SOCIETY TEXAS | March/April 2020 by societytexas

MARCH / APRIL 2020

THE NEW ROMANCE

Spring's Most Inspiring Fashion Ever PERFECTLY PROVENCE

CROWN & GLORY

VOTED MOST POPULAR

SUN-KISSED GLAM

Why France Beckons You Right Now

Chic Parties, Gowns , Debs & Escorts

Miss Texas Chandler Foreman

Timeless Palm Beach Personified

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mar/apr

features

2020

104. IN FULL BLOOM

Flowers mean the renewal of spring...and that means scaling the heights of high fashion as the weather turns warmer. Slip into some of these chic looks as you saunter into this magical time we all love. Photography by Mark Oberlin Styling by Dion “Bleu” Drake

114. AXE MARKS THE SPOT

The South of France always beckons us, especially with the charms of Provence. Join us as we sip and savor our way through this five-star getaway. By Rose Betty Williams Photography courtesy of author’s own archival.

122. COURTING GLAMOUR

The magic of historic Palm Beach never wanes. It’s allure remains as timeless as ever as we explore the sights and sounds of this tony destination, starting with the fabled Brazilian Court Hotel. By Rob Giardinelli Photography courtesy of Brazilian Court, archival

FLOWER CHILD

Dress by Marchesa Notte, $795, at Julian Gold. Choker, $80, at The Jewelry Bae.

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

SAN ANTONIO

AUSTIN

NEIMANMARCUS.COM

departments

26. contribute

It takes a village to create this magazine and our digital media platform, SocietyTexas.com. Here’s a look at some of the many talented dynamos who make it happen as we dive into 2020’s robust spring.

30. editor’s letter

Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director Lance Avery Morgan shares his always optimistically sunny disposition for the happy new decade ahead.

32. exhibit

Looking for more culture as spring begins? Rev things up by taking a look at some offerings from our state’s finest museums and cultural institutions, according to our arts arbiter Leanne Raesener. Todd Oldham, Cocktail dress and skirt, 1996. Silk ribbon. Texas Fashion Collection, University of North Texas, Gift of Todd Oldham Studios

Courtesy of Rizzoli USA

40. celebrate

We toast fashion icon Julian Gold’s 75th Diamond Anniversary and look back at their past success, as well as what makes the store so timeless.

48 46. browse

The best books for spring are here, as our resident bibliophile Lance Avery Morgan shares his very favorite selections for you to enjoy.

48. glow

Our beauty insider Ana Bribiesca Hoff recommends the best new make-up trends for a fresh start in the spring ahead.

50. admire

Tori Johnson, of ThesToriBook.com, has a passion for all things blue, the Pantone Color of the Year. Since all things blue are a huge trend this year, she shares some of her recommendations.

Julian Gold store, San Antonio, 1950s

52. divulge

Chandler Foreman loves being Miss Texas America 2019. Here, she shares inspiring facets of her life to inspire you.

Chandler Foreman, Miss Texas 2019

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

departments Crescent Club at Crescent Court, Dallas

54. present Ms. Etiquette Expert Sharon Schweitzer, J.D., offers insight into life’s most challenging social situations, so take note to handle these more effortlessly.

56. pursue

56 58. list

Want to learn more about the things happening nearby...and around the world? It’s here and we want to share them with you.

Emanuel Ungaro and model, 1980s

With so many spring style choices and trends to decipher, Rank & Style’s CEO Jamie Chandlee makes it easy by sharing her favorites that might add more Zen to your hectic life.

60. entertain When it comes to entertaining, there is always something to look forward to

these days. Our resourceful etiquette expert Jay Remer takes a look at some helpful reminders to enhance your next event. Alfa Romeo 4 C

62. create There were few fashion designer favorites at the level of Emanuel Ungaro, as our stylish reporter Gordon Kendall weighs in on his colorful legacy.

64. drive Our man on the road Michael Satterfield, of TheGentlemanRacer.com, shows us what’s behind the wheel of the sporty Alfa Romeo 4C as it zooms into being an automotive style icon. Maverick Whiskey Distillery Restaurant, San Antonio

66. savor Our editors Lesa Rossick (Austin), Cynthia Smoot (Dallas), Jennifer Roosth (Houston), and Eleanora Leeper Morrison (San Antonio) are on the scene with their favorite new discoveries across the state.

70. marketplace

Calvin's Fine Jewelry, Austin

A look at the new events, people, places, and things that we have on our

76. host John Paul and Eloise DeJoria open their home and hearts for their annual holiday extravaganza in Malibu.

78. invite San Antonio’s German Club debutantes make a splash to celebrate their myriad of themed parties.

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

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r.s.v.p.

96 SAN ANTONIO Kate Dawson, Courtney Smith and Claire McNab

84 AUSTIN Jenny Mason and Francie Little

R.S.V.P. Our introduction to the must-see social events across the state...and the world.

84. AUSTIN The Center For Child Protection gala

86 AUSTIN Andy Roddick and Brooklyn Decker

86. AUSTIN The Andy Roddick Foundation gala

88. AUSTIN The Kindness Campaign event

90. AUSTIN The Seton BCRC–ZTA luncheon

92. AUSTIN The Pease Park Foundation event

94. DALLAS The ReuNight gala

96. SAN ANTONIO

94 DALLAS Chuck and Lindsay Jacaman

The Southwest School Of Art gala

98. HOUSTON The Museum of Fine Arts gala

130 SAN ANTONIO Mills and Angelica Palm

100. SAN ANTONIO The San Antonio Zoo event

102. DALLAS The Unlikely Heroes event

126. HOUSTON The Houston Area Women's Center gala

128. DALLAS The Access Information Network event

130. SAN ANTONIO The San Antonio Public Library Foundation gala

132. HOUSTON

126 HOUSTON Debbie and Rudy Festari

130

SAN ANTONIO Kathy Kelleher, Cathy Nixon Atherton and Liecie Hollis

88 AUSTIN Erin Thornton and Andra Liemandt

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation event

136. ATTEND Senior Social Editor Rob Giardinelli recommends the very best events across the state for you to support.

128 DALLAS Ana Pettus, Ken Weber, Heidi Dillon and Brian McCulloch SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

132 HOUSTON Bill King and Hallie Vanderhider

FOR LOVE. FOR LIFE.

available at

MARCH/APRIL 2020

PUBLISHER Rossana Leeper

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Rob Giardinelli

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lance Avery Morgan GRAPHIC DESIGN Beast Creative Agency Edy Hernandez, Alexis Pedregon & John Speer SENIOR SOCIAL EDITOR Rob Giardinelli ASSOCIATE EDITORS Tori Johnson • Leanne Raesener • Jennifer Roosth Cynthia Smoot • Jonathan Spindel • Rose Betty Williams DIGITAL DIRECTOR Eleanora Morrison DIGITAL MARKETING Lesa Rossick WRITERS

Ana Bribiesca • Jamie Chandlee • Lori Duran • Jake Gaines • Rob Giardinelli Tori Johnson • Gordon Kendall • Lance Avery Morgan • Eleanora Morrison Leanne Raesener • Jay Remer • Jennifer Roosth • Michael Satterfield Sharon Schweitzer • Cynthia Smoot • Jonathan Spindel • Rose Betty Williams PHOTOGRAPHY

Jenny Antill • Jonathan Alonzo • Danny Campbell • Chris Cantoya • Gregg Cestaro Dion “Bleu” Drake • Pricilla Dickson • Thomas Garza • Greg Harrison Kelly Jo Johnson • Landers Photography • Matt Lanke • Jeff Lofton • Jenna Beth Lyde Christina Murphy • Sam Pags • Wilson Parish • Marcus Perryman • Haley Plotkin Ben Porter • Jacob Power • Mark Oberlin • Daniel Ortiz • Tyler Schmitt Celeste Smith • Quy Tran • Jason Voinov SOCIETY AMBASSADORS Natalie Bond Bloomingdale–Los Angeles Paul Bradshaw–San Francisco John Danielson–Washington, D.C. NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ADVERTISING Rossana Leeper, Publisher Rossanaleeper@Gmail.com 210.861.3324 Rob Giardinelli, Assoc. Publisher Rob@SocietyTexas.com 512.740.7534 Society Texas is published bi-monthly by Society Texas, LLC (Publisher). Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of the Publisher. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or its staff. Society Texas reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Society Texas does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial, nor does the Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher. All real estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familiar status or national origin, or an intention to make such preference, imitation, or discrimination. Printed in the USA. PUBLISHED BY Society Texas, LLC 1101 West 34th St. #262 Austin, Texas, 78703 210.459.2227

To Subscribe & Digital: SocietyTexas.com

ON COVER: IN THE PINK OF THINGS Top by Marchesa, $1245.00. Skirt by STAUD, $240. Both at Julian Gold. Shoes by Stuart Weitzman $950. Available at Stuart Weitzman.

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

NEW SPRING/SUMMER

contribute JAMIE CHANDLEE

As a busy working mom of two, Rank & Style CEO Jamie Chandlee developed a strong passion for technologies that simplify consumer experiences, so people have more time for the parts of their lives not behind a screen. She contributes our List column in each issue and her vision is for Rank & Style to give people back the time they waste digging through endless fashion resources to find the products they like. Chandlee is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and is grateful to be able to help people outside the office through her participation in social impact organizations including The Seton Fund, MJ&M, Dell Children’s Council, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, UT College of Natural Sciences and Human Ecology and the Longhorn Foundation.

DION “BLEU” DRAKE

Dion “Bleu” Drake is a fashion stylist with almost a decade of experience working in celebrity, editorial, advertising, and personal styling. Over the years he has honed his skill by working with celebrities, athletes, and publications such as Elle and Italian Vogue. Originally from Detroit, moving to the west coast afforded him the opportunity to be infused with fashion and culture from a very young age. He proclaims his inspiration for his keen style aesthetic is anything edgy and glam, allowing Drake to create dynamic images that will forever be cemented in editorial history…as in this month’s fashion cover feature.

EDY HERNANDEZ

Edy Hernanez, Beast Creative Agency's founder, decided to take the idea of the traditional agency and turn it on its ear. Res ipsa loquitor. Or better said, let the problem speak for itself. The Beast process addresses your marketing challenges with creative thinking. Solving those challenges is our jam. We have frequently helped our clients with their own nonmarketing related internal processes simply through a fresh perspective and ideation.

ANA BRIBIESCA HOFF

Writer and enthusiast of all things beauty, fashion, travel, and healthy living-related, our Glow beauty contributor Ana Bribiesca Hoff is currently working in the higher education non-profit sector and launching AnaBribs.com. In this new lifestyle blog, she plans to share her passions, experiences, tips, and sneak peeks inside her life while hoping to share large doses of inspiration. This month she reveals the most glamorous of beauty secrets yet.

TORI JOHNSON

Tori Johnson, who contributes to our luxe gift feature in this issue, is the founder of sTORIbook Public Relations and a fashion and lifestyle blogger of ThesTORIbook.com. She is also a successful commercial and editorial stylist. Johnson has been voted San Antonio Fashion Blogger of the Year and has worked with a bevy of top names including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Lancôme, Armani Exchange, and many more.

LORI DURAN

Lori Duran has had a diverse career and currently researches interesting historical stories of social changes. This has been her life-long passion. Duran serves on the board of directors for the Austin History Center Association where she is involved coordinating volunteers and helping the Oral History Committee. She also writes articles for Society Texas and other publications, and recently authored the book, Austin’s Travis Heights Neighborhood. She is currently finishing her second book, The University of Texas at Austin: The First One Hundred Years.

JAKE GAINES

GORDON KENDALL

Whether finding the best restaurant in Rome overlooking the Colosseum or taking a private tour of the Queen’s art collection at Buckingham, our cultural enthusiast and arbiter Jake Gaines, a native Texan, is on the go. Our very own James Bond on the social scene, he will gladly wield his saber to pop open a bottle of Champagne before advancing into a masked ball. His motto? Bring your passport and wear the tuxedo since one never knows what may happen next. He’s a beloved guest at any dinner party and is known for his disappearing tablecloth trick. When in doubt, he recommends everyone into the pool for a midnight game of what else? Marco Polo.

Our very fashionable Texan-turnedNew Yorker-turned eternal Southerner contributor Gordon Kendall is always on the go and on the scene. He is a freelance fashion author and educator and helms our exclusive story on his experience in Italy and why so many Texans love it. He is also an executive member of Fashion Group International/New York, a member of The Couture Council, and The Museum at F.I.T.

ELEANORA MORRISON ROB GIARDINELLI

Certified professional life coach and branding expert by day, social commentator by night and author of the book Being In The Room (available at Amazon.com), Associate Publisher and Senior Social Editor Rob Giardinelli is a man of many interests. Giardinelli himself is involved with several philanthropies and loves sharing how Texans so generously and passionately give back to the community they love. He weaves in interesting social commentary that showcases the many who work tirelessly to raise awareness of important issues in the state.

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

Creative Director and digital media personality Eleanora Morrison is a native of San Antonio. She has over a decade of experience as a print and digital editor, and became a digital creator in 2015. ELEANORA, her award-winning independent digital media platfor m entertains, empowers and unites its community through largerthan-life storytelling and inspired creative content, connecting with audiences throughout Texas and beyond. Follow along on social media @eleanoramorrison and at EleanoraMorrison.com.

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contribute M A R K O B ER L IN

MICHAEL SATTERFIELD

O ur feature ph o to g r a p h er fo r th i s i s s u e’s f a s h i o n ed i to r i a l c over s to r y i s L o s A n g el es -b a s ed M a rk O b erl i n . O b erl i n h a s a l s o ph o to g r aph ed the c o l l ec ti o n s o f m any o f th e Wes t C o a s t’s to p f a s h i o n d es i g n er s. H e i s a n a c c l a i m ed p a i n ter, a s wel l , a n d h as ex h i bi ted h i s p a i n ti n g s i n L o s A n g el es, N ew Yo rk C i ty a n d Sa n Fr a n c i s c o g a l l e r i es. M o re o f h i s wo rk c an b e fo u n d at M ark O berl i n Ph o to g r a p hy. c o m .

Our Drive section contributor is Texan Michael Satterfield, an award-winning journalist, traveler, photographer, and lifelong automotive enthusiast who has been featured in Forbes, Hot Rod Magazine, A-Cars, Easy Riders, and many other publications. He founded popular men’s lifestyle site TheGentlemanRacer.com as a blog in 2002, which has grown to become an online and print magazine reaching hundreds of thousands of readers every month.

SHARON SCHWEITZER

LEANNE RAESENER

Sharon Schweitzer, J.D., is a cross-cultural trainer and modern manners expert. She is the resident etiquette expert on two popular lifestyle shows: ABC Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend and CBS Austin’s We Are Austin. Her Amazon #1 best-selling book on International Business, Access to Asia: Your Multicultural Business Guide, now in its third printing, was named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books of 2015. She’s a winner of the British Airways International Trade Award at the 2016 Greater Austin Business Awards. Photo by Korey Howell.

Our Associate Editor Leanne Raesener was formerly the city editor for both Brilliant and The Society Diaries magazines. Although, a fifth-generation Texan who was raised in Austin, she spent most of her career in Manhattan, before we were fortunate to have her back in the Lone Star State. After working at Goldman Sachs in Charitable Giving for many years, it only deepened her interest in philanthropy. She supports many charities but holds most near and dear to her heart, her brother Jack Frederick Raesener’s Scholarship Fund, Ballet Austin, and NYU Faces. Her love of life, generosity, creative style, and wordsmithing are a winning combination.

CYNTHIA SMOOT

A partner at Gangway Advertising, Dallas-based Cynthia Smoot, creates buzz for some of the city’s hottest brands through interactive social media strategies and public relations for the firm’s lifestyle clients. She is the go-to resource for what's happening and who you need to know in Dallas. Through her popular lifestyle blog, OhSoCynthia. com readers get the latest scoop and inside information on fashion, food, philanthropy, events, and celebrity and reality TV news. Smoot describes her blog as “a love letter to the city of Dallas” and enjoys taking readers along for the ride as she experiences all that the city has to offer.

JAY REMER

Jay Remer, Canada’s Etiquette Guy, catered his first dinner party at the age of 14 and hasn’t looked back since. Raised in Wilmington, Delaware, Remer emigrated to Saint Andrews, NB, Canada, where he owns and operates The Windsor House, an 18th Century inn. A proud graduate of the Protocol School of Washington, Remer now speaks, writes, and teaches civility. His book, The Six Pillars of Civility, is scheduled for release this year.

JENNIFER ROOSTH

Our talented and terrifically connected Associate Editor Jennifer Roosth is a Houston-based writer who never ceases to be amazed by the wonderfully generous spirit of the Houston philanthropic community. “It’s nice to live in a city where so many are excited about giving back,” she says, “In the process, they throw some mighty fine parties.”

JONATHAN SPINDEL

Jonathan Spindel is a native Austinite with a global appetite for arts and culture. When he’s not searching the world for the best trends to share with our readers, he can be found at local art galleries, music venues, and hip happenings around the capital city. He reports on all that makes us proud to be part of Texas society and is inspired by the unique individuals and organizations he engages as our Associate Editor, highlighting the happenings that bring the best to, and make the most of, our great state.

ROSE BETTY WILLIAMS

LESA ROSSICK

Founder and CEO Lesa Rossick of Austin based Market Ambassador, loves to build brands and empower entrepreneurs of large corporations in their digital marketing presence. In addition to website development and content marketing, she dines at the hottest new restaurants to find Top 20 experiences for her Keep Austin Eatin’™ blog, contributes to our Savor column, and supports Society Texas with her digital media talents. Outside of business, Rossick’s biggest passion is working alongside her husband Bill in their philanthropy efforts.

