Enlarge Guest mingle at "Jazz on the Lawn" at VanLandingham Estate.

Posted: August 29th, 2010 Lashawnda Becoats

On a warm summer evening, more than 150 people gathered in East Charlotte at the historic VanLandingham Estate.

No, it wasn’t for a wedding.

Instead, it was the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce’s first “Jazz on the Lawn” event at the beautiful estate. Normally held in Uptown, the event was put together to help promote and celebrate the diverse businesses and people on the east side of the city.

“We see this as an important diversity and inclusion strategy,” said Keva Walton, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Diversity at the chamber. “We are growing a chamber that is more inclusive.”

As musicians performed popular jazz tunes on the patio, guests had the opportunity to explore the vast gardens on the five-acre estate. Some mingled and swapped business cards, while others sipped on cocktails and tasted the delicious food. Sushi, shrimp and grits, pimiento chicken salad and white chocolate cheesecake were some of the dishes provided by local restaurants including Hissho Sushi, Newk’s Café, Hope Haven and Café Monte.

“I would definitely attend this event again,” said Tony Zhang. “It provided such a wonderful atmosphere and it was relaxing. I got a chance to meet new people and the food was wonderful.”

Speaking of food, up next for East Charlotte, on October 7, is the much-anticipated “Taste of The World” restaurant showcase. The event will feature a guided tour for patrons to sample authentic cuisine from Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

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