The Story of Jared’s Luau

In 2016, Rebekkah Rosado started Jared’s Luau in memory of her little brother Jared Serra. Jared was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when he was only 14 and on December 2, 2016, at the age of 16, he passed away. Everyone around him knew him as one of the smartest, kindest people they’d ever met. He always thought of others before himself, remembered everyone’s birthdays and could figure out any piece of technology in a second.

As the owner of Runway Events, Rebekkah decided she wanted to create an event that would exemplify the light that Jared brought to the world as well as carry on his legacy of kindness and generosity. During one of Jared’s many treatments, their family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH), an incredible organization that provides a peaceful and comfortable place for families in a time of need. Rebekkah felt that giving back to RMH would be a great cause that Jared would stand behind 100%.

In November of 2018, Rebekkah was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma - the same disease Jared fought. This year, we allocated half of the proceeds of Jared’s Luau to Rebekkah’s medical bills, but what was even more important than the financial assistance, was the feeling that she was surrounded by people who are with her every step of the way. After two unsuccessful rounds of chemotherapy, Rebekkah recently received a stem cell transplant and we are so thankful to report that on June 23, 2020 she received her first clear scan in two years.

The past two Jared’s Luau charity events have been incredible and have raised a total of $5,000. This year, we were so overwhelmed and humbled by the incredible community we have and the fact that we raised just over $5,000. It was truly the best year yet. Thank you to everyone who supported, donated and attended Jared’s Luau!

Runway looks forward to next year, which will continue to be in memory of Jared, and also show our love and support to the Ronald McDonald House and Rebekkah.

Jared’s Luau 2020 Charity Event

Take a look through the photos below, beautifully captured by The Lemons Photo.

Guests were welcomed with THE cutest trailer, provided by Paradise Cove! They checked in, received their Lei, and were able to purchase raffle tickets to win an amazing giveaway from Buena Vista Watersports. Once checked in, guests were invited to mix and mingle over complimentary drinks, thanks to My Bar Service and Pat’s Liquor Leaf & Wine, while enjoying passed hors d'oeuvres by Arthur's Catering and Events.

One of the featured fundraising opportunities was our fabulous silent auction which included donations from Kendra Scott, Orlando Magic, CORKCICLE., and many more. Their awesome contributions helped us reach our unprecedented $5,000 goal. There were also limited edition Jared’s Luau 2020 shirts for sale to remember the night and support the cause. Thanks to Leslie Vega for the design and Art by Matos for the production.

Jared’s story is an important one and the best part about Jared’s Luau is that it allows new people to become a part of the story every year. Rebekkah Rosado stepped up to share what inspired her to start the event and Angela Cohen from the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida shared more about the impact their donations would have. Frankie aka Frank Rose emceed the event and curated the vibes with his infectious personality.

Farida with Florida Candy Buffets created a mouth-watering dessert display. Their spread looked great and tasted even better. She just knows how to capture the vision and create something truly special.

Anna Cakes graciously provided the customized cupcakes. Each sugary snack was truly a treat as well as a delicious tribute to Jared’s sweet tooth (he would have tried every single one of them).

Arthur's Catering and Events brought the flavor in a big way! The Make-Your-Own Poke Bowl Station was a highlight, as guests built delicious, fresh dishes that perfectly suited their tastes.

Espresso Events served up the caffeine with espresso and nitrogen gelato that kept people hype throughout the night. They’ve elevated the coffee game to an artform.

ShutterPro Photo Booth gave everyone something to remember the night with their funky photoshoot options.

There was some incredible entertainment throughout the night. Kenny Kings El Timbalero kicked things off with his amazing, one-man percussion performance.

Free Daps gathered the crowd and created freestyle raps about them. Every guest became a part of their live, improvised hip-hop concert.

No Luau is complete without a dinner show featuring hula and fire dancers. Thanks to Aloha Productions Luau Inc!

A party is only as good as it’s soundtrack and Our DJ Rocks kept the dance floor full all night! Thank you DJ Stasia and DJ Jennie for rocking with us all night.

The Runway Events team always loves creating a unique, memorable aesthetic every year with the help for incredible vendors. Thanks to Do Tell Stationery and Designs for our stunning Jared’s Luau Sign and Thank You Vendor Sign. Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals provided the tables, hedge walls, stunning clear chairs and black whicker patio furniture. Over the Top Rental Linens provided the linen. The Runway Botanical Floral Fairies also put together some lush floral displays and we added the finishing touches with pieces from our Runway Collection.

The Runway Events Team and Serra Family genuinely want to thank all of the sponsors who went above and beyond to be a part of Jared’s Luau. Many of these vendors have been a part this special event since the beginning and, for that, we are forever grateful.