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

Wherever there is a wonderful party, there is usually Associate Editor social chronicler Rose Betty Williams. This month she writes about a five-star jour ney to Provence, France. She also leads symposia, plans events, serves on boards, and supports organizations from OperaAmerica to the Helping Hand Home for Children and facilitates networking for project and product development. Williams is a longtime Austin resident, freelance writer, and photographer with a passion for fine art, music, wine, books, tennis, food, and life…and a deep love for her family and community.

MAR/APR 2020 Society Texas Inspiration Board

editor's letter

with a spring in our step AS I WAS SEATED AT THE SAN VICENTE BUNGALOWS IN LOS Angeles recently, with time in between our photoshoots that took months to converge into what you see in this issue, I had a thought. Really, several thoughts. Looking around me, it’s obvious the individuality sought at the city’s hottest private club is robust...and the security is tight, based on its celebrity clientele. Everyone there wants to feel special, and the club does just that for its members. So much so that their strict no photo-ormembership-is-suspended policy conjures up thoughts about what people are really seeking these days: feeling unique and special. So, what if we could meld our favorite, uniquely special things into one city, much like we have melded our favorite things across the state into this one magazine? We could take the climate from over there, the restaurants from here, many of the creative people from yet just over there, and so on, to form our ideal environment. It’s merely a pipe dream until time travel and artificial intelligence come fully into our spectrum. Until then, we will continue to make a concerted effort to keep blending and combining the uniqueness that Society Texas’ print and digital platforms offer to continue to be the very best we can be as we progress with warmer weather. Around here, we love spring. Simply can’t get enough of it. Not that Texas winters are so harsh or that we longingly wait for ice storms to dissipate, yet there is something that makes us eager to jump in, full throttle, after a brief winter respite, into all things springy. Like exploring all-new fashion, travel, learning about new faces and places, seeing philanthropic events reimagined, and so much more. That, good friends, begins with our optimistic cover this month. Full of life and the freshness spring represents, thanks to our extended team of photographer Mark Oberlin and stylist Dion “Bleu” Drake, who made our

vision of spring’s fashion come alive page after page. Much like Rose Betty Williams serves her fly on a champagne glass point of view as she seemingly grabs us by the arm and takes us along to her favorite stops in the Provence region of France that she loves so much. Similarly, Rob Giardinelli brings the warmth, literally, of Palm Beach to life so much so that shortly after reading, you may want to book a flight to jet there. Then there is our dizzy array of events we have curated from around the state to help organizations tell their stories in a format that they deserve to inspire us all. Our talented editorial, publishing, creative, and design teams make the special experiences we covet come to life here and in every issue, and we are a better publication because of each of their talents. So, it seems that spring makes us a bit sentimental, too, in our gratitude for others who help us make this look so easy. Our words, imagery and actions, we well realize, have the power to uplift or diminish. We choose the high road because the view is better. Ever grateful and always thankful for your support and largesse, we hope you enjoy having us with you as you dive into spring’s clear pool of the future making it as spectacularly special as you desire. First one into the pool... XO Lance Avery Morgan Lance@SocietyTexas.com

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

Photography by Gregg Cestaro

exhibit

cutural advantages

The best plays, musical performances, and exhibits in Texas are enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Leanne Raesener who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.

Courtesy of Harry Connick, Jr.’s official website and The Long Center

austin

HERE’S TO THE CROONERS While Harry Connick, Jr. is the definition of a multi-talented star, the foundation of his art has always been his music. Enjoy an evening with this bayou renaissance man and his band for an intimate performance of songs from his impressive new record, True Love: A Celebration of Cole Porter, as well as classics from his remarkable career. March 10.At TheLongCenter.org.

SOMETHING TO WISH FOR Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Alladin; the hit Broadway musical. This timeless story is a thrilling new production that is filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. March 11-22. At TexasPerformingArts.org.

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

Evening Dress, Valentino Garavani. Photo courtesy of the Bullock Museum in collaboration with the Texas Fashion Collection, College of Visual Arts & Design, University of North Texas.

Courtesy of Deen van Meer.

WOMAN POWER The Fashion Forward exhibit at the Bullock State History Museum explores the evolution of style and how we think about clothes, all through a Texas lens. Discover the historical and cultural context of garments from some of the fashion world's biggest names. Create your own looks at a fabric draping station and strike a pose on the runway. Through April 12. At TheStoryOfTexas.com.

exhibit dallas/fort worth

Guido Reni, Atalanta and Hippomenes, c.1620-25, oil on canvas. Photo courtesy of the Capodimonte Museum in Naples

EXTRAVAGANTLY SEDUCTIVE The special exhibition, Flesh and Blood, will feature nearly 40 masterpieces from the Capodimonte Museum in Naples. These incredible paintings are a journey through the Italian Renaissance and Baroque periods. Such extraordinarily beautiful scenes can be moving or imposing, violent, extravagant, or even seductive. On view March 1―June 14. At KimbellArt.org.

Freida Kleinsasser, Thirteen Year Old, Hutterite Colony, Harlowton, Montana, 1983, Gelatin silver print, Richard Avedon (1923–2004). Photo courtesy of Amon Carter Museum of American Art.

www.keepaustineatin.com LOCAL AUSTIN EXPERIENCES

REVOLUTIONARY SCULPTOR The Meadows Museum and The National Gallery of Art (Washington, D.C.) present Alonso Berruguete: First Sculptor of Renaissance Spain (c. 1488– 1561), the first major U.S. exhibition dedicated to the Spanish sculptor who emerged as 16th century Spain’s most innovative artist, revolutionizing Spanish art. March 29―July 29. At MeadowsMuseumDallas.org. Alonso Berruguete (Spanish, c. 1488–1561), The Sacrifice of Isaac, 1526–1533. Painted wood with gilding. Museo Nacional de Escultura, Valladolid. Image © Museo Nacional de Escultura, Valladolid (Spain). Photo by Javier Muñoz and Paz Pastor.

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MASTERFUL CLICKS Looking In: Photography from the Outside takes an in-depth look by six influential twentieth-century artists: Richard Avedon, Morris Engel, Laura Gilpins, Dorothea Lange, Danny Lyon, and Paul Strand, who navigated their role as “outsider” differently, raising complicated questions about perception, representation, and power. Through May 10. At CarterMuseum.org..

Revel in the Hill Country.

Indulge your family in a vacation experience above all others. From the emerald fairways overlooking the Texas Hill Country, to our unrivaled kids club and rejuvenating Loma de Vida Spa, you’ll make memories that last. Book your spring vacation today. LaCanteraResort.com | 210.558.6500

exhibit houston LET FREEDOM RING Perfect as a reminder for these political times, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, presents Norman Rockwell: American Freedom, an exhibition devoted to Rockwell’s iconic depictions of FDR’s Four Freedoms—Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Fear, and Freedom from Want. Houston is the fifth venue for the acclaimed exhibition’s seven-city tour organized by the Photo courtesy of Norman Rockwell (1894-1978), Freedom of Speech, 1943. Illustration for “The Norman Rockwell Museum. Saturday Evening Post,” February 20, 1943. Photo courtesy of the collection of the Norman Rockwell Through March 22. At MFAH.org. Museum © 1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Licensing,

Courtesy of Houston Grand Opera

Courtesy of Michael Murphy

SHE ALWAYS GETS WHAT SHE WANTS R. Strauss’s compelling psychodrama Salome returns to the Houston Grand Opera for the first time in 20 years in a production directed by Francisco Negrin. The revolutionary score reinvents Oscar Wilde’s biblical drama of a deeply disturbed princess who has fallen in love with Jokanaan (John the Baptist). April 18―May 1. At HoustonGrandOpera.org.

A BRIGHT STAY Broadway’s Come From Away is a Best Musical winner across North America. This New York Times Critics’ pick takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of 9/11’s 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. March 3–8. At TheHobbyCenter.org.

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2019–20 SEASON

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AN OPERA REIMAGINED Experience Mozart like never before in Barrie Kosky and Suzanne Andrade’s imaginative spectacle. Pairing silent-film aesthetic with captivating and interactive projections, you won’t want to miss this refreshing twist on the beloved classic.

713-228-6737 | HGO.ORG/MAGICFLUTE Patrick Summers, Artistic & Music Director Margaret Alkek Williams Chair

Perryn Leech, Managing Director

Sarah and Ernest Butler Chair

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tracy williams c o ntem por ary ar tist

san antonio VICTORIAN RADICALS The McNay Art Museum’s new exhibit, Fashion Nirvana: Runway to Everyday features iconic and innovative garments plus video art from the 1990s—a decade that’s known for revolutionizing the fashion and art worlds. It features designers including Oscar de la Renta, Gianni Versace, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford, and more. Through May 17. At McNayArt.org.

T R ACYW I L L I AMS CO NTEM PORA RY. COM @ TR ACYWILLIAM S A RT

Victor Costa, Wedding Dress, 1992. Silk satin, net, rhinestones. Texas Fashion Collection, University of North Texas, Gift of the Estate of Doris I. Dixon, 1996.016.002.

THE MAGIC OF CLAY AND FIRE This ongoing focus installation, The Magic of Clay and Fire: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics, is now in its second rotation, featuring sixteen new works that showcase unique shapes, techniques, and glazes. Through April 22. At SAMuseum.org. Miyashita Zenji, Japanese, 19392012, Ki no jôshô (Rising Air), 2004, Stoneware and colored clays bands with clear overglaze; h. 19 ¼ in. (48.9 cm); w. 12 ¼ in. (31.1 cm); d. 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm), Collection of Susan L. and C.J. Peters, Photography by Richard Goodbody.

Courtesy of Shen Yun

Pink Lagoon 36 x 48

tracywilliamsart

See available works at tracywilliamscontemporary.com 38

A HEAVENLY GIFT Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away. March 27-29. At TobinCenter.org. s

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EXHIBITION ON VIEW AT McNAY ART MUSEUM THROUGH MAY 17, 2020. From gowns to grunge, Fashion Nirvana: Runway to Everyday features over 60 garments by famous designers Dior, Tom Ford, Jean Paul Gaultier, Carolina Herrera, Patrick Kelly, Isaac Mizrahi, Todd Oldham, Oscar de la Renta, Vivienne Tam, Gianni Versace, Vera Wang, and more. Fashion Nirvana: Runway to Everyday is co-organized by the McNay Art Museum and Texas Fashion Collection at the University of North Texas, curated by Kate Carey, Head of Education; Jackie Edwards, former Assistant Curator; and Lauren Thompson, Assistant Curator; and assisted by Alexis T. Meldrum, 2019-2020 Semmes Foundation Intern in Museum Studies. Major support is provided by Mercedes T. Bass, Mercedes T. Bass Charitable Corporation. Additional support is provided by the Host Committee, chaired by Alice Carrington Foultz.

mcnayart.org 6000 North New Braunfels | San Antonio, Texas 78209

celebrate

(Clockwise, center): Julian Gold storefront, San Antonio, 1950s, Julian Gold ad of Anna Miller designed by Bill Blass, 1957, Julian Gold Accessories Dept., 1950s, Julian Gold fashion, Julian Gold San Antonio, 2020,

happy diamond anniver sar y When vintage was new, it was an era of unprecedented glamour in San Antonio for Julian Gold, the go-to style locale for the region’s chic and beautiful. When it began 75 years ago, Julian Gold provided high style sophistication for the city. Here’s Lance Avery Morgan's look back at the way grand style used to be...and continues to this day with their diamond anniversary.

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celebrate

From left: Julian Gold Bridal, Julian Gold, Lingerie and Dress Dept., 1950s, Julian Gold Fashion

IMAGINE A WORLD WHERE EVERYONE, ALWAYS, WANTED to be as beautifully dressed as possible. It wasn’t that long ago when hats, scarves, gloves, coats, and cloaks were just some of the accessories that were de rigueur during the time between 1935 and 1965, which represented the hallmark era of a fashionable Texas, and in particular San Antonio. Think The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Mad Men as a way of life. Every single day. After WWII, the retail world existed in the downtown and nearby areas of cities where one would go to shop, work, dine, and be entertained. Seeing archival photographs of the era, one can only imagine walking down the streets of these metropolitan areas when it was apparent then that the residents took pride in their appearance and dressed to impress.

business. This was called finishing an outfit, along with wearing the right matching bags, shoes, and jewelry. A few of the exceptional retailers in the downtown and surrounding areas of the San Antonio area were Frost Bros., The Vogue Shop, Joske’s, and Julian Gold. While Frost, The Vogue, and Joske’s, among others, are distant memories, the San Antonio based luxury shop, Julian Gold, is firmly planted in the city’s style DNA today as it celebrates its 75th anniversary. And, what a tribute to its supporters and management team to steer its growth over almost eight decades. Julian Gold Bridal is a destination for families seeking the most elegant dresses for that special day. Plus, the store has plenty of designer accessories, shoes, jewelry, and beauty finds to complete each ensemble.

In fact, being fashionable was a requirement and created a strict style standard that rarely rebelled. Fashion thrived, and the community was consumed and appreciated the retail-wonderland of its independently owned stores and boutiques. It was high-end or the highway. One shopping mecca of San Antonio was rooted in the downtown area of Commerce and Houston streets. Signature familyowned department stores ruled the retail world, which allowed these stores, and the families who owned them, to have a prominent place within the city. In order to fuel their fashion needs, residents would take buses, shuttles, or streetcars, if they didn’t have their own transportation, from neighborhoods into the shopping hub. Based on the weather of the season, many well-dressed women wore hats, large and small, complementing the outfits to add more than a spark of originality. Gloves were a daily necessity, whether for shopping, tea, or

When it was established in 1945 on McCullough in the city’s tony Olmos Park neighborhood, it was a revelation. It wasn’t quite the suburban store that would dot American cities in the 80s, and it didn’t have the hustle and bustle of a downtown shopping experience. It was the friendly, neighborhood upscale store that generations of women would come to rely on over the decades. In fact, Julian Gold remains committed to delivering Texas women an array of designer clothing and shoes. “Originally, we sold only suits, dresses and coats,” said Robert Gurwitz, the company’s leader emeritus. “We didn’t carry sportswear until the early 1960s, and before that Julian Gold mainly sold pants, blouse lines and dresses. Sportswear and separates really came along in the 60s.” The founding principles for the shop were “service, fashion, and more service,” and the stores continue to thrive in three locations across Texas–San Antonio, Austin, Corpus Christi and Midland. cont'd...

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celebrate Julian Gold, Austin

Julian Gold Bridal

We recently caught up with Julian Gold CEO James Glover to learn more about the store’s secret to success: Why do you think Julian Gold has had such success over the last 70 years? It’s our people. We are fortunate to have a staff that genuinely loves what they do and what we stand for as a company. Our turnover rate is less than 3%, well below the industry average, and I think that is a testament to how well we work together and the environment we strive to create for our employees and our clients. We also make every effort to offer a level of service beyond expectations. In-store and beyond, we want our reputation to be one that people admire and respect. And that extends from Texas to Europe as we travel to find the best the industry has to offer. What are some of the changes in retail you’ve seen since you’ve been with Julian Gold? Most notably, the growth and change of digital and social media platforms and how that technology influences the industry. Having said that, we work to offer the best personal experience, and while we embrace the change and understand the importance of digital media channels, our focus has remained unchanged. We offer the highest level of service through impeccable attention to detail and personal relationships. We want our clients to trust that when they walk through our doors, they will have access to the best selection of merchandise with the highest level of service. For us, technology is a tool to draw people into our stores because that in-store experience is what sets us apart.

Bridal brings us the opportunity to build new relationships and to be part of a celebratory and joyous time in someone’s life. We know our bridal salon must be exceptional, both in the experience and selection. We exclusively offer some of the biggest names in bridal (Carolina Herrera, Monique Lhuillier, Reem Acra), and we have an expert alterations staff to ensure that once the dress is selected, we will make it perfect. And when the wedding is over, we hope the bride comes back for all of life’s other celebrations. Why does Julian Gold’s attention to quality make a difference to your client?

Julian Gold CEO James Glover

Describe for us the Julian Gold woman–who she is, what she does, and where she goes? The Julian Gold woman is someone who appreciates the phone call. She values service, quality, and personal relationships. She is generational. From teenager to great grandmother, we are here to provide a true, elevated shopping experience, and our client is the woman who holds that in high regard. She knows that when she comes in, we will make sure she is taken care of from head to toe. We put an extreme amount of effort in supporting our clients and our communities because what is important to them is important to us.

Why is the Julian Gold bridal department so important?

