International event planner Unik Ernest could have his pick of lavish venues across the city when it comes to planning his birthday celebration. But for the last five years, the philanthropist has left bottle-popping extravaganzas behind in favor of hosting galas for his charity the Edeyo Gives Hope Foundation.

Last night Ernest hosted the fifth annual Edeyo Gives Hope Ball to raise money for children in Haiti. In lieu of birthday gifts, Ernest encourages guests to donate to the Edayo Foundation, a charity that is "improving the future of children in Haiti by rebuilding dilapidated schools and providing students with a safe learning environment, as well as healthy food and water on a daily basis." 

Last night’s soiree kicked off at 7 p.m. at The DL’s rooftop. Guests were asked to dress in “carnival chic” attire -  women donned an array of orange, red and gold dresses while men sported white, green and blue suits.

Actor Boris Kodjoe and model/former Real Housewives star Kelly Bensimon co-hosted the event, making speeches about the foundation and encouraging guests to bid on silent auction items. Together with Ernest, the three philanthropists welcomed to the stage the evening’s honoree for his charitable contributions to the foundation; noted fashion photographer Nigel Barker.

According to Ernest, “Our 5th anniversary is a milestone, it’s very important for everyone to feel they have seen and witness the growth and the development of the foundation as it relates to its unique project.”

“We also want everyone to feel they have made a significant contribution to that growth and they are part of the empowerment and self-reliance of the children of Edeyo!”, said Ernest

The evening was sponsored by MEDEA vodka, AVION Tequilla, VOSS water, RADEBERGER beer, and VEEV hors d’oeuvres.