Some of My Most Favourite People in the community are long-time activists and community champions, like the very caring Deb Parent (who I recently discovered is also a kick ass DJ), and event expert and impresario, Mary Lou Borg, who is as delightful as she is a genius at throwing the best, classiest, and most lavish parties for women in town.

So, when I heard back in late 2016 about them teaming up to put on a “Tea Dance”, I was naturally intrigued and excited, and when I heard that the party is open to men, I rushed to get my tickets and get a friend to join me for an afternoon of fun. We certainly were not disappointed; Salon Sunday was a BLAST. This is a mixed party, for a mixed crowd at one of the most gorgeous venues in Toronto, Palais Royale, that you can imagine partying at.

Hello Deb, how much fun has this Salon Sundays party been for you?

This party has been an exciting return to my biggest passions: music and dancing!

What made you decide to do this?

I was missing that community energy, connecting with old friends. and I was beginning to feel like the only time we met in groups was at funerals!

What vibe and crowd should one expect as they make their way to Palais Royale?

The vibe is a fantastic mix of energetic, relaxed fun, with some spicy heat in a gorgeous venue!

What will be playing on the turntable?

Given the age range in the room, I’ll be playing all the dance hits of the past 4 decades. The soundtrack of our lives, with some current favorites thrown in to keep us hip.

You are going to take a little break for summer. You do plan on coming back?

Absolutely – I will be staying in town a little early summer so I wouldn’t miss the INSPIRE Awards on June 2nd! After that I am fortunate to be doing some travelling throughout the summer until the fall, then back for Salon Sunday 4 on October 22nd.

Okay, let’s get Mary Lou to chime in here. How are you enjoying working with Deb on this?

Deb and I got the idea from an afternoon wedding at Palais Royale of two friends. Seeing everyone dancing in the afternoon and having so much fun, was the inspiration for bringing a “modern” Tea Dance to Toronto. So, our Salon Sundays were born. A very laid back casual afternoon of friends, cocktails and dancing, while Deb plays great tunes. I really enjoy working with Deb. Her enthusiasm is infectious and she’s a great DJ.

Mary Lou, where would you like to see this party go?

It’s fun to be working with someone I’ve known and admired for years. Deb is a real leader in our community and I’m proud to be producing these events with her. It’s something not being done in the LGBTQ community and it has turned out to be really popular. I’d like to see this party open to our entire LGBTQ community and friends. All inclusive. All together.

How does one get tickets? Stay in touch? Etc.

You can get tickets on TicketWeb, Palais Royale or Copy Cat Reproductions on the Danforth. $10.00 in advance 15.00 at the door. April 30th from 2-5pm is all about Salon Sunday, the place to be for a fabulous afternoon. You can stay in touch by visiting the Palaise Royale website.

About the Author

Antoine has on numerous occasions said that everything he does is "a love letter to the LGBTQ community". and he truly loves this community. A 29 years' media and marketing leader, Antoine is the publisher of theBUZZ, The Pink Pages Directory, PinkPlayMags, and a magazine for Durham Region families The Local Biz Magazine, and is the host of talk show "On the Couch". On his off time he is usually involved in community organizations and causes.