When your alterations staff has over 500 years of combined experience, when your sales associates personally deliver to your home, when we have your flat tire changed in the parking lot while you shop, you know you are getting the very best service possible. When our buying team travels from Paris to New York to find the best merchandise and our commitment doesn’t stop there. We have no rule book. Our rule is to do whatever it takes. Help a client organize her closet. Deliver her alterations to her office. Personally, drive a wedding dress five hours across the state to make sure it arrives in pristine condition. For us, quality begins with our people. Glover goes on to share, “We hope our clients enjoy our business as much as we do. Retail is an exciting industry, and we are fortunate to have had a high level of success for the past 75 years. We respect our industry, but most importantly, we love and respect our clients who allow us to do what we do.” s

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literally gorgeous With spring in the air, there is a spring in our step, too. We can’t wait to explore the season’s new faces, places, and spaces, as recommended by our bibliophile Lance Avery Morgan. THE BOOK OF DREAMS By Federico Fellini This is a highly colorful journey into the boundless territory of a film director genius's imagination. It is a work that added a fundamental element to the study of Federico Fellini and his creative experience from the late 1960s until 1990, based on his prolific diaries. $115. At Rizzoli USA. YOU’RE INVITED: CLASSIC, ELEGANT ENTERTAINING By Stephanie Booth Shafran From a chic dinner in the city to a Pucci pool party, this will give you inspiration for entertaining throughout the year―from flowers and table settings to color-coordinated menus and themes. $50. At Rizzoli USA. DECORATE HAPPY: BOLD, COLORFUL INTERIORS By Anthony Baratta Baratta’s work allows his clients (and himself) to smile every time they open the front door and come home. Now you, too, can experience that joy through immersing yourself in twelve of his homes of varying scale, location, and purpose. $45. At Rizzoli USA. DIANA VREELAND BON MOTS: WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE EMPRESS OF FASHION By Alexander Vreeland This volume is devoted to the musings of Diana Vreeland, the one-of-a-kind star in the fashion firmament who left her prescient, edict-filled mark on magazines, the Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute, and a generation (or two) of dedicated followers of fashion. $35. At Rizzoli USA. LIVING IN PARADISE By Annie Kelly & Tim Street-Porter Want to get away from it all to find a serene oasis? This book brims with the best tropical residential designs in Bali, Java, and Thailand for both travelers and interior design lovers alike. $60. At Rizzoli USA. THE ICONIC INTERIOR By Dominic Bradbury & Richard Powers Featuring one hundred of the most spectacular interiors across the world, this richly illustrated overview spans the entire twentieth century. $35. At Thames & Hudson USA.

GARDEN DESIGN MASTER CLASS By Carl Dellatore This is sure to be the expert gardener’s go-to guide. With 100 essays and topics by 100 leaders in the garden design industry, it’s full of sumptuous photography and is destined to become a true library must-have for the design community. $60. At Rizzoli USA. SIGNED: BESPOKE INTERIORS By Sybille de Margerie The scion of Paris’ Hotel de Crillion is an interior architect who embodies a quintessential French touch. Her flawless elegance, subtle sophistication, and opulent innovation coupled with a reverence for French artisans provides an unparalleled eye for detail. $50. At Rizzoli USA. POPO DANES: BALI INSPIRED By Popo Danes The work of one of Indonesia’s most celebrated architects, both in his native Bali and around the globe, is explored in this lush volume of tropical paradise creations. $50. At Rizzoli USA. CLASSICISM AT HOME By Alireza Sagharchi Loaded with design inspiration, this is the first book to feature the precisely detailed, sumptuous architecture of Stanhope Gate, one of the finest firms working in the classical style anywhere. $80. At Rizzoli USA. MAD ABOUT THE HOUSE By Kate Watson-Smyth Like chatting with a design friend, this easyto-use interior design dictionary answers all those questions you wanted to solve but were too afraid to ask. In addition to sharing her Top 10 design hacks even shows you how to get the lighting right in every room. $29.95. At Rizzoli USA. DESIGN FIX By Cortney and Robert Novogratz The designing T.V. personalities offer up in-depth advice for a multitude of decorating situations using more than a dozen of their projects as shining examples. This book is the perfect resource for any spring/summer home renovation project. So, what are you waiting for? $45. At Rizzoli USA. s

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glow LAYERS OF PINK Let the pink stand out even more by applying a cream blush first and then layering a bright pink powder blush for a whimsical flush that pairs perfectly with your floral prints. Try Sulwhasoo Radiance Blusher in Pink Harmony. $55. At Neiman Marcus.

SUBTLE THAT LIP This season’s understated lip brings a refreshing twist on the classic. For a wash of soft, dreamy color, choose a glossy lip stain for a shiny barely-there lip that bumps up the cool factor. Try Tom Ford Lip Gelee in Maldives. $55. At Tom Ford.

GLITTER, THEN GO Hello glitter, we meet again. The trans-seasonal glitter trend offers us a perfect edgy-chic look for this season. Apply a thick black eyeliner and smear gunmetal glitter under your lower lash line. Try Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner in Gunmetal, a buildable, superfine glitter for all the glitz and glam! $21. At Sephora.

LIQUID WHITE A liquid white liner is oh so fresh and so chic! Finish with long and fluttery lashes for a sharp and crisp, 60s inspired look. Try Dior Diorshow Liner Star. $30.50. At Saks Fifth Avenue.

SUPERNATURAL GLOW Matte who? The all-over-gloss effect is here to stay with skin that glows with a wet-effect luminous finish. Try Clé de Peau Beauté Le Sérum for radiant, brighter, softer, and intensely hydrated skin. $295. At Neiman Marcus.

1980s make-up ad

shiny happy people This season use vivid colors and brighter-than-bright shine to highlight your individuality and create mesmerizingly stunning looks. Embrace the season’s renewed 80s energy and step out of your comfort zone, recommended by our beauty expert, Ana Bribiesca Hoff. FLASH THOSE BABY BLUES A pastel blue eyeshadow will be your trendy go-to this season. Sweep a pale shade across lids and lower lash line with a fluffy brush for a soft, playful, and oh so dreamy look. Try Dior Glow Vibes Limited Edition Couture Eyeshadow Palette in Blue Beat. $63. At Neiman Marcus.

OVERDRAWN SAPPHIRE EYES Blue is on everyone’s radar. Try an unexpected and overextended winged cat eye with a highly pigmented metallic finish. Dab some blue glitter on top for extra drama and a full sapphire effect. Try Stila Shade Mystère Liquid Eyeshadow in Psychic. $24. At Sephora.

LAYER THE OMBRE For something new, try a multicolor ombre eye with a highly pigmented color combo. Our favorite is a gold, yellow, and orange gradient, three beautiful shades found in the Natasha Denona Sunset Eyeshadow Palette. $129. At Sephora.

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HEAD-TO-TOE GLOW Bling-worthy diamond powder, amaranth oil, and squalane deliver a weightless finishing mist for shiny hair, healthy shine and a head-to-toe bod-glow. Try OUAI Hair and Body Shine Mist. $25. At Neiman Marcus.

YEARS BE GONE The chic Austin-based Elevé Cosmetics is the award-winning full line of nontoxic, beautifully nurturing cosmetics that highlight your true beauty without harmful additives. You’ll want the whole skincare system. Prices vary–collection shown is $245. At ElevéCosmetics.com

A N T O N I O

B O T A N I C A L

G A R D E N

May 13, 202

Splendor in the Garden

Celeb ra ti n g 40 years o f the Bo tanical Garden FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SABOT.ORG/SPLENDOR

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true blue

Pantone’s color of the year, Classic Blue, is bringing a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit. This spring season, you’ll spot the rich blue hue all over the runway, red carpet, home designs...and abroad. Our style guru, Tori Johnson of ThesTORIbook.com, is sharing all the ways you can incorporate this color into your daily life. INTO THE DEEP BLUE Classic Blue took over the season’s runway. From solids to textures, designers showed off their creations highlighting this year’s favorite color. Carolina Herrera’s Spring 2020 collection featured the shade using whimsical florals, plaid, and abstract fabric designs that are must-have additions for every wardrobe. At Neiman Marcus. Photo courtesy of Vogue. DINNER UNDER THE STARS As part of their 10th-anniversary collection, the L’Objet’s Lapis round platter takes serveware to the next level. The design mirrors the infamous Mediterranean skies along with a luxurious, hand-gilded 24K gold trim. $550. Photo and availability courtesy of L’Objet.

SWIRLS OF SAPPHIRE

SPRING SWIRL

These stunning studs from de Grisogono’s Chiocciolina Collection are sure to stand out among the rest of your fine jewels. The earrings feature an 18K-white gold setting along with icy diamonds and brilliant sapphires. $15,600. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

Equal parts flirtatious and irreverent, the Mary Short Kaftan in Jaipur is an airy, festive dress with oversized ruffled sleeves, a flouncy hem, chic scoop neck top, and optional belt. We envision wearing it to a wedding, luncheon, or special dinner, can’t you? $995. At Ala von Auersperg.com.

PATTERN’S NEW PLAY

SWIVEL IN STYLE Looking for that living room statement piece? Haute House’s Gia swivel chair is equal parts functional and fashionable. $3,799. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

BLUE JINLU

This Salvatore Ferragamo silk scarf with baroque-style prints offers the perfect pop for any ensemble. $395. Photo and availability courtesy of Ferragamo.com.

Jean Shrimpton, 1960s

This original oil painting by Cheng Jinlu is the perfect addition to any modern home. Each work is painted by hand, so no two paintings will be identical. $2,770. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

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CAVIAR, ANYONE? Transform your skin with natural caviar extract in La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Luxe Cream. Their breakthrough science and ingredients help enhance firmness and elasticity to help turn back the years. $505. Photo and availability courtesy of La Prairie.

FUR SURE THRONE Pooch sleepovers just got easier with this luxurious trundle pet bed. With crushed velvet upholstery, your four-legged friends will feel right at home. $1,699. Photo and availability courtesy of Haute House.

BLOUSON BEAUTY Erdem’s Tabetha silk-organza maxi dress is perfect for afternoon spring weddings and garden parties. With a plunging neckline and tiered skirt, this dress is sure to be a crowd favorite. $5,795. Photo and availability courtesy of Net-A-Porter.

RAFFIA SLIPPER From the office to happy hour, these Malone Souliers Jane raffia loafers can take you all around town. Mix up your typical workwear combinations with this pop of color and texture. $625. Photo and availability courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman.

MEDITERRANEAN ESCAPE Why not get lost amongst the blue domes in Santorini, Greece, this spring and summer? Oia offers breathtaking architecture and celebrity-approved hotels. Popular accommodations include Canaves Oia Suites and Adronis Luxury Suites. Photo and availability courtesy of Conde Nast Traveler. ALL ABOUT AGATE Wow your guests the next time you entertain with this pure solid, silver-plated agate bowl from ANNA New York. Use it as an elevated serving dish or as an accent piece in the kitchen. $475. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.

CLASSIC CRYSTAL Baccarat’s magnificent crystal creations make the perfect gift any time of year. This extra-large Eye Vase reflects gorgeous blue shades from every angle. $12,500. Photo and availability courtesy of The Menagerie, Austin. Reneé Zellweger in Armani Privé, 2020 Golden Globe Awards

MARCH/APRIL 2020

divulge

as right as reign The reigning Miss Texas 2019, Chandler Foreman, is everyone’s cool girl ideal. The fact that she represents the Lone Star State is even better. Here, she catches up with her former Miss Texas Judge Lance Avery Morgan so that we can learn more about this dynamic young lady.

CHANDLER FOREMAN

Rome's Trevi Fountain

My style icons are...Zendaya, Beyonce, Janelle Monae (sometimes), and Yara Shahidi. I love being Miss Texas America because...This crown helps me fulfill my purpose of inspiring our future leaders. Encouraging youth is what I love, and having the opportunity to impact or enlighten someone is my ultimate joy. My perfect day would begin by...Waking up on a yacht, having a traditional breakfast (with grits), and a small yogurt parfait, with Moonchild playing in the background. I made my first dollar by...Losing a tooth and that was paid in quarters, and after that my very first job was working at La Madeleine. The last thing I binge/marathon watched was...Good Girls. A book that left a lasting impression on me had to be...Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality. I recite at least four of his quotes daily. His passing and legacy have heavily impacted my motives. Good Girls. Courtesy of NBC

On my bucket list to do soon is...Travel internationally for the first time. I’ve always wanted to visit Rome, the romantic city, because I’m obsessed with its amazing architecture and history. What woman should try in her lifetime is to...Be a titleholder. The average girl never considers competing because they imagine a beauty queen and believe there are specific beauty standards. However, it goes beyond physical appearance, and is more about your heart and ambitions. The personal benefits and professional development gained through competing can directly affect your future success. Something nice I did for myself recently, because, hey, why not is...Yoga. After I experienced a tragedy, I became stagnant. I woke up one morning and decided, “I want peace and do not like being in this mental space.” Twenty minutes later, it’s Namaste. Zendaya. Courtesy of MTV

The beauty essential you’d have to pry out of my cold, dead hands is...Any moisturizer.

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355 E. Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78209 grovehillltd.com | 210.525.8080

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why good taste matters

As we begin the spring social season, it is the perfect chance to master more social opportunities. Our Ms. Etiquette Expert, Sharon M. Schweitzer, J.D., is always on the scene to lend stellar insight into any modern conundrums that may arise. Dear Ms. Etiquette Expert, What’s the best way to pay a genuine compliment to a colleague without it seeming like I am too friendly, or worse, a participant in sexual harassment? Gent at The Office Dear Gentlemanly Behavior, An unintended consequence of the #MeToo movement is that many men are unsure of how to interact with women in the workplace. The headlines highlight all the wrong behaviors without mentioning any positive actions. In a perfect world, men will compliment women for their work accomplishments, as opposed to their appearance. Until we reach that pinnacle, the workforce is left in a conundrum with questions about whether it’s appropriate to compliment a new hair design or jacket. So, consider this approach: “Great plaid coat.” or “Slayed that new haircut.” It’s best to avoid commentary about someone’s body, wardrobe suggestions, or your emotions and feelings about their looks. Dear Ms. Etiquette Expert, Since its spring gala season, can you please settle a bet? I say that if we are guests at a host’s table at a non-profit event, we are obligated to buy a silent or live auction item to support our host’s cause. My wife says no. What say ye? Gala Going Dear Gala Goer, One theory supports your wife’s position that hosts invite guests to charitable events with the hope that they will develop an interest in the charity that blossoms into building a donor relationship–without an expectation, that guests will buy an auction item or write a check that evening. When a host invites someone, there isn’t a fee for accepting. The host’s gala table covers all guest costs unless a prior agreement is made to purchase the table seat. The charity may request a contribution with an auction or compelling verbal appeal. However, a substantial portion of their revenue is earned through table sponsorships. As a guest, if you’re feeling generous,

contributing will please your host. Consider the alternative: if an auction item purchase is always expected, then potential guests may be tempted to decline fundraising invitations, or worse yet RSVP yes and then decide to stay home the night of the event. The alternative position is that accepting an invitation obligates the guest to donate at the charity event. Some argue that the donation was already made, and the guest is offered the tickets as a “gift” because a percentage of the ticket price covers the event costs. Therefore, the host has the right to expect the guest’s support with a donation for the ticket value (or an amount they can afford.) These hosts believe that the guest's contribution demonstrates the guest’s thanks and good faith and allows the guest to secure a reciprocal opportunity to call in the favor later for their own cause. Sounds complicated, doesn’t it? Dear Ms. Etiquette Expert, My dear friend, who is on a tight budget, yet loves to support the community, often asks to borrow and switch gowns. Not only do I not want to, since we’re close, yet different sizes, but also want to retain my individual style. How do I politely refuse? Gowned & Ready Dear Gowned For Glory, Setting healthy boundaries with friends and family is a life-long endeavor. New requests seem to arrive daily to borrow clothing, attend expensive soirées, or host events. Remember that people-pleasing is also known as "the disease to please." Saying yes when it’s healthier to say no can cause resentment that undermines a friendship. Avoid doing this disservice by saying no since gowns are investments to you. By declining, one can protect the gown’s investment. A stained gown can ruin a friendship. Consider responding to her request with "thanks for the offer to exchange gowns, what a compliment. However, I don't lend my clothing to anyone." Offer an alternative such as shopping online or going gown shopping together. Avoid implying a lack of trust–instead remind her that you're typically a generous lender of sporting equipment ("Yes, absolutely you can borrow my golf clubs"), but gowns and clothes are off-limits. s

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best in class Where to go and what to see is something on-the-go Texans are always seeking. Join our inveterate cool hunter Jake Gaines as he recommends some of the best choices around.

NOW, SEE HERE GLCO glasses are a favorite of the fashion and music worlds, and has opened a new store on South Congress in Austin. The store's focal point is the lighting system, incorporated into the design as homage to the rich artcentric culture of Austin–inspired by the work of artist James Turell. Prices vary. At GarrettLeight.com. Crescent Club at Crescent Court, Dallas

REGENERATE & RENEW The new West University locale of ThriVe Drip Spa is the premier luxury lifestyle spa destination in Greater Houston. It’s the place to be for space-age renewal treatments like I.V. therapy, Cryotherapy, B-12 and lipo shots, and EmSculpt. Plus, the Houston Texans, and Rockets players, as well as wellness buffs, often visit the spa. At ThriVeDripSpa.com.

CLUB NOUVEAU When it opened in the early 80s, the Crescent Club at the Hotel Crescent Court was the place to be. It is again, as the membersonly 17th-floor space renovation embraces the existing club’s traditional French craftmanship while bringing an all-new character to the dining areas, its conference rooms, and iconic bar. At CrescentCourt.com.

Cyrotherapy at Thrive Drip Spa. Photo by Michael Anthony

YOU OUTTA BE IN PICTURES Need a new headshot for a social media profile? Or, might you want a family portrait just for the heck of it? Why not get a high-quality photo in a 30-minute session that you can book online. The nation-wide service by Shoot is now available in Austin. At Shoot.com.

EURO SO MODERN As the newest addition to Austria’s federal museum landscape, Albertina Modern, the second exhibiting venue of the Albertina Museum in Vienna, will open with the exhibition The Beginning. Art in Vienna, 1945 to 1980, which will be the first-ever complete overview of an era of Austrian art that encompasses those three important decades following 1945. At Albertina.au.

