Since 2010, Milani has been an enthusiastic and proud participant in Italian Day on Commercial Drive. Our staff and their families love taking in the festivities, vendors and incredible food!
When Milani first joined the Italian Day festivities in June 2010, we had no idea how big the event would grow to be. Our marketing manager, Venice, thought he’d be OK to blow up, tie balloons and hand out pens on his own – but quickly discovered this was not the case. The huge turnout was great for our exposure and getting to know customers, but horrible for his fingers! Trying to keep up with tying so many balloons turned out to be quite a challenge.
The event was such a success, however, and so much fun, we just had to keep going back! Every year Milani returned to Italian Day, we fine-tuned the booth (and brought more volunteers) and got to know our customers that much more.
Now, with a few years’ experience under our belt, about 15 staff volunteer 2-4 hours each to make the Milani booth a reality. This year we were able to hand out 1,000 balloons, about 800 Italian-inspired temporary tattoos to adults and kids alike, and brought Mario, who has become an Italian Day staple, to life for hundreds of people.
Grazie to everyone who attended Italian Day this year and stopped by the Milani booth just to say hi, grab a balloon or temporary tattoo, or entered the raffle to win a dinner for two to Federico’s. We love supporting and being a part of the local Italian community – Ciao!