Galentine’s Day in Atlanta took on a whole new meaning as ONE/35 Agency transformed The Gathering Spot into an immersive, multi-sensory experience that blended luxury, entertainment, and robust conversations. More than just an event, this was a celebration of sisterhood, storytelling, and self-expression, anchored by an exclusive advance screening of Apple TV’s “Surface” Season 2’s first two episodes, starring Gugu Mbatha Raw.
When guests arrived, we were invited into a space designed to delight the senses. The evening began with an intimate fragrance bar by My Signature Scents, where attendees crafted their signature scent handpicked from 10 exquisite fragrance notes to — a personal and unforgettable keepsake. The air buzzed with excitement as women explored scents that reflected their individuality, making this experience one of the night’s standout highlights.
The culinary journey was just as thoughtfully curated, offering a menu of elevated passed hors d’oeuvres alongside a trio of bespoke cocktails — each inspired by “Surface”:
“Below the Surface” – a mysterious, bold concoction
“Frosted Illusions” – crisp and layered with depth
“Eternal Flame” – a fiery tribute to resilience and reinvention
Atlanta guests enjoy a memorable night
Guests indulged in a branded cupcake bar, choosing from decadent flavors like chocolate, key lime, strawberry, and vanilla bean — a sweet touch that made the night even more memorable.
Then came the main event—a special introduction by Kathleen Bertrand, the esteemed founder of BronzeLens Film Festival, who set the stage for an electrifying preview of “Surface” Season 2. As the lights dimmed, the audience was drawn into the unfolding mystery, wholly immersed in the show’s gripping narrative.
But the evening didn’t end with the final scene. Instead, it evolved into a powerful dialogue about the evolution of women’s roles in storytelling. A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring:
Elon Johnson – Vice President of Development at Tyler Perry Studios
Reece Odum – Actress, producer, and director
Kathleen Bertrand – An industry leader and advocate for diverse storytelling
The conversation dove deep into how women’s stories shift beyond the male lens, exploring how nuanced, complex female characters reshape the landscape of film and television. The discussion sparked something profound — many attendees lingered long after, engaging in thought-provoking exchanges that extended the magic of the evening.
This wasn’t just an event — it was an experience, a movement, and a moment of connection. It was a space where storytelling met self-expression, where Black women were celebrated not just as consumers of media but as creators, visionaries, and curators of culture.
As guests departed, they carried more than their custom fragrances — they left with a sense of empowerment, inspiration, and a shared excitement for the future of women in film.
