With the stress of the semester coming to its peak, college students in Buffalo decided to unwind a bit with one of the most anticipated parties this fall.

On Nov. 12, hundreds of young adults from the University at Buffalo (UB), SUNY Buffalo State and other colleges decided to put down their books and highlighters in exchange for suits and heels. The “Trilogy” party was the place to be that Saturday night.

As people flocked down Herkimer Street, partygoers arrived at La Gourmet Empanadas with confused expressions. Many were surprised that the event was located at a restaurant, but once the doors opened, guests streamed in, wearing their best attire with high spirits and tangible excitement. Although no one came for the food, it became a pleasant two-for-one with partying and fresh empanadas.

The venue itself had an intimate atmosphere, with blue and purple lighting, and long black satin curtains. It was reminiscent of an old opera house. And benches accompanied either side of the walls, allowing guests to mix, mingle and enjoy the music.

Dreamchasers Entertainment (DCE) holds an all black formal event every year. But with the help of ticket sales and a bigger location, this year’s party promoting team aimed to make it better than ever. And while the party started out small, the amount of people grew minute by minute. What started as a few groups of friends socializing here and there turned into a full swing party by the end of the second hour.

Temitope Olalekan, a 2016 graduate of UB decided to continue the legacy of DCE – a group of young men who throw college parties – after his cousin graduated from the same university.

Before Olalekan came to Buffalo for school, he was warned about the party scene not being very college friendly. Dreamchasers had an established history with the older crowd at UB. They wanted to be known as an entertainment group that appealed to those from the New York City area.

“I was handed the throne,” Olalekan said. “I knew DCE was a family, but I had to continue the business.”

The process of executing such an event was divided into three main parts: choosing a venue, distribution of tickets and the separation of money. When picking a venue, it is essential to find a place that is eye-catching and safe. The structure of the venue plays a big role because it determines how many people can fit inside. As for the distribution of tickets, 200 were sold in advance and handed out among Buffalo colleges. When the event ends, everyone in the group deliberates about the venue as well as other expenses. Many costs are discussed, including the fees that cover the DJ, as well as speakers, and security. The Dreamchasers also discuss the projected profit, and how they can form new strategies for future events.

Levar Leys, a junior majoring in individualized studies at Buffalo State, and a member of Dreamchasers Entertainment, stood as the main man in charge of the door.

“The day of an event is very stressful,” Leys said. “Everything from the last minute errands to the lack of communication is very annoying. Everyone is focused on finishing things they’ve procrastinated for the entire time while planning for the party.”

With midterms, final papers and other college stressors, the all black affair was a necessity. The event gave people a distraction from their daily lives to get dolled up and put their energy into something other than homework. It also gave people the opportunity to have that one special night with their friends to unwind and simply party.

Alyssia King, a junior majoring in business administration at UB, attended the event, and had a great time.

“This party was another success,” King explained. “Dreamchasers know how to throw a party that reflects on all cultures and different types of music. It’s like being back home in Brooklyn partying with my friends. One of the reasons I love going to school here.”

Parties can be looked at as a hindrance towards one’s studies. However, sometimes college students need that break to realize there is more to life than essays and exams. While it is important to focus on one’s studies, it’s also crucial to take a night to off once in awhile and enjoy yourself.

“Being from New York City, the culture in Buffalo is different.,” Olalekan said, “The goal is to always have the same energy and have people feel like their customs are accepted when they party with us. DCE is more than a party promoting group, we are a family that chases our dreams until they become a reality. We like to give the students here in Buffalo the feeling that you can party and still stay on the right tracks of academia.”