Martinis, Matisse, and Memorable Moments: Recapping the Event of the Year
What do you get when you mix fabulous art, delectable martinis, and Clearwater’s most spirited crowd? You get Martinis + Matisse 2025, of course! Held on January 18 on the FrankCrum campus, this year’s event wasn’t just a celebration—it was the most attended Martinis + Matisse in history. With record-breaking crowds, plenty of surprises, and a whole lot of heart, it’s safe to say this was a night to remember.
Art, Cocktails, and a Little Chaos
The event promised a perfect blend of sophistication and fun—and it delivered, with a few unexpected twists. Guests mingled over expertly crafted martinis and mouthwatering bites while witnessing live wearable art and vying over some of the best pieces yet. But the real drama of the evening came when one guest took a tumble that required paramedics. Fortunately, the room was stocked with multiple ER doctors (martinis weren’t the only lifesavers that night), and the party carried on without missing a beat.
Love Conquers All (Even the Record Books)
Not to be outdone by the record-breaking attendance or the occasional spill, one couple that met at M+M added a heartwarming twist to the evening by getting engaged. After asking Haley Crum to hold the camera, with a backdrop of the iconic hanging martini glass, and an audience already raising their glasses, the proposal couldn’t have been more perfect—or better timed. Cheers to the happy couple for turning this already unforgettable evening into a true love story.
Meredith Reagin (former CFC staff member) and Brian James (dedicated cameraman at M+M) are tying the knot.
Cheers to a Great Cause
While the evening was filled with art, drinks, and a few plot twists, the real purpose of Martinis + Matisse was never lost. All proceeds from the event directly benefit the Clearwater Free Clinic, helping to provide essential medical care to the uninsured and underserved members of our community. With the record-breaking turnout, the event raised significant funds for our mission, proving once again the power of coming together for a shared cause.
A Round of Applause
We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, committee members, volunteers, and everyone who attended. Your support makes a real difference, and your enthusiasm for art and giving back is what makes this event such a success. Special thanks to FrankCrum for providing a stunning backdrop for this extraordinary evening. We couldn’t have done it without our restaurant and vendor partners, who made this event what it is (and allowed us to turn every dollar raised into $5 towards our mission through volunteerism and donated goods).
See You at golf on Cinco De Mayo!
With record attendance, a surprise engagement, and a little unscripted excitement, Martinis + Matisse 2025 exceeded every expectation. What surprises will be at our next event, the John H. Meek Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament bring?