FLINT, Michigan — The third annual ‘Toast’ event put on by Beats x Beers happens this weekend on Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Flint Institute of Arts (1120 East Kearsley St). From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., partygoers will experience brunch in style inside the 2nd largest art museum in Michigan, complete with food, music, and lots of laughs from this year's host, comedian/actor DC Young Fly.
Flint native Brandon Corder, founder of
Beats x Beers, has surprised his hometown with a slew of famous guest appearances over the years — from major music artist Wale to platinum producers Just Blaze and Jazzy Phae — and now the growing CEO is adding DC Young Fly to the roster of celebs.
"DC was not a part of our original plan, I will admit," said Corder. "However, the opportunity fell in my lap and it just made perfect sense. I attended the Soul Train Awards this year and he was a presenter there, and he did an amazing job. Even at that time, I didn't have him hosting 'Toast' in mind, however, when I got the call for him to attend, my mind immediately went back to that Soul Train Awards moment and it all made perfect sense to me. In addition, it's huge to have him here in the city as he is at [the] top of his career and is one of the funniest comedians of today!"
Food for 'Toast' will be provided by Chef K Smith, Chef Brandon Dewayne, and Chef Quay of
Spectacular Spudz with a cash bar available for cocktails. The afternoon soundtrack will be provided by DJ Handelz, and every guest at the event will leave with a gift bag from
Gift of Life Michigan and a custom 'Toast' wine glass, courtesy of
LightSky Farms.
The flyer for 'Toast.'
A new addition to the event this year is 'The Toast Awards' which will highlight community leaders and game changers in Flint, an idea Corder has wanted to implement for some time.
"'Toast' was created to celebrate this year's success and also a celebration going into the new year," said Corder. "It makes perfect sense to "toast" to a few individuals who have been doing the work throughout the community this year and in previous years."
"Also, I think it encourages others to work hard throughout the year to receive these awards next year. It's like an extra incentive for people to go hard."
The categories for "The Toast Awards" are the Icon Award, Game Changer Award, Leadership Award, and Community Impact Award.
When asked what he's looking forward to the most at 'Toast' this year, Corder said he was excited to see the outfits and vibes from partygoers while also introducing the FIA to newcomers.
"I'm excited for people to come to the Flint Institute of Arts as we have the 2
nd largest art gallery in Michigan, and a lot of people still never stepped in there before. I'm excited for it to be an amazing experience overall for everyone."
Tickets to 'Toast' are $75-$130. To purchase yours, visit: eventbrite.com/e/toast-tickets
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