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Albertina #1 Larry, 1893. By Robert Longo. At Albetina Modern

NOW HEAR THIS Whether strolling the beach or indulging in a day of shopping, enjoy the 20-plus hours of Bluetooth® playtime, and the smallest fit ever of these cool wireless JLab Audio headphones. Available in colors, enjoy the dual connect, touch sensors, and auto on and connect out of the case to keep you on the go in style. Prices vary at JLabAudio.com.

list

spring’s new zing

With warmer weather fast approaching, getting spring-ready with chic accessories is a priority, according to our luxe lifestyle arbiter Rank & Style CEO Jamie Chandlee, who has her Top 10 recommendations in mind for the season.

Photo by Slim Aarons. Courtesy of Jonathan Adler

SHORE ENOUGH Each handcrafted Agua Bendita (which means blessed water) Calista swimsuit is impeccably designed and cut from luxurious fabrics in laser-cut textures and lively colors, yielding a collection with a youthful, happy vibe. We love dramatic black best.$110. At ShopBop.com.

MORE FUN IN THE SUN This EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 provides powerful protection against the sun's harmful UV rays, as it hydrates and is gentle enough for post-procedure skin. Powered by hyaluronic acid, this face sunscreen plumps your skin with lightweight moisture to prevent the visible signs of environmentally caused aging. $28.50. At DermStore.com.

YEP, NAILED IT Forget Millennial pink. What’s in now is a Deborah Lippman nail color that features a dual-patented formula infused with 10 active ingredients that help deliver health, wear and shine. We love the shade of Chantilly Lace. $20. At Nordstrom.com.

CAPRI, ANYONE? Imagine walking the streets of Capri wearing these Chloe Candice leather slides. A timeless offering, these slides have wide, twisted straps cut from buttery russet leather. Plus, the ecru topstitching and the black rubber sole add a distinctive contrast. Slip yours on with a new floaty dress. $595. At Net-A-Porter.com.

HEM & HER This ruffle pleated Zaza dress by Rachel Comey comes in white and is perfect for a night on the town or a beach cover-up. Just roll it up and then unfurl for excitement. $450. At Shopbop.

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ROSE, BE THY NAME Easy-to-apply, this Lip + Cheek Stick provides buildable, blendable blush and lip color with Milk Makeup's Milk Melt Technology for instant and seamless absorption. Mango butter and avocado oil intensify its richness—just layer on for bolder color. $28. We love Dusty Rose. At Sephora.com.

GIVE IT THE OLD COLLEGE TRY The Greyson cashmere cardigan by Kule, in navy with contrasting band in a rainbow of colors, is perfect to have for a breezy spring day when you want to add more zest to any outfit. $358. At ShopBop.com.

BLAZING NEW TRAILS A fresh take on their signature dickey blazer, Veronica Beard’s Lyda jacket is tailored with structured shoulders in crisp twill. Notched lapels. Button-front closure. Waist flap pockets. Button cuffs. $645. At IntermixOnline.com.

FLORAL FANTASY Make a sweet statement with these BaubleBar earrings, which feature an oversized floral design in glossy, pink acetate. We’re sure they’ll become your new favorites, too. $42. At ShopBop.com.

GO UNDERCOVER This Freya natural straw fedora, with a broad brim, has an oversized mauve grosgrain band that wraps asymmetrically around the hat and finishes with a modern angular fold. Ideal for beach or errands. $220. At TheFreyabrand.com. s MARCH/APRIL 2020

entertain

spring’s new purpose

Out with the cold and in with the warmth that spring ushers in, along with a philanthropical spirit in entertaining, according to our special occasion etiquette expert, Jay Remer.

THERE IS NOTHING MORE ANTICIPATED, OR WELCOME, than the first real spring fling of the year, is there? The winter palette of muted colors and heavy fabrics, of comfort food and gravy, and frigid temps and indoor entertaining all make way for an eruption of bright and cheery pastels, a cornucopia of fresh, bountiful fruits and vegetables, and the warm feeling of the sun’s glow on our faces. This year, more than ever, we need to muster up whatever courage it takes to swing into full party mode. After months of challenging news stories, we need to bust loose and celebrate life. Spring welcomes rebirths of all kinds, including hope, compassion, and civility. When Henry Francis du Pont entertained, his priorities differed considerably from the norm and reflected more his own personal preferences. So, number one on his list was the flowers, which were abloom in his garden. From there, he then went on to select the pattern of china that would fit most elegantly with the floral centerpieces. Then, the menu, including wines, was his final consideration. He also recorded in a ledger who attended each of his many dinner parties, who they sat next to, and what the menu was so these details were never duplicated at future parties. The privileged du Pont was lucky to have such choices. Today, we often prioritize things differently than in his time. I choose the menu first and then work out the tablewares and decorations after. The start of planning any great party is to have an occasion to host the event in the first place. There are many life events we enjoy celebrating annually, and since we all love any excuse to throw a party, why not come up with an entirely new idea this year? One innovative idea is to pick your favorite small, local charity–one that is out of the mainstream but could benefit significantly from a fundraising

party. To give it a brighter spotlight and raise awareness, consider putting it together with a sporting event–golf or croquet, anyone? If the charity supports an animal cause, why not have one of your pets host the event? I’ve hosted a number of these intimate fundraisers–each one with its own flavor. The result is a genuinely fun time and a feeling of satisfaction from having made a difference. Amidst all the frivolity that we enjoy injecting into our lives, we must remember that most people don’t live this experience, and we have a responsibility to acknowledge this...and assist whenever possible. I’ve always been one to seek out the weakest link and turn it into a pillar of strength. Entertaining can be a great catalyst in achieving this. Another twist to a spring fling that can require more courage than comfort is hosting a party with guests who likely don’t know one another. There are always newcomers in town, and this is a great way to include them in the mix, even if you haven’t met them yet yourself. Spring, a time of rebirth, is perfect for building new relationships. You will be delighted and inspired by how well these events work at building a stronger community, too. Build a guest list that includes friends from different demographics. Networking has far-reaching positive results and what better way than a party to meet new people and make new connections. Finally, for some of us, a party that incorporates our favorite things, from flowers to food, may be something we’ve been putting off long enough in deference to the latest trend, formal obligations, or special requests from others. Why not have it all your way for a new twist? Organizing such a party allows us to color outside the lines and indulge ourselves in honestly considering what our favorite things actually are. Who are our favorite friends? Pondering these favorites is guaranteed to brighten your day. Toss them all together and enjoy the magic. s

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create

ultimately ungaro

The legend and legacy of the top 80s designer Emanuel Ungaro, a Texas fashion favorite for his French flair and eye for color, continues today, according to our global fashion expert Gordon Kendall.

COLOR ME BEAUTIFUL Those 1980s styles were when ruffles flourished…ruching ruled…and neon-brights were just right when it came to the tonal palette. The fashion world recently said goodbye to Emanuel Ungaro, the French designer who came to prominence during the era that came to be known for female power dressing. In a sense, that very same empowerment and homage to the 80s is back in this season’s ballroom and red carpet dressing. He loved women as much as he loved to dress them―in shapely, body-conscious clothes, rich in details, embellishments, attention-grabbing colors, and arrestingly contrasting prints. Images can only capture the impact of his clothes at the time which inspired each collection. Their exuberant aspect, from the seemingly simple, but saturated chrome yellow sheath, to the over the top and then some black ball gown were works of pop art on fabrication. Emanuel Ungaro, the designer, however, was much more complicated than even the most lavish of his gowns. Houston philanthropist and International Best Dressed Hall of Famer, Lynn Wyatt, an early Ungaro fan and frequent attendee at his Paris couture shows, clues us into what he was like when she says, “He was truly ahead of the game. He loved using color. And he was such a nice man, too.”

Emanuel Ungaro and model, 1980s

To become ahead of the game, Ungaro first learned the French fashion game of over 50-years ago, a time before designers’ houses had become the big commercial brands many are today. He came from the quaint and arcane world of traditional haute couture with its many rules and countless demands placed on designers and clients. It would be difficult to find any designer with credentials more traditionally impeccable as his. In fact, it was in his blood. He was born the son of a tailor in Aix-enProvince in 1933 from whom he learned the trade of cutting, sewing, and, fitting garments. To that end, he was master of both those extremes of garment construction: le tailleur, or structured work and le flou, to make flowing. He didn’t just sketch; he often preferred to drape onto live models.

SURROUNDED BY GREATNESS Ungaro went to Paris, where by 1958, he was working with the one and only Cristobal Balenciaga, where he stayed for six years working directly with the master couturier. He briefly worked in 1964 for just two collections with his mentor, Andre Courreges. However, he was always destined to be out of the shadows of others. Ungaro was now ready to define fashion on his own terms, to be ahead of his peers and how they perceived fashion, but most importantly how they expected, even demanded, their fashions be worn. His genius was to design clothes that would appeal to a new generation of women who, themselves, defined fashion in their own way, not just on the terms set by a cabal of designers with their constantly changing seasonal dictates of what it meant to be fashionable. By the 1980s, his heyday, he had hit his professional stride, both in his fashions and what they meant to those who wore them. His fame was global. The Ungaro lady knew she was a respected lady. He only sought to dress, never to tell her how to dress like many of his contemporaries. These worldly, sophisticated women who became his loyal customers, it was they who chose to be as outrageous as outré as they wished, whether it be in the boardroom, the ballroom, or anywhere else for that matter. Ungaro only offered how it might be done through his own take on color, print, silhouette, and style ideas found in both his couture pieces or, later, sent out under his Parallel ready-to-wear label.

Ungaro gown, 1980s

His clothes were as bold as his respect for those who wore them, an attitude that came exuded and was understood by his legion of fans. Images of Ungaro’s clothes may speak to a particular period in fashion, but along came Ungaro with the timeless message of a fashion designer’s respect for the women who wear his designs. s

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Ungaro dress, 1980s

drive

italian stallion

Like many exotic things, The Alfa Romeo 4C is impractically perfect. According to our automotive enthusiast editor, Michael Satterfield, who takes it for a spin for a few, beautiful hours and turns heads with the cars stunning good looks. PIACERE DI CONOSCERTI LET’S FACE IT: THE ALFA ROMEO 4C SPIDER IS A CAR I WANTED to drive since it was first introduced at the New York International Auto Show in 2014. With its carbon-fiber chassis, stunning good looks, and turbocharged Italian soundtrack, it ticks all the boxes. However, with just a few hundred a year sold in the U.S., getting my hands on one required calling in a favor. For the next few hours, it would be me, the 4C, and some backroads around Austin’s Lake Travis. Getting in and out of the 4C requires a little practice, the ultra-wide sills from the carbon fiber monocoque and the low seating position means you must contort your body just right. Once you learn the process, it becomes a little more natural, and is much easier once you remove the roof, and I do mean remove the roof. Unlike most modern convertible sports cars, the 4C Spider’s roof doesn’t disappear at the touch of a button. It's not a slick multi piece hardtop like the Mazda MX-5 RF or even a traditional soft-top like you find on the new Porsche 718 Spyder. No, Alfa decided to make a soft Targa that has six latches and, when stowed in the trunk, takes up nearly all the 3.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Seeing as most people are buying a 4C Spider as a second, third, or even fourth car, I assume the top comes off and rarely goes back on. With the top off, I get behind the wheel for some canyon carving and start the engine. This car is equipped with the optional Akrapovic Dual Mode Center Mounted Exhaust, which enhances what was already a great sounding car with just the factory exhaust. I select the drive mode and take off along the closest thing Texas has to Costa Brava, Lime Creek Road. Echoing off the hillside, the 4C sounds like a supercar, even though it has a diminutive 1.7liter four-cylinder that only produces 237hp, and it just doesn’t feel quick― it is quick. It’s Formula 1 inspired carbon fiber chassis is stiff and this car with optional 235/35R19 rear tires has seemingly limitless grip.

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MI CHIAMO ITALIANO It is still Italian, so the expected eccentricity becomes quickly apparent after just a few miles of driving. There is no storage space in the car save for a small glove box between the seats, and they also put small cell phone pockets by the seats. The unassisted steering is great in the canyons but heavy in parking situations, rearward visibility is terrible, and the car can feel very big on small country roads due to its wide stance. In traffic or on long straight stretches of highway the exhaust note becomes a mindnumbing drone. In the city, the 4C Spider garners as much attention as any supercar, with its exotic looks, the performance exhaust note, and its rarity makes it a conversation starter in parking lots, gas stations, and long red lights. This 2019 4C Spider is Giallo Prototipo Yellow, a $1,500 option and one of the prettiest and rarest colors offered on the 4C Spider. The special hue is not the only option on this car.The 4C I am driving has many amazing options such as the inside trim done with carbon fiber, microfiber, and leather. Luxuries like cruise control, rear backup sensors, and an Alpine audio system are also optional. Performance options, in addition to the Akrapovic exhaust, include the race-tuned suspension package and wider wheels and performance tires. Outside there is even more carbon fiber, Bi Xenon headlamps, and colormatched brake calipers. They even threw in a red Alfa Romeo car cover, which brings the total MSRP for this 4C Spider just over $85,000.

That price point means that the 4C occupies a unique space in the sports car world, it costs nearly three times more than a Fiat 124 Abarth, the only other sub 100K Italian convertible on sale today. Yet, it is not significantly less expensive (with these options) than the Porsche 718 Spyder, which offers 177 more horsepower, a more practical interior and top assembly, and slightly more cargo space for your weekend getaways. If it is a practical sports car you are looking for the Jaguar F-Type, Audi TT RS, or C8 Corvette all offer more space, power, and function than the 4C Spider for around the same money. But while all those cars are great, they aren’t nearly as special as the Alfa Romeo. The 4C Spider is wildly impractical, far too loud, and frustratingly eccentric, and that is precisely why I love it. While using it daily would drive you insane, it is the perfect car for a weekend blast to the Hill Country, you’ll just need to ship your luggage to the hotel ahead of time, but it would be worth it. We know 2020 is the final year of this model 4C Spider, and with no replacement on the horizon, the 4C could be the last true Alfa Romeo sports car, at least for a while. If I were going to put my money down on a sports car right now, it would be the 4C Spider. The little Alfa offers all the exotic good looks, thrilling driving dynamics, and exclusivity of, say a Lamborghini Huracan, with a starting price that is well, $190,000 less. s

MARCH/APRIL 2020

savor

now try this With springtime, our appetites for something new are renewed, aren’t yours? Join our editors Lesa Rossick in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio as they share their stellar statewide recommendations that are must-dines as the weather turns sunnier.

austin

dallas/fort worth

IT’S A TEN The new, modern Japanese restaurant, TenTen, recently opened downtown with fixtures made of stone and black walnut and art by Ysabel Lemay. The menu includes delicious, elevated dishes such as Hamachi Carpaccio with freshly, shaved truffle and Japanese centric cocktails... in the hub of downtown. At TenTenAustin.com.

AVO GOOD DAY Avo Eatery is the new source for culinary innovation and avocados from Mexico reign supreme.. The menu offers tantalizing American dishes with a fresh avocado twist. The decor features light wood accents and lush greenery meant to resemble an avocado grove. At AvoEatery.com.

STRUT YOUR STYLE The new Proper hotel has arrived in the hub of downtown, including Goldie’s cocktail lounge and the Peacock restaurant. In a vibrant interior and cozy patio atmosphere, bright and fresh Mediterranean dishes are served, such as Red Snapper Crudo to tempt your taste buds. At ProperHotel.com.

POWER DUO The power team behind Emmer & Rye has opened a new restaurant and adjacent bar, with a cool European vibe like this city, has never seen before. Hestia focuses on live-fire meals while the bar, Kalimotxo, gives an experience with Spanish wine and cocktails. Both combine for a fun evening that you won’t soon forget. At KalixmotoATX.com.

THE COMEBACK KID This iconic Uptown Tex-Mex restaurant shuttered in 2013 but has recently reopened in a modernized new space with a spacious outdoor patio. While the menu features mouth-watering dishes, fans of the original restaurant will be happy to find Primo's legendary margaritas still on the menu alongside contemporary cocktails. As an added bonus, the restaurant will offer latenight eats on weekends. At PrimosUptown.com.

COCK-A-DOODLE-WHO? Opening mid-March, Yardbird Southern Table & Bar will be a house of worship to farm-fresh ingredients, a hailed bourbon selection, and topnotch hospitality while serving up a fresh, inventive take on classic, regional Southern fare. The fan-favorite brunch with all the fixings will be dished up on the weekends. The décor draws inspiration from contemporary industrial details and the communal aspects of southern dining with lush indoor and outdoor seating. At RunChickenRun.com.

Photo courtesy of Ink Fingers

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Photo courtesy of Fletchers

savor houston

san antonio

INDIAN PASSAGE No passport required for the culinary journey that you will experience at Musaafer. Located in Uptown's business district, it specializes in authentic Indian cuisine with a contemporary flair, and the menu features classic Indian dishes served in an avant-garde presentation referencing opulent palaces and Spice markets of ancient India. At MusaaferHouston.com.

EXOTIC ALLURE Loosely translated as to eat well, Kin Dee is opening in the Market at the Heights and features a vibrant 2,500-square foot interior that skews contemporary with custom furnishings. Inspired by a lifetime of culinary and culturally immersed travel throughout Thailand, Srasrisuwan, and Leotkhamfu guests will be taken on a culinary journey with authentic dishes showcasing regional and Royal Thai Family recipes. At KinDeeThaiCuisine.com.

