Co-founder of the prestigious Signature Grand banquet hall, Arlene Pecora continues to serve as a Sales Executive for the company. Largely due to her dedication and expertise, the facility has gained a stellar reputation as one of South Florida's premier catering and reception facilities, once generating up to $10 million in annual revenue.
One of the facility's biggest annual events is the Bridal and Quince Show, the region's most comprehensive wedding extravaganza. This year, the show will be held on April 28, 2009, when Mrs. Pecora and her staff will host dozens of South Florida's finest wedding vendors. Future brides, grooms, and their families and friends will be able to:
- Sample delicious gourmet food and wedding cakes from elaborate catering stations
- Enjoy cocktails, champagne, and wine from one of several open bars (with Three Olives vodka served from an ice carving!)
- View professional flower arrangements from the finest local florists
- Enjoy a variety of music from talented musicians and DJs
- Check out the latest cutting-edge wedding photography and cinematic videos
- Explore luxurious limousines on display
- See the latest chic bridal gowns and formal attire
- View artistic wedding stationery
Since it opened in the 1990s, the Signature Grand has been the venue for some of the region's finest black-tie events, fundraisers, receptions, corporate conferences, and ceremonies. Located in the town of Davie, Florida in Broward County, the sprawling, 100,000-square-foot mansion is distinguished by its salmon-colored exterior and charming design that calls to mind a 19th-century, Spanish-style hacienda. Over the years, Mrs. Pecora and her catering team have hosted dozens of noteworthy politicians and celebrities, including presidential hopeful George W. Bush.
About Arlene Pecora
An alumnus of Nova Southeastern University, Mrs. Pecora has taken part in dozens of charitable volunteer activities, serving on dozens of different boards and committees over the years. Below is a summary of some of her philanthropic endeavors:
United Way of Broward County: Mrs. Pecora is one of only 100 contributing members of The Tocqueville Society, Broward County's United Way chapter. Founded in 1984, The Tocqueville Society is dedicated to improving the quality of life in neighboring communities through altruistic efforts. Mrs. Pecora also participated in the United Way Mayor's Gala, helping to raise more than $500,000 for non-profit community programs. In 2006, she was named one of the local United Way's Outstanding Volunteers.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County: This organization was launched to help provide safe, productive activities for the area's youth. Arlene Pecora donated her time and resources to help set up The Cattleman's Club, a fundraiser designed to educate and entertain local children with ranching activities.
Community Foundation of Broward: Mrs. Pecora served as grant chairperson for this organization, which works to foster philanthropic efforts to benefit local community causes.
Women in Distress: As a board member of Women in Distress, Arlene Pecora has worked to help educate Broward County's judges, attorneys, and business leaders on the state of community issues.
Boys & Girls Club: As a committee member from 2001-2007, Mrs. Pecora helped plan the Signature Grand Ghoul to raise awareness and funds for the local Boys & Girls Club. To commemorate her work, she was presented with the Limited Edition National Award Winning Piece of Art in 2003.
One Community: As a 2008 Silver Medallion Honoree and Partner for Justice Sponsor of One Community, Arlene Pecora has worked to promote diversity, understanding, and acceptance throughout the Broward County community.
Nova Southeastern University: As an alumnus of NSU, Mrs. Pecora has contributed generously to the growth and development of the campus. Her philanthropic efforts led to the launch of The Michael and Arlene Pecora Hospitality Pavilion, a modern food court and dining area in NSU's new University Center.
Florida Atlantic University: As an active member of FAU's Broward County President's Community Council, Arlene Pecora has helped raise awareness of FAU's local branches, encourage interactivity among staff and students, and raise the quality of education offered at the Broward County campuses.
Broward County First Ladies Award: Arlene Pecora was recognized with this designation in 2004, honoring her community contributions in business, charity, education, government, and media.
Balance Magazine Board of Directors: Balance Magazine is a sophisticated quarterly publication dedicated to promoting the personal and professional success of local women, helping them find a healthy balance between work and family. Mrs. Pecora served on the magazine's founding advisory board to help make the original vision a reality.
Circle of Friends of the Alvin Sherman Library: As an alumnus of Nova Southeastern University, Arlene Pecora was pleased to serve on the board of Circle of Friends, a group dedicated to building a library of intellectual resources at the university's Alvin Sherman Library, Research and Information Technology Center. Mrs. Pecora was instrumental in the creation of the "NSU Glass Garden," a series of creative sculptures commissioned by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
Over the years, Mrs. Pecora has received an array of awards to commemorate her philanthropic and community-enriching work. Among the long list of organizations that have recognized her include The American Cancer Society, Schott Communities, Ann Stork Center, American Express Travel Auction, Prestige Club, and Boys and Girls Club.
To purchase tickets to the 2009 Bridal and Quince Show at the Signature Grand banquet hall, call (954) 424-4000 or visit their website, www.thesignaturegrand.com. Admission is $22 if paid in advance and $30 if paid at the door.
