Graduation Party season was a busy time of year for A Catered Experience (ACE) before the global pandemic put a screeching halt to large gatherings across Hawaii. The locally-owned catering company is pivoting while respecting the mandated social distancing practices with ACE’s first drive thru graduation party.
“This could be the new way to celebrate in Hawaii. I’ve seen it at homes where people have the tent, but some of the places I’ve been to, their streets are so small that it’s a little dangerous. This one, there’s a lot of room and makes it convenient,” said Ron Hattori, General Manager, A Catered Experience.
Guests of Rylen Nakgawa’s graduation party were greeted by a balloon arch at the Hawaii Okinawa Center Legacy Ballroom on Sunday afternoon. ACE served a bento of Kalua Pig, Laulau, Boneless BBQ Teriyaki Chicken, Chicken Long Rice, Lomi Salmon, Steamed White Rice and Haupia Squares to party guests. Guests were delighted with party activities in the parking lot while staying in their vehicles.
“I’m definitely going to remember this because it’s very special to me and it shows how flexible as humans we are, and how my family is.” said Rylen Nakawaga, Mid-Pacific graduate. “I’m very grateful to my mom for organizing everything and this venue for letting us have my party here. Also, I’m just grateful for all my family to help me celebrate this because I couldn’t do it without them.”