WINE + CULINARY The new Mutiny Wine Room boasts a boutique wine program, centered on the proprietors’ winecountry relationships, that comes to life in a Napa Valley-inspired space built from the ground up in Houston’s historic Heights neighborhood. Plus, the culinary program is based on freshness and seasonality in the winecountry culinary style. At MutinyWineRoom.com.

BE YOUR OWN MAVERICK Situated in the historic Lockwood National Bank building downtown, Maverick Whiskey’s second-floor restaurant and bar offers unique cuisine and cocktails crafted with extraordinary taste. With lunch and dinner menus updated seasonally, Maverick Whiskey offers fresh recipes inspired by the season with choices from an assortment of entrees, such as colorfully tossed salads and savory southern-inspired plates. At MaverickWhiskey.com.

IN WITH THE OUTLAWS A cozy kitchen in the heart of historic Alta Vista, Outlaw Kitchens is an enchantingly inviting neighborhood café where they offer a nightly dinner of the chef ’s choosing. Elevated farm-to-table cuisine with a rotating pre-fixed menu and an intimate atmosphere that feels like a dinner party makes for a memorable experience with every visit. Add wine and beer and friendly cheer to the perfect recipe that is this quaint, unique eatery, and it’s no surprise that it has quickly become a local favorite. At OutlawKitchens.com.

SOUTHERN CHARMED An intriguing, southern-inspired destination for relaxing suppers, slow weekend brunching or a meeting hub for business lunches and happy hour, Ida Claire has opened a San Antonio location across from the Quarry that is drawing foodies from all around town. Our favorite feature? Outdoor seating in a whimsically decorated air stream that’s picture-perfect for Instagram enthusiasts. At Ida-Claire.com. s

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marketplace

Jackie and Calvin Smith & Calvin Smith, Jr.

rise and shine

A hit for decades with those who love to sparkle, Calvin’s Fine Jewelry of Austin has been the go-to family-run for quality, custom jewelry. We caught up with Calvin Smith, Jackie Smith and Calvin Smith, Jr. to learn more about the secrets to their success. By Rob Giardinelli

Photography courtesy of Calvin’s Fine Jewelry

Rob Giardinelli: What inspired you to launch Calvin’s Fine Jewelry in 1997?

Calvin Smith, Jr.: Our family-run business is dedicated to customer service and satisfaction. It takes the combined efforts of a family who takes pride in something that reflects on them personally. Nothing is more important to us than making sure we deliver a quality piece that makes our customers proud. We receive such wonderful reviews from customers who appreciate this and it's what keeps us working hard every day to be the best we can be for them. Our customers mean the world to us.

Calvin Smith: After Jackie and I were married in 1996, we set out to make the dream a reality since I had been making and repairing jewelry for wholesale accounts for many years. I wanted to have my own retail jewelry store and be my own boss ever since leaving my father's jewelry business at the age of 18. RG: What influences inspire you to create your custom jewelry pieces?

RG: What do you think is unique about Texas clientele?

Jackie Smith: Calvin's inspirations come about from seeing precious gems that speak to us in a way that claims a certain style of their own. When you see a gorgeous sapphire or uniquely cut emerald for example, we can then imagine the perfect jewelry design for that gem. It is very rewarding to design for people who love jewelry. It has also become quite common for customers to create jewelry from their own inspirations. We specialize in taking their ideas and making them a reality.

Calvin Smith: Texans dream big, so we make big. RG: Why is custom jewelry a great option for your current and new clients? Jackie Smith: Custom jewelry is perfect for anyone who wants to create a one of a kind piece of jewelry or make something they have seen on social media. Whether it is an engagement ring or any other type of jewelry to mark a specific memory or occasion, it is cherished for holding onto those special moments in time. s

RG: What is the benefit of buying custom jewelry pieces from a family run business?

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marketplace

Lisa and Steven Millman, Kristin Ernst and Lisa Sechler

shop in shop

Tracy Williams

art form

Grove Hill Celebrates With Bella Dahl Shopping Event By Jake Gaines

San Antonio Artist Tracy Williams Hosts Debut Of New Works By Jake Gaines

Recently, Grove Hill Ltd. in San Antonio hosted the Bella Dahl shop-in-shop grand opening celebration, which was an exclusive to the store. Bella Dahl’s owners Steve and Lisa Millman of Los Angeles, the line’s Dallas sales representative Deanna Wilde, local influencers, customers and friends attended the event.

Photography by Greg Harrison

Alissa Howard

Contemporary and abstract artist Tracy Williams recently celebrated the unveiling of a collection of new works and paintings, Rock On. The venue, the Ivy Hall in Southtown, provided the perfect backdrop for the event, while the delectable light bites and drinks were from Tim the Girl Catering.

Photography by Greg Harrison

Elizabeth Houston, Bill and Tina Lyons & Tracy Williams

Bette Foster and Passed appetizers and spirits were served to the Abby Tolin guests to enjoy as they shopped. A percentage of the evening’s proceeds from the event benefited the AugustHeart Foundation, a locally-based organization dedicated to providing free screenings to teenagers to identify selected heart abnormalities. s

Painting by Tracy Williams

Williams addresses the place of and beyond an earthly plane, inspired by the wonders of flora and fauna, land, and sky. Abstract expressionism is rooted in a family legacy of artists. Williams often returns to memories of producing art at an early age: clay-making and discovering color. This influence energized Williams to create a more committed body of work, and still guides her study today. Williams’ paintings demonstrate continuity and meditation in movement through the energy, emotion, and gestural exploration of her brushstroke, line, and color mixtures. Tracy Williams lives in San Antonio and creates in her personal studio. Her work has been exhibited locally at Blue Star Contemporary, The McNay, Southwest School of Art, AnArte Gallery, and the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. s

Lori McCreary, Bonnie Gittinger and Getchen Richards

Marnie Goldberg, Lisa Millman and Kimberly Flick

Jayne Clement, Gretchen Richards, Angie Montana, Peter Richards, Nancy Gibson, Kristin Ernst, Mary Alexander, Jackie Cameron, Kay Wiginton and Mary Wilde

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Congratulations and appreciation SHOOK Research and Forbes have named Carol Mani Johnston a 2020 Best-In-State Wealth Advisor for Texas

Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list is comprised of approximately 2,200 financial advisors. It was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to measure factors such as quality of practice, industry experience, compliance record, assets under management (which vary from state to state) and revenue. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees pay a fee in exchange for these ratings. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience.

UBS is proud to announce this achievement and to recognize the commitment and effort it takes to become a statewide standout. Every day, Carol makes her clients’ needs her first priority, earning their trust and respect, demonstrating her depth of knowledge and passion for helping families. It’s proven in the distinctive acclaim from SHOOK Research and Forbes. Please join us in congratulating Carol Mani Johnston on receiving this honor. We encourage you to make use of her time and talents, backed by the global resources of UBS. For more information, call: Carol Mani Johnston, CEPA® Senior Vice President– Wealth Management Wealth Advisor Senior Portfolio Manager 210-805-1075 carol.manijohnston@ubs.com The Mani Johnston Group UBS Financial Services Inc. 200 Concord Plaza, Suite 300 San Antonio, TX 78216

ubs.com/team/manijohnston

In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services, which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. For designation disclosures visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. © UBS 2020. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. © UBS 2020. All rights reserved. ACC_01232020-5

IS1800213

Exp.: 01/31/2021

Gary Raba Raba Kistner Consultants

Jeff Bolner Bolner’s Fiesta Products

SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

All we said was... “It’s from Lee Michaels” Chris Martinez Central Electric

MARCH/APRIL 2020

host

groovin’ in malibu John Paul and Eloise DeJoria Host A Groovy 60’s-Inspired Holiday Party At Their Malibu Home By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Silvia Mautner Photography

Gary Spellman and Justin Harvey

Michael Keaton and John Paul DeJoria

Eloise and John Paul DeJoria

Fran Drescher and John Paul DeJoria

Randy Jackson and John Paul DeJoria

Rob Giardinelli, John Paul and Eloise DeJoria & Lance Avery Morgan

THE SETTING: On a recent, picture-perfect Sunday afternoon in the Malibu hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, John Paul and Eloise DeJoria hosted a 60s-themed holiday party. Over a thousand friends, celebrities, and employees of the iconic Paul Mitchell brand, founded by John Paul DeJoria himself, were on hand to celebrate the holiday season…and, of course, have a groovy good time.

Mike and Semia Harvey & Eloise DeJoria

Shannon Ring and Wendy Harvey

Smokey Robinson, John Paul DeJoria and Frances Glandney

Once inside, the good times continued as everyone was treated to an array of festive food and activities that appealed to one's inner cool cat. Those who wanted to do something sporty could try their skills at miniature golf or sled down an ice-capped hill on the side of the estate with views of the Pacific Ocean (thanks to the two tons of snow trucked in for the event). Those who were feeling hungry had an impressive array of morsels to sample, including 60’s staples, burgers, and fries, as well as a buffet with classic TV tray fare. Iinterested in channeling your inner creativity? Attendees could take part in a host of crafts activities as well as the chance to visit the Beehive Hair Salon, where Paul Mitchell stylists were on hand to do transformative 60s makeovers.

Ed Begley Jr., John Paul DeJoria and Rachelle Carson

John Paul DeJoria and Dick Van Dyke

THE STYLE: As guests arrived at the DeJoria home, many could not help but think of Groovin’ (on a Sunday afternoon), the iconic song by the Rascals, and partygoers were doing just that the moment they walked (or were escorted via golf cart) up to the top of the winding driveway where the jaws of kids, and kids at heart, dropped at the spectacular winter wonderland on display. Ever the fabulous hosts, John Paul and Eloise, were on hand to pose for pictures with each and every guest there to celebrate. Many of the partygoers got into the 60s spirit with peace signs, tinted sunglasses, Pucci dresses, and the turtleneck/sport coat combos spotted among many of the attendees.

Stephen Tyler and Eloise DeJoria

The day was capped off with a snow resort photo booth to commemorate this one-of-a-kind holiday experience that allowed all on hand to cherish the memory of a special event that will be talked about for years to come. Until next time, Peace Out. s SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

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an evening in asia Emily Alice Carrington, Jenna Belle Fuhrmann, Sophie Aliece Hollis and Molly Clara Strange Celebrated At German Club Debutante Party In San Antonio By Jake Gaines | Photography by Jonathan Alonzo

WITH THE THEME OF JOURNEY TO THE FAR EAST, THE EVENING’S opening German Club debutante honorees were Emily Alice Carrington, Jenna Belle Fuhrmann, Sophie Aliece Hollis, and Molly Clara Strange.

Alex Strange, Mat Strange, Molly Strange and Kelly Strange

Cecilia Swanson, Averie Bartlett, Sarah Biehunko, Jillian Fuhrmann, Claudia Kiolbassa and Hannah Gibson

The parents of the young ladies, Lisa and Philip Cage Carrington, Joy and Triple Fuhrmann III, Liecie and Nick Hollis, and Kelly and Mat Strange, hosted the black-tie event at The San Antonio Country Club. The honorees wore their white debut gowns for the receiving line and then changed into gold gowns, designed especially for the ball. Locally-based dress designer Angelina Mata designed the evening’s wardrobe for Emily Carrington, Liecie Hollis and her daughter Sophie Hollis, and Joy Fuhrmann and her daughter Jenna Belle Fuhrmann.

Jillian Fuhrmann, Joy Fuhrmann, Jenna Belle Fuhrmann, Triple Fuhrmann and Carly Fuhrmann

The evening began with cocktails served to the elegant tunes of the pianist, Ditto. Then, performers from the San Antonio Lion Dancers Association led the debs and their escorts through the main hall and up the stairs to the ballroom where they did an authentic Lion Dance before the honorees were lead to the dance floor to kick off the dancing with the Dallas-based band, Emerald City. The flowers and décor were created by the Trinity Flowers team, led by Danny Cuellar. Signature Ice-It created a grand ice sculpture with a monkey holding an umbrella that matched the Chinoiserie monkey and umbrella theme throughout the event, on the invitations (designed by Alex Strange, the sister of honoree Molly Strange), bar, and surroundings. In fact, the venue’s rolling video of Asian cities and nightlife was created by Jillian Fuhrmann, honoree Jenna Belle’s older sister. This was all complemented by the work of Wesley Dowdy and Amy Riggle, the party planning team of The San Antonio Country Club, along with event planner Robin Waters. The beautiful space was illuminated by lighting designer, Eric Holtz and Illusions and Peerless event rentals provided the furnishings. To remember the magical evening for a long time to come, guests took snaps in the Mir Mir photo booth. s

Danny Cuellar, Frank Blanchard, Delores Cuellar, Ed Cervantes and Raul Saldana

Emily Carrington, Sophie Aliece Hollis, Jenna Belle Fuhrmann and Molly Strange

Henry Hollis, Liecie Hollis, Sophie Aliece Hollis, Nick Hollis and Ash Hollis

Philip and Lisa Carrington, Emily Carrington & Caroline and Cullen Guglielmo

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Pam Rosser and Angelina Mata

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colorado chic Camilla Kampmann’s Colorado-Themed Debutante Party in San Antonio By Jake Gaines | Photography by Jenna Beth Lyde

Jonathan Delmer, Bob Shemwell and Mark Watson

Mary Ellen Archer, Rebecca Long and Stephanie Bowen

Tracy and Jack Williams

George Kampmann, Elizabeth Kampmann, Ann Schneider and Camilla Kampmann

Walking into the venue, anyone familiar with the BMW dealership can agree it was completely transformed. From its usual backdrop that catered to top-of-theline German engineering, the tone had dramatically changed with the large lighted Camilla sign, the waterfall of lights over the drive, and red carpet into the main entrance. As guests entered, hundreds of Aspen leaves flanking the corridor inside set the stage for the size and scale of the main ballroom.

Amy Sugarman, Dan Weingart, Jennifer Shemwell and Shane Evans

The great room, with its 32-foot ceilings, was grounded by the centerpiece: massive hand-carved ice sculptures on each of the four sides of the J Bar with twenty-foot tall birch trees. Other bars included the Little Nell, Mountain Social at the St. Regis, and Cloud 9 at Highlands, all keeping with the Colorado theme. Another highlight of the room was the twenty-foot cherry tree, bathing the Cloud 9 bar in a pink glow. This pink theme was cleverly played throughout, with the bar only serving champagne and rosé champagne. In fact, in every glass of the No.3’ Grand Cru Rosé from André Clouet, fresh sliced strawberry and cherry garnishes completed the libation. Rosemary’s Catering provided the evening’s cuisine.

Candy Bagby, Olive Ann Kleberg and Tom Bagby

Wesley Sparr and Camilla Kampmann

For entertainment, the Piano Punch dueling pianos set the tone for the night's festivities, with the pianists taking crowd suggestions. Across from the pianos, guests lounged on leather chaises and enjoyed coffee, hot chocolate and warm desserts from Paradise Bakery. Later in the evening, the Limelight band entertained over 800 guests with their high-energy approach and style. This 13 piece party band from Dallas provided a musical range that spans decades of standards and classics, to the current hits of today, which guests danced to until the party closed.

Michael Myers, Virginia Seal, Abigail Kampmann & Stuart and Sharon Seal

Trudy and Ed Moore

FOR GERMAN CLUB DEBUTANTE Camilla Kampmann, her parents, Abigail and George A. Kampmann, Jr., hosted a Christmas in Colorado-themed party to honor their daughter. Held on a beautiful evening the weekend before Christmas at the Principle Auto BMW dealership in San Antonio, the venue was transformed for the evening into a holiday ball. This magical night, full of dancing and fun provided lasting memories for a lifetime for Camilla, a student at the University of Texas, and her friends.

Valerie Guenther and Lindsay Guenther

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For the late-night options, stations from Boogie’s, Ajax Tavern & Hickory House featured sliders, truffle fries, and biscuits with sausage. Trays full of Brandy Freezes and milkshakes circulated for guests interested in sweeter drinks. The photo booth, complete with a full-sized ski lift chair and ski equipment as props, made every guest feel a little closer to the slopes of the Rocky Mountains. s

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exotic flair Melanie Vaughan’s German Club Debutante Party In San Antonio By Jake Gaines | Photography by Greg Harrison THE GERMAN CLUB DEBUTANTE PARTY, Evening of Chinese Splendor, honored Melanie Vaughan’s travels to different regions of China that have inspired her over the last two years. She traveled there as part of her operatic vocal training with voice instructor, Dr. Chai Wai Lee of Trinity University. She, with other vocal students, performed at Chinese universities in different cities and provinces in China.

Wilson Daniell, Morgan Vaughan, Curtis Vaughan, Melanie Vaughan, John Luke Mannix, Karen Vaughan, Mallory Wright, Mikey Vaughan and Claire Rouse

As Melanie had immersed herself in Chinese culture, she was drawn to having a party theme that was very near and dear to her heart. During her travels to China, she grew as a person, and as a singer, and looks forward to returning in the future. Melanie wore a floor-length red dress based upon an authentic Chinese design with a modern, elegant flair. The gown, designed by Nicolas Vilalba, was wrapped with embroidered silk gold dragons imported from Hong Kong and had a traditional Chinese neckline embellished with red and gold crystals.

