The Renaissance era was a golden age in terms of art, architecture, and philosophy. A sold-out event organized by Humber College Fashion Arts and Business and Baking and Pastry Arts Management students evoked some of the same grandeur from the era with a Gothic, and chocolatey, twist.  

The Gothic High tea event allowed students to showcase their fashion design, culinary art and event management skills. The event was organized, managed, and executed by the Fashion students under the guidance of mentor and program coordinator Jennifer Reitano. The Baking students, under the mentorship of professor Kenneth Ku, complemented the event with their culinary creations.  

The students displayed Gothic-themed garments and fashion accessory designs, mannequins dressed in chocolate clothing and accessories as well as innovative desserts. The high tea tables were decorated with repurposed wine bottles holding flowers and candles. There were also a variety of treats for guests to enjoy including edible chocolate tea stands, croissants, fruit salad, key lime pie, macaroons, chocolate tarts and éclairs.

Guests also enjoyed a Gothic-themed photobooth with props such as eye masks and vintage fascinators.

Faculty of Media and Creative Arts student Juan Racines and mentor David Neumann created projection mapping techniques to display on the mannequins. It created a shimmering glitter effect that impressed many of the guests.

College dignitaries and campus influencers all attended the event while the students had an opportunity to connect with industry representatives to help grow their professional network.  

Humber alumna Rafa Chapti spoke at the event to inspire students and shared her diverse experiences and journey as an entrepreneur.  

The Gothic High Tea was supported by its sponsors – the Longo Faculty of Business, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Plato’s Closet.