When Elaine La Personerie of Wink PR invited me to last night’s benefit for A Caring Hand (participating restaurants included Stuzzicheria, Macao Trading Co., and Tribeca Grill) I can’t say I was into it. While I love being invited to events, I don’t always enjoy attending them. So I said no—and not very politely, if I remember correctly. But I had never been to Tribeca Rooftop, and I was curious…. So I asked Elaine if I could take photos during the hour and a half prior to the event, when it’s all a bit messy and crazy and exciting. She agreed, even though they probably look like the event didn’t end up being as smooth as silk, when I have no doubt it did. On my way out, I told her that I had realized my favorite part of a party is indeed beforehand. “My favorite part is when it’s over,” she said—I suppose you feel differently if you’re the one throwing the party.

A Caring Hand helps kids and families cope with the loss of a loved one; it was founded in honor of Billy Esposito, who worked at Cantor Fitzgerald and he died on September 11, 2001.

The view from the dance floor.

Arranging the lights.

An army of glassware.

The guys from Sprig restaurant.

Marcony's chef and helper at work.

Tribeca Grill's desserts.

Coordinating the silent auction.

One of the items to be auctioned.

The band plays a sound check...

...and afterward, the crew takes a break.

Best DJ booth ever?

Just one slice of the eponymous rooftop.