Taylor Nugent and Paige Gotlieb

Melanie and her family’s vision for the occasion were brought to life by Billinda Wilkinson and India Rhodes of Wilkinson Rhodes, who created a Chinese ambiance for the guests. Upon arrival at the Witte Museum, guests were greeted by a magnificent 12-foot long, hand-carved dragon, looming over the entrance guarded by two massive handmade gold Foo Dogs. Red Chinese lanterns dripped from the beams of the entrance as guests approached a 12-foot-high ice carving of a Chinese pagoda flanked on either side by Chinese Warriors, inspired by the Terracotta Army guarding Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum. Surrounding the ice Pagoda were holes drilled to hold shots of Singapore Sling cocktails for the guests’ enjoyment, while the Lemon Grass Empress martinis were passed upon entry to the venue. Inside, the venue was transformed to convey the feeling of a drawing-room in a Chinese Palace. Tables were draped with silk tablecloths and surrounded by ornate red chairs. Flowered fans framing red lacquer bars with Melanie’s name painted in Chinese lettering were among the carved dragons and perched atop custom-designed food stations that had curved gold tile roofs inspired by the palaces. Red and white Chinese dragons were also embossed onto the dance floor to add to the distinctive décor.

Drew Stewart, Katie Dehlinger and Kathryn Dehlinger

Melanie Vaughan

Georgia Wright and Maddy Walshak

The honoree’s travels also inspired the food for the evening. Steamed lobster dumplings were served on bamboo trays, and poke bowls were filled with many culinary delights to choose from such as Asian short ribs over noodles in a jar of smoke, sweet and sour baby back ribs, and spicy meatballs, with red chopsticks provided. Chocolate and Mochi Xiao Long Bao were served for dessert with milkshakes of ginger, green tea and mango passed for the guests’ pleasure, all of which were created by Cassandra Fine Catering. s

Spencer Shaw and Ford Douglas

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Chris Schultz, McKenzie Schultz and Courtney Schultz

Eric and Alice Foultz

Alli Heinemeyer, Madison Wright and Tatum Nugent

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let there be champagne Caroline Herbold and Christine Young's Champagne-Themed German Club Debutante Party In San Antonio By Jake Gaines | Photorgaphy by Danielle Roper

Caroline Herbold and Christine Young

Brad and Emily McMurray

Ted Chigaros, Jax Young, Melinda and Blair Young, Christine Young, Nick Allen and Todd Howell

Caroline Herbold and Christine Young

Whitney Webb, Haley Grosenbacher, Samara Taper and Cambry Lohmann

Eliza Davis, Laura Hickey, Molly Maguire, Caroline Herbold, Katie Anderson, Sophie Mieskandari and Courtney Yancey

Vince and Cindy Dawson

Lito Flanagan, Cullum Mills, Coalter Gebhart, Josh Arnold, Jack Jenny and Rick Schimpff Herbold, Phillip Bozzo, James Nittoli, Hunter Mills and Harry Burg

“TOO MUCH OF ANYTHING IS bad, but too much champagne is just right,” Mark Twain said, who might have enjoyed seeing the celebration of German Club debutantes Caroline Hollis Herbold and Christine Alexandra Young (in their gowns from Carolina Herrera from Julian Gold Bridal). The two debutantes met as toddlers and remained close through their years at Cambridge, Alamo Heights Junior School, and Alamo Heights High School. Although Caroline attends the University of Texas and Christine attends Northern Arizona University, they have remained friends even though a thousand miles apart. The honorees parents, Terri and Scott Herbold, and Melinda and Blair Young, wanted to make it all about the girls for the evening since they are both the only daughters in their families, each nestled in age between two brothers. Setting the stage were custom invitations, created by Claire Reynolds Stationer, to incorporate the St. Anthony Hotel venue’s beautiful green carpet in the hotel’s Peacock Alley area. As guests entered the historic hotel, they were met with giant images of Caroline and Christine, created by Signs By Tomorrow, that were perched atop champagne flutes overflowing with champagne bubbles. Butler-served champagne greeted guests and delicious hors-d'oeuvres were passed. On the way to the dance floor, one of the party rooms was transformed into a hot pink champagne blending bar offering signature drinks, The Christini and The Sweet Caroline, along with a variety of mixings for any champagne palette. To kick off the fete in style, Caroline and Christine used personally engraved, Custom-made sabers gifted to them by Tiffany and Todd Mills, to spew champagne over the crowd as the official start of the night. Then, the friends and family guests danced the night away to the sounds of Finding Friday and noshed on Chef Tracy Byrd’s delicious creations. Guiding the party along the way were newcomers to the event scene, Moonbird Events, as well as the hotel’s Roxanne Day. s

Nick Allen and Christine Young

Scott Herbold, Alex Herbold, Caroline Herbold & Jack and Terri Herbold

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Dancing With The Stars gala, Center for Child Protection, Austin

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There's so much spring in the air... and there's so much sweetness in your heart. F. Scott Fitzgerald, This Side of Paradise MARCH/APRIL 2020

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dancing dazzle 13th Annual Center for Child Protection’s Dancing with the Stars Gala Sizzles By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Jeff Loftin, Christina Murphy, Haley Plotkin and Ben Porter

THE SETTING: Against the backdrop

13th Annual Dancing with the Stars Winners Katrina Repka and Brian Yacktman Andra Liemandt, Katie Jaffe and Amber Allen

Diana and JR Martinez

Sasha Kurashko and Jeff Blake

Al and Amber Koehler

of a picture-perfect winter evening, over a thousand of the most notable sociables and philanthropists descended on Austin’s JW Mariott Hotel for the 13th annual Dancing with the Stars. Hosted by the Center for Child Protection, the event is one of the can’tmiss social events of the season. This year’s gathering was no exception, featuring an evening full of fun and show-stopping dance routines, and a special appearance by JR Martinez, a winner of the ABC’s televised version of Dancing with the Stars.

Carol Crowley and David Miller

Bill and Venus Strawn Gary McIntyre and Lesa Rossick

Glenn Ball

Jenny Mason and Francie Little

Robert Gonzales and Heidi Marquez Smith

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Melissa Cason and Alex Romanov

THE STYLE: Friends and supporters of the 11 celebrity

dancers donned their finest black-tie ensembles, with women choosing an eclectic mix of chic ballgowns with metallics, solid colors, and especially sequins being the most popular. Not to be outshined, the men also brought their finest eveningwear, with many sporting velvet tuxedo jackets, that helped create a festive environment.

Kendall and Justin McMinn

The evening began in the foyer of the ballroom for a breezy cocktail hour, where guests got to mingle and congratulate the celebrity dancers they were on hand to support. The action then moved to the main ballroom for the evening's program. The event emcees, Glenn Ball and Holly Mills Gardner, effortlessly kept the audience engaged throughout the event with a mix of humor and witty banter. Following a moving video, highlighting the purpose of the Center for Child Protection, the live auction had bidders seize the opportunity to purchase an impressive array of items including luxury vacation packages to such exotic locales as Africa, Croatia and Thailand. Then came the main event, the performances by the dancers themselves. One by one, each of the dancers strutted their stuff on the dance floor to iconic songs including Crazy in Love, Gonna Make U Sweat and I Will Survive that kept the audience on their feet throughout. After the dancing competition concluded, the audience vote was tallied and Brian Yacktman and his pro partner, Katrina Repka, were declared the winners. The evening was capped off with an after-party where partygoers danced into the wee hours of the morning to the tunes of DJ Johnny Bravo.

Laurie Gosda and Jeanne Parker

THE PURPOSE: The event, co-chaired by Francie Little and Jenny Mason, raised over $1.1 million for the Center for Child Protection. A nationally accredited children’s advocacy center that offers services ,including forensic interviews, counseling, and medical exams to children who are suspected victims of physical or sexual abuse as well as those who have witnessed violent crime. s

Holly Mills-Gardner

Tommy Schwegmann and Raechal Ferguson

Bill and Katrine Formby

Stephanie O'Neill and Francesca Kimbell

DJ Johnny Bravvo

Corby Jastrow and Sarah Berens

Tony Ciola and Karla Suarez

Mitch Gaylord and Sarah Vasilas

Amanda Arianda and Nicole Conger

Matt and Kara Swinney

Sandy Bayne and Travis Herman

MARCH/APRIL 2020

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signed, sealed & delivered Performance by Grammy Award®-Winning Artist Seal Caps Off Andy Roddick Foundation Gala By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tyler Schmitt Photography

THE SETTING: The Moody Theatre at ACL Live in Austin was the recent setting for the 14th Annual Andy Roddick Foundation gala. In total, over 2,000 philanthropists, sociables, and music lovers were on hand for an evening that combined two of Austin’s favorite past-times: fundraising and music.

Matt Calhoun and Amanda Russell

Charles and Natalee Thornburgh

Andy Roddick and Brooklyn Decker

Jan and John Mays, Lisa Fritsch & Alan Godfrey Seal performs

Jen and Karl Hemmelgarn

Richard Tagle and William Van Pelt

Kimberley Dwiggins and Ana Maria Dwiggins

Stephanie Gilbert and Larissa Cartwright

Vidar and Lieve Saether

THE STYLE: The stylish crowd began the evening with a VIP reception and cocktail hour. The 400 attendees of the main gala then moved into the orchestra level of the Moody Theatre for the main program. As guests dined, they were treated to videos showing the positive impact the organization has had on many youths in the Austin community. Next was the live auction, which included a tennis match with Roddick at the Billie Jean King US Tennis Center during the 2020 US Open in New York that went for over $150,000 to not one, but two lucky winners. The patrons of the gala were then joined by 1,600 music lovers perched on the mezzanine level of the Moody Theatre to listen to a concert performed by Grammy ® Award-winning artist Seal. The legendary performer dazzled the audience with a mix of new tunes and classic hits that had the crowd on their feet throughout…capping off a night for the ages.

THE PURPOSE: The event raised well over $1 million for the Andy Roddick Foundation. The mission of the Andy Roddick Foundation is to provide highquality learning and enrichment activities for at-risk students during out of school hours so children can discover their passions in life. s

Brittany and Jeremy Driscoll, Kara Scholz, Daniel Elam & Kelly and Brett Buller

Sherri West

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motown magic The Kindness Campaign Partners With Grammy ® Museum To Host Motown’s 60th Anniversary By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Ben Porter

THE SETTING: A private residence in Austin was recently the setting for a special evening that honored one of the world’s most beloved music genres, the soul of Motown. In total, 230 of the city’s most notable philanthropists, sociables, and music lovers were on hand for the Art of Kindness, which celebrated Motown’s 60th anniversary in a special partnership between The Kindness Campaign and the Grammy® Museum. THE STYLE: The winter-chic crowd began the evening with cocktails where guests mingled, sipped cocktails, and brimmed with anticipation of the entertaining night ahead. The music lovers then headed to their seats for the program, conversation, and concert. The program included a Q&A with legendary Motown singer Claudette Robinson, of The Miracles, as well as a live auction that featured such luxe items as the Red Carpet Treatment package that included a VIP tour of the Grammy® Museum and tickets for four to Conan, and a Pampering in Paradise private getaway for six in the Caribbean, which fetched the highest dollar amount of the evening. The night was capped off by a surprise concert by Grammy® Award-winning musician, Estelle, who brought the crowd to its feet and had them dancing the night away into the wee hours of the morning.

Walter Marcantoni and Nak Armstrong

THE PURPOSE: The event, co-chaired Cassie and Scott Bale

Josh and Amy Baer

Alexis Davis and Valerie Melton

Lawton and Craig Cummings

Jennings Steen, Jenny and Andrew Mason & Yunideth Steen

by Amber Allen and Lawton Cummings, raised over $450,000 for The Kindness Campaign. The Kindness Campaign’s mission is to provide positive and accessible tools to promote emotional health for students based on the core message I Am Enough. s

Kimberly Pierce and Joanie Bentzin

Jane Flynn and Adria Sheth

Erin Thornton and Andra Liemandt

Todd and Stephanie O'Neill

Amber Allen

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Claudette Robinson

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always celebrate life Celebration of Life Luncheon Features Breast Cancer Survivors, Fashions From Julian Gold By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Ben Porter

THE SETTING:

The JW Marriott hotel in Austin was the recent setting of the Celebration of Life luncheon. One of the capital city’s most anticipated annual luncheons, this year’s gathering met the high expectations, with over 400 of Austin’s most notable sociables and philanthropists for a delightful afternoon of fashion, fun and fundraising.

THE

Justin Poses and Lauren Petrowski Susan Lubin and Marcia Levy

Julie Eaton

Model wearing fashions from Julian Gold

Rosanne Easton and Marci Dell

Morgan Baker, Cassie Henk, Jade Shafer and Jenna Mullholand

Matt and Britta Klucznik

JK Baxter and Tobie Funte

Maryam Fernandez, Pamela Crowther and Mara Fouts

STYLE: The luncheon-chic crowd kicked off the festivities in style with champagne during a fun and lively cocktail reception, where the fashionable crowd had the opportunity to mingle with one another. The action then moved to the main ballroom for the program and fashion show. Emcee Lauren Petrowski effortlessly kept the audience entertained as they dined on a light lunch and heard words from key event leaders. Next, came a series of fashion shows sponsored by Julian Gold and Webber Productions. The first show featured some of the over 120 breast cancer survivors and fighters on hand as they modeled their favorite looks down the runway. The second fashion show featured an array of the latest Julian Gold fashions that dazzled the fashionistas, capping off an afternoon of largesse and style.

THE PURPOSE: The event, chaired by Lara Burns Boyda with Fayruz Benyousef serving as honorary chair, raised funds for the Seton Breast Care Center and the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation, which provides awareness, education, and treatment to women who have breast cancer. s

Models wearing fashions from Julian Gold

Matt Boyda and Lara Burns Boyda

Sara Wisser and Lauri Truong

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Delaney Brown and Kendall Brown

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conserving for the future Pease Park Conservancy Hosts Second Annual Gala, Past Present Pease By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Matt Lanke

Mela Sarajane Dailey, Heath Riddles and Marcus Sanchez & Morgan Gaddis

Clayton and Cora Bullock

THE

Harris Kaffie and Laurie Humphries

Shontell Gauthier and Alexis Sheehy

Catherine and Will Powers

Stacy Alexander, Patrick Keel and Karen Burgess

Richard Craig

Ty Haney

THE SETTING: The Austin Central Library was the recent setting for an evening of fun and fundraising for one of Austin’s most beloved public spaces. The Pease Park Conservancy hosted its second annual event, Past, Present and Pease, which drew 350 of Austin’s most notable sociables, philanthropists and nature lovers for an evening of fun…and fundraising.

Scotty Sayers and Rita Kreisle

Jennifer Skloss and Liz Howard

Lauren and Adam Aseron

Fernando Gonzaga, Melanie McLeroy and Mark Erwin

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STYLE: The winter-chic crowd brought indoors the spirit of being outside for the event, with many donning their favorite cold-weather attire including sweaters, sport coats, overcoats, and jackets that were as warm and inviting as the attendees themselves. The evening began with a fun and lively cocktail hour, where the conversation flowed as freely as the spirits as old friends reacquainted and new friends were made. The patrons then turned their attention to the main stage for the evening’s program which included words from Pease Park CEO, Heath Riddles and Outdoor Voices CEO Ty Haney, among others, highlighting the impressive work of the Pease Park Conservancy. The organization is in the midst of revitalizing Pease Park, one of Austin’s most beloved public spaces, with a new vision for it to be brought to life.

THE PURPOSE: The event, co-chaired by Morgan Gaddis and Jennifer Skloss, raised over $200,000 for the Pease Park Conservancy. The funds from this event will go directly towards the revitalization of Kingsbury Commons, which will transform how Austinites enjoy the public space in the heart of the city. s

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family affair Annual ReuNight Event Upholds Mission Of Helping North Texas Families By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Celeste Smith and Jason Voinov

THE SETTING: The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek was the recent setting for the 7th Annual ReuNight for The Family Place. The event drew several hundred of Dallas’ most notable philanthropists, influencers, and sociables for a memorable evening of fun and fundraising that those on hand will not soon forget. THE STYLE: The moment the cocktailElaine Witmann and Elaine Kartalis

Melinda Bell, Natalie Lorio and Catherine Cox

Leah and Jim Pasant

Natasha and Andrew Hallam

Travis and Stephanie Hollman

chic crowd entered the recently renovated grounds of this beloved Dallas landmark, guests knew they were in for a special evening. After posing for pictures on the step and repeat, partygoers engaged in a fun and engaging cocktail hour where VIP’s rubbed elbows and brimmed with anticipation for the night ahead. Additionally, guests had the opportunity to view the impressive array of silent auction items on display. The action then moved into a stunning tent on the Mansion’s grounds complete with sparkling chandeliers that matched the energy of its patrons for the main program. After attendees were treated to words by the event co-chairs, they imbibed on a scrumptious, multi-course meal against the ambient backdrop of tunes by Ricki Derek and The Vegas Six. A spirited live auction followed where bidders had a chance to raise paddles for their favorite items. A special appearance by Elvis impersonator, Victor Trevino also entertained the crowd.

