Flanders Hotel in Ocean City, NJ Celebrates 100th Anniversary
As a photographer, I get to witness and preserve moments that tell stories, but every so often, an event comes along that feels like stepping into a storybook. Such was the case with The Flanders Hotel’s Centennial Gala in Ocean City, New Jersey. The iconic hotel, a beloved fixture of the boardwalk for 100 years, celebrated its storied past in true 1920s style.
The evening was nothing short of magical. Five hundred guests gathered to honor this historic landmark, many dressed in dazzling flapper dresses, sequined headpieces, and vintage suits. The Flanders’ grand ballrooms, already steeped in charm, were transformed into a scene that could have come straight out of the Jazz Age, with gilded decor, soft candlelight, and lively music filling the air.
From the moment I stepped into the venue, I could sense the deep affection the community holds for The Flanders. Mayor Jay Gillian was among the esteemed guests, mingling with attendees and speaking warmly about the hotel’s impact on Ocean City over the decades. Also in attendance was Peter Voudouris, the president of The Flanders Condominium Association Board, whose pride in the hotel’s legacy was evident.
Capturing the energy of the event was a joy. The dance floor buzzed with Charleston-inspired moves, and every table was alive with laughter and conversation. Guests toasted to the memories The Flanders has created and the many more to come.
Photographing this event was more than just a job; it was a journey through history and a celebration of a place that has meant so much to so many (including myself as a Flanders bride). The Flanders Hotel has stood as a symbol of elegance and hospitality for a century, and I’m honored to have played a small part in documenting this unforgettable milestone.
Here’s to another 100 years, Flanders Hotel—you’re truly one of a kind.