THE PURPOSE: ReuNight, co-chaired Lynn McBee and Nick Even

Stephanie Seay and Carol Seay

Mike and Sharon Bowers

Lisa Singleton and Kristen Sanger

Louise Collins and Ashley Stephenson

Howard and Fanchon Hallam

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by Melinda Bell, Catherine Cox, and Natalie Lorio, with the Hallam family serving as honorary chairs, raised funds for The Family Place. The mission of the organization is to provide a safe space, counseling and skills for victims of bullying and domestic violence. Since 1978, The Family Place has served over 216,500 individuals in the North Texas region. s

Chris and Diana Scott

Emily Maduro and Paige Flink

Ron and Kristi Hoyl

Dwight and Claire Emanuelson

Marisa Howard, Samantha Wortley and Emberli Pridham

Kristina and John Hallam

Mike and Vinette Montgomery

Robert Hallam, Catherine Sweet and Sara Hallam

Chuck and Lindsay Jacaman Josie and Carl Sewell

Ann Wood and Carl Wagner

Pam and Mitchell Ward

Carl and Linda Bell

Kristin Case and James Hallam

Harold and Bunny Ginsburg & Ursula and Bill Graham

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Margaret and Glenn Soloman

Brooke Ginsburg and Paul Guerrero

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indian paradise Southwest School of Art Gala Celebrates Mumbai By Moonlight Gala By Leanne Raesener | Photography by Landers Photography

Albert and Jordan Vexler & Peter and Carolyn French Cosmo and Dani Guido & Kathy and Jeff Bolner

Perny Shea and Chris Hill Elise and Craig Boyan & Jorge Elizondo

Maria and Frank Beck

Lorien and Marc Whyte

Kate Dawson, Courtney Smith and Claire McNab

James and CeCe Griffin, Krishna Reddy and Brianna Simmons

Dwight Chumbley and Rick Cavender

Phillip and Mary Stephanie Locke

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THE SETTING: The San Antonio rain cleared just in time to create a magical evening for the Southwest School of Art’s Mumbai by Moonlight Gala in the Garden presented by James Avery Artisan Jewelry. The evening’s scene was set with exotic décor and colorful displays to transport guests into a faraway land of beauty, entertainment, and exquisite culinary offerings. THE STYLE: The dinner, provided by Club Giraud, featured delectable curried lamb masala prepared flawlessly with basmati rice and lime-cilantro prawns. Konkan apricot cheesecake with toasted almonds and mint completed the meal. Guests in the Coates Chapel were treated to a wide variety of fine art by many noted artists and galleries, including original works by students in the Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Program to enjoy and purchase, all benefitting the School. Then, guests were treated to an outstanding Bharatanatyam performance by Kalalaya Indian Performing Arts and a dazzling Bollywood Fusion Dance from UTSA Sapna. After an evening of great food, fabulous friends, and top-notch entertainment, guests then moved to the Urschel Administrative Building for the Neiman Marcus Bollywood After Party. There they danced the night away to music by DJ Catwalk and delighted in a wide variety of treats presented by Neiman Marcus, the sponsor of the event’s after party since its inception in 2014.

THE PURPOSE: Courtney and Tobin Smith, Claire and Easton McNab, and Kate and Taylor Dawson co-chaired the event. The Southwest School of Art is the only independent college of art in Texas, and all proceeds from the gala benefit the operations of the organization. s

Cece Cheever, Ed Cervantes & Dolores and Danny Cuellar

Neiman Marcus after party

Andrew and Ashley Friedman & Amanda Cavender Reagin and Toni McAllister

Albert and Jordan Shannon

Dr. Alexis Wiesenthal, Raul Saldana, Regina Rocha and Frank Blanchard

Andi Rodriguez and Jada Andrews-Sullivan

Lindsay Del Rosario and Sam Seelig

Andy Russ, Jeremy Kell and Solange Iriarte

Tobin and Courtney Smith, Easton and Claire McNab, Taylor Dawson, Paula Owen & Kate Dawson

Don and Caroline Royal & Patty and Ken Halliday

Michael and Nicola McLaughlin & Bradley Kayser

Kathryn Glast, Aida Castro Snyder and Lisa Pena

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Cheney and Tripp Stuart, Mark Greenburg & Joanne and Dr. Gary Lawton

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to the moon Museum of Fine Arts Houston Celebrates Art of the Islamic Worlds Gala By Jennifer Roosth | Photography by Priscilla Dickson and Wilson Parish

THE SETTING:

Cenk Ozdogan, Sabiha Rehmatulla, Sima Ladjevardian, Gary Tinterow, Rania Daniel, Aliyya Stude and Monsour Taghdisi Amir Taghdisi & Anooshea and Ali Taghdisi

Iraj and Fariba Taghi & Tina and Amir Taghi

Lisa and Kevin Pham

Ping Sun, Hon. Bill and Andrea White & David Leebron

Beverly Bentley, Mary Catherine Jones and Leslie Blanton

Over 375 guests arrived at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston for the biennial Art of the Islamic Worlds gala held in Cullinan Hall. The Events Company elegantly set the tables with navy shantung silk linens, acrylic ghost chairs, and delicate, white floral arrangements artfully comprised of orchids, calla lilies, and hydrangeas. Complementing this year’s theme of Under One Moon, projections of the night sky with a prominent moon, which continually transformed from full to crescent throughout the evening, were also displayed on the walls surrounding the seated dinner.

THE STYLE: After MFAH Director, Gary Tinterow, made the welcoming remarks, City Kitchen served a delectable three-course seated dinner. For dessert, guests enjoyed a trio of a rose-petal rice pudding shooter, an apricot bar with black cherry, anise, and candied ginger compote, and a bittersweet chocolate and soft cardamom truffle with pistachio crumble, cinnamon-scented mascarpone, and an espresso cookie. Entertainment during dinner was provided by a special performance by Ziya Azazi: Dervish in Progress. Following dinner, guests danced the night away to the sounds of DJ Senega. THE PURPOSE: This year’s gala

German and Micheline Newall

Behnaz Atighi Moghaddam and Sara Plumbly

Keefer Lehner, Laura Murphy & Janie and Daniel Zilkha

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raised a total of $945,000 through ticket sales and donations. Members of the Executive Gala Committee served as hosts of the black-tie event, including Rania Daniel, Zeina Fares, Vahid Kooros, Sima Ladjevardian, Sultana Mangalji, Franci Neely, Cenk Ozdogan, Sabiha Rehmatulla, Aliyya Stude, and Monsour Taghdisi, along with underwriters The Honorable and Mrs. Hushang Ansary, Jaleh and Bruce Sallee, Rania and Jamal Daniel, and Mona and Andrew Sarofim. s

Whirling Dervish performs

Bobby and Phoebe Tudor

Arshad and Shazma Matin

Sabiha Rehmatulla, Sima Ladjevardian, Rania Daniel and Monsour Taghdisi

Scott Arnoldy, Akbar Mohamed and Salim Zakhem

Aimee Froom and Alexandre Levy-Thiebaut

Gaudrie and Simin Bannister & Kesiha and Felix Phillips

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Brigitte and Bashar Kalai

Christopher Gardner and Gary Tinterow

r.s.v.p. san antonio

on the wild side Zoo Ball’s The Polar Express Rolls Into San Antonio By Leanne Raesener | Photography by Greg Harrison

Luciano Ramirez, Tony Parker and Axelle Francine Parker Charles and Kelly Leddy

THE SETTING: Fittingly, Mother Nature provided a perfect winter cold snap for the San Antonio Zoo's 37th Annual Zoobillation themed, The Polar Express. Dipping temperatures brought out more than 800 prominent patrons and philanthropic community leaders donning glamourous winter fashions. Brackenridge Park's newest narrow-gauge engine was on display outside the reception tent to carry on the legacy of the San Antonio Zoo's 1956 Eagle, and a phenomenal locomotive ice sculpture greeted the guests inside. Before a delectable dinner, guests ambled through the zoo's annual enchanting light displays to join a buzzing reception filled with a wealth of generously donated silent auction holiday gift opportunities. The new locomotive welcomed all into the main dining area in an outside foyer resplendent with silver and blue scenes creating a genuinely magical esplanade under a canopy of the best snow flurries one can expect in San Antonio.

THE STYLE: Inside a real star-

Tara and James Sykes & William and Jayme Russell

John and Laurie White & Peggy and Dan Allen Hughes

The SA Zoo CEO Tim Morrow welcomed Jayme and William Russell, the event’s chairs, through the grand entrance. The Russells outlined the strides the zoo has made, where it stands, and where it is going―from the new exhibits, the Will Smith Zoo School, and Kiddie Park, to the new train engine. They also highlighted the zoo’s primary purpose, which is to educate, awe, entertain, and spotlight the exceptional leadership, business partnerships, and generous patrons building legacies for tomorrow.

Jake and Kim Aalfs, Callie Ramirez and Dr. Stephen Ramirez

Tony Parker, a Zoo board member, joined Morrow on stage to spur on dynamic live auction support with impromptu friendly banter. Guests supported the auction with seasonal generosity and all the energy of San Antonio's very own Polar Express.

Tara Allman, Hope Roth and Shane Evans

Jamie Kawalski & Randy and Kay Harig

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filled night, laced silver accents were throughout the room and across all the tables. Custom passports offered guests access to their own imaginations on the express across time and into their childhoods.

Mills and Angelica Palm

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THE PURPOSE: The San Antonio Zoo, through its passion and expertise in animal care, conservation, and education, commits to inspiring its community to love, engage with, act for, and protect animals and the places they live. The zoo welcomes more than a million visitors each year and is open year-round. s

Fred and Raven Labatt

Kara Farnsworth, Pam Havens, Jalene Muhr and Sheila Barrett

Tony Parker

Mandy Miceli, Allen Crowder and Cliff Buech

Sarah Jessop and Tarah Sykes

Elena Rollandi, Jessica Berg and Jennifer Soltis

Zeba Yusuf, Evelyn Greenhouse, Nini Hale and Laura Whalen

Ben Ruttenberg and Doren Fein

Dos and Samantha Gates & Gini and Joey Disabato

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April and Fred Allison

Norma and Fernando Reyes

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r.s.v.p. dallas

tell it to my heart Taylor Dayne Headlines Fundraiser For Seventh Annual Unlikely Heroes Gala By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Thomas Garza

THE SETTING: More than 400 sup-

Taylor Dayne, Cassadee Pope, Anjelha Johnson, Erica Greve, LeeAnne Locken and Cathy Kelley

Shaun and Val Alexander

THE STYLE: Cassadee Pope, winner of The Voice, kicked off the evening with selections from her new album. Guests were then warmly welcomed by the evening’s hosts, comedian Anjelah Johnson and Real Housewives of Dallas personality, LeeAnne Locken. Rebecca Bender shared her very personal story of recovery. Unlikely Heroes CEO and Founder, Erica Greve, then announced the integration of Elevate Academy into the daily work of Unlikely Heroes and that in addition to expanding the program across the country, local in-person chapters of Elevate Extended launches this spring.

Rebecca Bender and Cathy Kelley

Kellie Rasberry and Cynthia Smoot

Melissa and Tye Strickland

Rich Emberlin and LeeAnne Locken

Lauren Grogan, Janet Jensen and Jacky Alvaradejo

Taylor Dayne

Psyche and Vontoba Terry

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porters gathered at The Ritz CarltonDallas for the seventh annual Recognizing Heroes Awards Dinner charity benefit. Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening that featured a live musical performance by three-time Grammy®-nominated pop icon, Taylor Dayne, and red carpet arrivals with special guests. The exclusive VIP cocktail reception hosted by Melissa Rycroft, and a silent auction made the evening ever so special.

THE PURPOSE: Since 2011, Unlikely Heroes has rescued hundreds of children, and their journey to freedom starts in one of their six restoration homes located around the world. The experienced Unlikely Heroes teams are on the ground in the United States, Mexico, Thailand and the Philippines, providing the very best in restorative care, safe housing, education, life skills, medical care, counseling, stability and love to every single child for whom they care. s

Taylor Dayne performs Ivo and Natalie Backman Spirova

Rebekah Charleston, Rebecca Bender and Leah Albright

Erica Greve and Taylor Dayne

Steve Kemble and Chad Collom

Rebecca Bender, Kathy Bryan, Jeri Moomaw, Erik Gray, Leah Albright and Rebekah Charlestona

Ryan and Kelle Sherpy

Cassadee Pope

Noel and Vanessa Bouchè

Anjelah Johnson

Gary and Janet Greve

Candace Payne

MARCH/APRIL 2020

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The modern woman is a boss. She’s large and in charge of her own destiny. That’s why we love the powerful floral and 80s trends reflected in this season’s fashion frenzy. Familiar and comforting, fashion is the ultimate expression of the art collection that you wear. So, why not be a work of art this spring with this gorgeous inspiration to keep you blossoming from dusk ‘til dawn? Photography by Mark Oberlin

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Styling by Dion “Bleu” Drake

Hair: René Cortez using Oribe Maximista and Ibiza round brush. Makeup: Tatiyana Elias using Olio E Osso and Odacite Makeup Assistant: Katie Grigg Model: Ceca, Two Management Sittings Producer: Lance Avery Morgan

SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE

Dress by Olvi’s, $1248, at The Garden Room. Earrings by Kat Ong $240, at Kat Ong. Bag by Simitri, $392, at The Garden Room.

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GARDEN OF DELIGHT

Dress by Valentino, $6,900, at Neiman Marcus. Shoes by Aquazurra, $1390, at The Webster. Opposite:

YOUTH’S FOUNTAIN

Top, $975 and skirt, $1375, by Dolce & Gabbana at Neiman Marcus. Earrings by Melody Ehsani, $600, at Melody Ehsani. Shoes by Femme Sans Peur, $1500, at FSPWorld.com.

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A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME

Dress by Byron Lars, $868, at The Garden Room. Shoes by Aquazurra, $1390, at The Webster. Opposite

FLOWER CHILD

Dress by Marchesa Notte, $795, at Julian Gold. Choker, $80, at The Jewelry Bae.

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BORN TO THE MANOR Gown by Carmen Marc Valvo, $595, at Julian Gold.

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FLORAL FANTASY

Dress by Marc Jacobs, $1200, at Neiman Marcus. Choker, price upon request, at Jewelry Bar USA. Bracelet $220 by Ruby Stella at RubyStella.com. Opposite

HEROINE CHIC

Gown by Naeem Khan, $2495, at Julian Gold. Earrings by Kat Ong at Kat Ong. Shoes by Stuart Weitzman, $1280, at Stuart Weitzman.

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AIX

MARKS THE SPOT Fra nce is such a v ita l p a rt of chic Europea n c u ltu re . Join our intrep i d t ra vel er Rose B etty W i l l i a m s as she jets to the Proven c e re g i o n . . . a n d with her five-sta r point o f v i e w recommends on l y t h e ve r y best for y our n ex t v is it. Photog ra phy courtesy of a uthor's own, a rchival

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C CINEMATIC BEAUTY

WHEN DEAR FRIENDS ASKED MY HUSBAND AND ME IF WE wanted to go to Provence and share a villa with them, we jumped at the opportunity. I bought and borrowed guide books about Provence. I also binge-read Peter Mayle's books A Year In Provence and Toujours Provence, Susan Vreeland's Lisette’s List, and Lost Carousels of Provence by Juliet Blackwell. I also watched movies about Provence such as A Good Year starring Russell Crowe, Loving Vincent and Lust For Life starring Robert Gubczyk and Kirk Douglas, respectively, as Vincent Van Gogh.

We flew from Austin to Marseilles and then drove to Aix en Provence, which we felt was not only centrally located, but also the perfect spot to begin our exploration of Provence. We loved le Pigonnet, our fantastic hotel in Aix. Our accommodations were charming with a balcony and windows that commanded spectacular views of Mont Sainte-Victoire, the mountain that Paul Cezanne depicted over and over again in his paintings.

We relaxed in le Pigonnet’s stunning Versailles-like gardens and enjoyed a light repast of Provençal cheese, fresh fruit, black tanche and green picholine olives, olive tapenade, local charcuterie, and an assortment of bread and crackers. The sunny skies and comfortable September temperatures of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit were ideal and a short five-minute leisurely walk to Aix's city center beckoned, but we chose instead to listen from chaise lounge chairs to the live music performed in the open air bar and to go to bed early. The next morning we were ready to explore. We engaged the services of Tours By Locals for private tours of the hilltop villages of the Luberon. Our superb guide, Nathalie Clairault, met us at 8am in the hotel lobby. Even though she had already advised us to wear layers and comfortable walking shoes, she gave us a quick inspection, and then strongly urged me to get my raincoat, and my husband, his hat. The weather and wind, or mistral, can change very quickly in Provence. The mistral is a strong, cold wind that often exceeds 40 mph. More about the mistral later.

We drove to the southernmost Luberon village of Lourmarin to see the Renaissance Chateau de Lourmarin. When we entered the Chateau from one of its many large courtyard terraces, we were astonished by the decorated fountains, flowers and pools, and the sweeping views of vineyards, olive groves and almond trees. That explained why the Chateau is a favorite venue for weddings, special events, music and art festivals, and why Winston Churchill set up his easel there to paint. I was fascinated by the musical instruments that I thought were just for display but found out later are used regularly for concerts and recitals.

in town. We went to the Caveau, also known as the tasting room, and of course, tasted and bought several reds and a couple of Rosés, all reasonably priced and delicious. Our next stop was lunch. We went to La Bergerie that is located in a pastoral park setting surrounded by woods and lavender fields, and has suites, rooms, a spa and pool, and offers cooking lessons. We dined on an extraordinary truffle pizza, a goat cheese and ham platter, a mushroom tartine, a beef carpaccio and artichoke candied with lemon olive oil, and the most delicious fleurs de courgettes—stuffed and fried zucchini flowers– all specialties of Michelin 2-star Chef Edouard Loubet. I ordered a pastis to drink, but alas, didn't like it–too licorice-y for me. We easily could have napped by the pool but we had to work off the calories. Bonnieux is a high-perched village located on the northern slopes of the Luberon across from Lacoste. The Vielle Eglise, which means old church, is a 12th-century Romanesque and Gothic styled 1400-foot high church at the top of Bonnieux and the village's most identifiable landmark. To visit it requires a steep climb up 86-stone steps, which without good walking shoes and if the mistral is blowing, can be very treacherous. Nevertheless, the climb is definitely worth it. The old church, also known as the high church, is small but the views are incredible. Quite a few of the trees around the church show the effects of the mistral. They lean sharply to one side and look very eerie. The new church also known as the low church, incidentally, was built when villagers didn't want to make the climb from the valley below. Another interesting site in Bonnieux is the Louve Gardens, a private French contemporary garden open to the public, but privately owned, and created in 1986 by Nicole de Vésian, the textile designer for the Paris fashion house of Hermès. La Louve, by the way, means She-Wolf, and should not be confused with Musée du Louvre. cont'd...

When we entered the Chateau from one of its many large courtyard terraces, we were astonished by the decorated fountains, flowers and pools, and From Lourmarin, we drove to Bonnieux. En route, we saw the Pont Julien, a three-arched 215-foot bridge built by the Romans in 3 B.C. and named the sweeping views of vineyards, for Julius Caesar. We also visited the Chateau la Canorgue Winery, which was where A Good Year was filmed. Clairault regaled us with stories about olive groves and almond trees. the transformation of this immaculate winery and chateau for the film and about Crowe, whom she called The Gladiator, eating, drinking and "more"

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Chateau la Canorgue wine

Welcome reception at les Maussane Alpilles

Chateau la Canorgue Vineyard

Chateau de Lourmarin

Mont Sainte Victoire (Cezanne’s Mountain)

Winston Churchill at the Chateau de Lourmarin, late 1950s

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The ochre-colored buildings of Roussilion.jpg

Pont du Gard

French-milled soap from Provence

The market in Aix

le Pigonnet Gardens

Hilltop village of Gordes

The Ochre Cliffs

Le Cafe La Nuit

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OMNIPOTENT OCHRE We drove to Roussillon. This Luberon village sits atop Mont Rouge and is situated in the heart of one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world and is famous for its magnificent red cliffs. We had every intention of hiking the Ochre Cliffs Trail but the mistral was too strong and the trail was closed. That did not stop us from enjoying the many shops, galleries and picturesque maze of streets and squares. The red and orange ochre facades of the buildings and the brightly painted shutters and doors make Rousillon a magical mosaic of color and charm. In a gallery on Rue Richard Casteau, my husband and I were drawn to a few paintings that depicted familiar scenes. It turns out the artist Francoise Valenti came to Texas and painted the Hill Country. She now has a growing Texas fan club and for good reason–her paintings are lush with color and movement. We considered buying one but found another painting at the nearby Galerie Porte Heureuse that really appealed to us. Not sure how we'd transport it, we decided to exchange contact info and follow up later, and indeed we did. When we returned to the US, the gallery sent us photos of a stunning landscape of Maussane les Alpilles and we bought it. From Roussillon we went to Lacoste. The Savannah College of Art and Design has a campus there comprised of 40-plus houses where students live and study for a trimester. Fashion designer Pierre Cardin, who now owns much of the village and resides in the lower part of the Marquis de Sade Castle, helps sponsor an end-of-trimester fashion and art event for the students and also sponsors a summer opera festival. We talked to a student from New Orleans who explained that many of the buildings in Lacoste are closed because Cardin purchased them to store his enormous collections but that his collections are not managed, maintained nor available for public viewing. Nevertheless, it is a treat to visit the castle and admire both Cardin's renovations and the large sculptures on the property. The word sadism, incidentally, comes from the Marquis de Sade's notorious pornographic novels and his alleged evil “Sade”-istic behavior. Also, stone that is currently being used to help rebuild Notre Dame comes from a quarry in Lacoste that is worth visiting. We went to Gordes next. It was an active resistance village in WWII and where Marc Chagall and his wife hid from the Nazis. Gordes is the stunning setting for the movies Mistral’s Daughter, A Year In Provence and Mr. Bean’s Holiday, among others. It is interesting to note that in the Luberon, each village has rules regarding the colors of buildings and the shape of roof tops. Homes built in Bonnieux have to have terra cotta rounded tile roof tops. New buildings in Gordes must be made of stone and use terracotta roof tiles. No fences are allowed, only stone walls. With a few exceptions, all electrical and telephone cables have to be put underground. In Roussillon, natural ochre–red, orange and yellow, not synthetic ochre colors of blue and purple–must be used on the outside. Also, throughout the Luberon, calade limestone tiles that were first used by the Romans are still used today. Roadways are paved with long stones placed vertically with their sides facing upwards to help

with drainage and to enable traffic circulation in all seasons. The steps leading up to Bonnieux’s Vielle Eglise are calade as are some of the streets in Gordes and Uzès. After our private tours in the Luberon, we decided to self-guide in Aixen-Provence. We visited Cezanne’s Atelier, the Hotel de Caumont and the Musée Granet. We loved seeing Cezanne’s studio, watched the video of his life, ate lunch at Les Deux Garcons on Cours Mirabeau (the ChampsÉlysées of Aix), and were stunned beyond words at our good fortune at being able to see the Solomon Guggenheim Thannhauser Collection From Manet to Picasso on loan to the Hotel de Caumont. We could have spent days there. The exhibit and the Caumont Centre d’Art are phenomenal. Our villa in Maussane les Alpilles was the next stop. Villa Jolie is gorgeous with private quarters for four couples, a kitchen and a large living-dining area, a pool and very tranquil surroundings overlooking vineyards, olive groves and les Alpilles. Laurence Vedder of Exclusive Resorts arranged a welcome snack for us that was almost too beautiful to eat, but eat we did, enjoying every delicacy and a couple of bottles of divine Cotes du Rhone and Gigondas wine.

À VOTRE SANTÉ

In the early morning we drove to Domaine de la Verriere, owned by my friend Nicole Rolet and her husband Xavier Rolet. La Verriere is a majestic estate and winery nestled in the foothills of Mont Ventoux in Crestet that produces the award-winning Chêne Bleu wines. We toured the organic vineyard and the state-of-the-art winery, learned about the history and terroir, tasted Chêne Bleu’s critically acclaimed Abelard and Heloise, Super Rhone, Viognier, and Rosé wines, and then enjoyed a Farm to Fork luncheon with Chêne Bleu wine that was expertly paired to complement each course. Absolutely delightful. cont'd...

The red and orange ochre facades of the buildings and the brightly painted shutters and doors make Roussillon a magical mosaic of color and charm. 119

The following day we immersed ourselves in everything Van Gogh. We started with a visit to the Carrieres de Lumieres in Les Baux. Van Gogh’s clouds, suns, stars, portraits–his greatest masterpieces–are brought to life on cave walls that are more than 16-yards high and also on the cave floor and ceiling. It was a visual and musical tour de force. The constantly changing projections of Van Gogh’s most famous canvases illuminated the enormous Carrieres space and the accompanying sound gave every visitor the opportunity to journey into Van Gogh’s very “emotional, chaotic and poetic inner world”. The paintings pulsated with color and depth and gave me an entirely new perspective and admiration for Van Gogh's genius. This experience for me was truly one of the most memorable highlights of our trip. I hope to return for the next exhibit that opens in March 2020 and will feature the art of Monet, Renoir and Chagall. Fantastique. We went to Arles and ate lunch at the Café la Nuit depicted in Van Gogh's painting of the same name. The restaurant is definitely a tourist trap and the food very mediocre, but it was kind of fun to be there anyway. We visited Espace Van Gogh, the site of the hospital where Van Gogh was admitted after he cut off a portion of his ear. It has classrooms, a library and surrounds a courtyard that Van Gogh often painted. Then we visited St. Paul Monastery and Hospital in St. Remy where Van Gogh as part of his therapy produced more than 100 paintings. We visited a replica of his room and could see the same views he painted more than 120 years ago. The hospital still treats patients today with art therapy. No visit to St. Remy would be complete without going to its chic boutiques, especially the store Souleiado, considered by the fashion savvy to be the unofficial ambassador of Provence with gorgeous dresses, blouses, skirts and home décor items, in vibrant fabrics that showcase the culture and traditions of the region. The next day we visited Moulin Castelas, an olive mill at the foot of the Chateau des Baux. We toured the facility, “blind” tasted the olive oils and learned which flavors, aromas and complexity most appealed to us. No surprise, my husband loved the ail (garlic) olive oil. I loved the Classic AOC Provence. I bought two cans. Yes–cans because I didn't want bottles to break in my suitcase. I definitely will order more but in the meantime, Central Market carries a couple of selections of Castelinas Olive Oil. AOC, which means Appellation d’Origine Controlee, is found on the labels of wine and olive oil bottles and is the government’s seal of approval that the wine or olive oil has met specific requirements. AOP on olive oil labels means Protected Appellation of Origin and refers to the specificities of a terroir: geographical area, climate, geology, olive varieties, and know-how.

ROME’S LEGACY Our next day consisted of Avignon, Uzès and the Pont du Garde. Rome’s lasting legacy is evident everywhere. Avignon is busier, grander and more urban than the Luberon villages. It was the capital of Christendom for nearly a century beginning in 1309 when the French Pope Clement V left Rome for the security of Avignon. Nearly three miles of walls and 39 towers were constructed for added protection, and the Palais des Papes was built with 10-foot thick walls, large ceremonial rooms and accommodations for 500 people. Seven popes

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lived in the Palais until 1403. In 1378, however, the Catholic Church had two popes, one in Rome and the other in Avignon. Eventually, Rome prevailed. Today the Palais is pretty much empty of its original furnishings and paintings. We were given "Histopads" (like tablets) to help us imagine what each room probably looked like. We were impressed with the Romanesque cathedral next to–and also predating–the Palais. Its modest simplicity provided us a serene and comfortable place for prayer, meditation and rest. Seeing the Pont d'Avignon, also known as Pont St. Benezet, was a sentimental and surprising experience. As a child I sang the nursery tune, "Sur le Pont d'Avignon, on y danse, on y danse, sur le Pont d'Avignon, on y danse tous en rond", which means, "On the bridge of Avignon, we will dance, we will dance, on the bridge of Avignon, we will dance all in a circle." Not sure what I expected but I was surprised that the bridge ends halfway across the Rhone. That's because only four of the original 22 arches of this half-mile long bridge exist today. The Jardin du Rocher des Doms is on a bluff overlooking Pont St. Benezet and is a great place to take photos. We could see the shuttle boat going to the Ile de la Barthelass, an island retreat in the middle of the river. We could also see Mont Ventoux, which means Windy Mountain. It is known as the Giant of Provence or Bald Mountain because its barren peak appears from a distance to be snow-capped but is actually bare limestone without vegetation or trees due to the mistral that on average on the summit blows more than 56 miles per hour, 240 days a year. We drove to Uzès that for us was a welcome break from the more touristy and bustling Avignon. Nevertheless, because we were there on a Saturday and that's market day, we wandered through a labyrinth of stalls and shopped for lavender, soap, ochre, textiles, nic-nacs, and looked at the fruit, veggies, cheese, breads and meats that were a kaleidoscope of color, texture and aroma, and made us hungry. We stopped for gelato in a café shaded by big Plane trees. Uzès dates back to Roman times. All the buildings are made with the same pale and porous limestone and have beautiful ornamental fountains. However, it's Uzès' location near the source of the spring that fed the very important Roman Pont du Gard aqueduct that give it real historical significance. The Romans built the 30-mile long Pont du Gard in the first century A.D. It is considered one of the best preserved Roman ruins anywhere and has the largest main arch ever built by the Romans–80 feet, which is the width of the Gardon River. It is hard to believe the Romans didn't use mortar to build the arch, and that the Port du Gard supplied the city of Nimes with nine million gallons of water every day. What a remarkable engineering feat. When we returned to the United States, we reflected on the history and beauty of Provence and were exhilarated by our memories of the extraordinary food, wine, art, architecture, sunshine, and people of the region. Beyond c'est magnifique. s

The constantly changing projections of Van Gogh’s most famous canvases illuminated the enormous Carrieres space...

St. Benezet bridge in Avignon

St. Paul Monastery and Hospital in Saint Remy

Vincent van Gogh exhibit in Carrieres de Lumieres in Les Baux

Souleiado boutique in St. Remy

La Verriere and Chene Bleu vineyards

Chene Bleu wines

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COURTING GLAMOUR Palm Beach’s Brazilian Court Hotel offers the perfect celebrity-style getaway with old school Hollywood glam, according to our fun seeker, Rob Giardinelli. Photography courtesy of Brazilian Court, author’s own

Brazilian Court entrance

HERE IS SO MUCH TO LOVE ABOUT THE BRAZILIAN

Best of all, it is a place where you can unplug and recharge…without the jetlag. Yes,

Court Hotel, located in the heart of charming Palm

JetSet without the jetlag.

Beach. It’s one of the East Coast’s premier, five-star destinations...a beautiful boutique hotel that offers luxury mixed in with Old Hollywood glamour. Founded in 1926, and restored to its original Roaring 20’s elegance, this 80room resort is the perfect destination for a host of luxe

activities ranging from quick, ritzy getaways to weddings for a hundred guests or so.

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The great thing about Palm Beach is that it is easily accessible from the four largest cities in Texas. While Dallas and Houston residents can fly into Palm Beach directly, Austin and San Antonio residents can fly to Ft. Lauderdale, as we did via a quick two-hour flight on JetBlue from Austin. Leaving no detail unturned, the team at the Brazilian Court arranged, after we landed,

Poolside at Brazilian Court

The Conservatory at Brazilan Court

Brazilain Court courtyard

to have for Go Rentals, a luxury car rental company to have our car waiting with an attendant outside arrivals. Popping into our luxury SUV, we jetted up I-95, and in about 45 minutes, we were arrived at the famed Brazilian Court. JAZZ AGE REDUX Located in a residential neighborhood, we pulled into the Brazilian Court’s porte-cochère, which had the feeling of pulling into a grand Jazz Age estate, and we were promptly greeted by the valet and escorted inside to check-in. The staff, friendly and attentive, offered a series of can’t-miss recommendations that we tried out during our stay. The porter escorted us through a stunning, leafy outdoor courtyard to our room. As we walked through the halls, we saw miles of walls adorned with vintage photos of celebrities who frequented these halls from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Our accommodations were a chic, bungalow-style room, with a massive private terrace to enjoy the beautiful weather. After unpacking, famished, we strolled two blocks for dinner at Renato’s. It was an authentic Italian restaurant with an alfresco patio that reminded me of the delectable meals I had on my honeymoon in Rome and Venice... with the Risotto all’Aragosta being a highlight. Overhearing someone from

another table mention there was a gelato place next door; we dropped into Piccolo Gelato for a light, refreshing dessert. Against the backdrop of year ‘round picturesque weather, we savored our sweet treat as we walked to Buccan for a night-cap. An outstanding restaurant in its own right, our concierge, had recommended Buccan as the place where people in Palm Beach go to see and be seen whether it be for dinner or drinks. In the crowded and lively bar, we found two seats from another couple who finished grabbing a late supper and we toasted our first night in Palm Beach with a delectable Buccan T martini and smoked jalapeno margarita. After a splendid night’s sleep in a king-sized bed with luxe linens, I woke up the next morning, foregoing breakfast and taking advantage of the Brazilian Court Fitness Center to burn off those calories from the night before. The gym, located in a building across the street from the main hotel, has everything you need to stay fit with treadmills, elliptical machines, free weights and medicine balls. After my workout, we took a tour of this grand hotel with Ian Black, the director of sales and marketing. In touring the space, we learned more about the hotel’s incredible history. Designed by the legendary architect,

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Brazilian Court

The scene on Worth Avenue

Lily Pulitzer wear in Palm Beach copy

Renato's restaurant, Palm Beach

Café Boulud at Brazilian Court

Palm Beach

A suite at Brazilian Court

Osario Candella, the Spanish-style resort is built through not one, but two courtyards–one built upon completion of the original hotel in 1926 and a second one added in 1936. WORTH IT The current owners purchased the property in 2002 and set out to restore the hotel to its original grandeur, with some of the rooms maintaining a true 20s authenticity. In fact, there are even USB-free room options available for those who truly want to unplug and get away from it all, just like the celebrities who frequented the hotel during the 1920s and 1930s. Many of the suites are aptly named for the plethora of celebrities that occupied them, including: Katherine Hepburn, Fred Astaire, Douglas Fairbanks and Texas-born Joan Crawford, just to name a few. The main reason celebrities and notables frequent the Brazilian Court, then and now, is its close proximity to the action of the main attractions of Palm Beach such as tony Worth Avenue and The Breakers, yet it is far enough away from everything for notables to slip in and out undetected.

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After our tour, we strolled down to Worth Avenue, the world-renowned shopping district of Palm Beach. First, everyone is beautifully dressed in brightly-hued colors year ‘round. Second, that attention to detail is evident everywhere in Palm Beach. Located only three blocks from the Brazilian Court, we did some window shopping at many of the luxury brands, including Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., and Salvatore Ferragamo before finding a bite for lunch at Ta-boo. Known as the power-lunch place of Palm Beach, we saw that the much-coveted window-front table was available and popped into the restaurant to dine. The window-front table proved to be the perfect spot to people watch as the chic shoppers strolled up and down Worth Avenue, among them a legendary, Academy Award®-winning actor from the British Isles. While there, we enjoyed the mussel frites and Cobb salad, each the perfect midday bite to keep us going. After lunch, we headed back to the hotel for an afternoon of pool-side lounging and siesta while the gentle breeze of the palm trees swayed overhead. There are so many characters who stay at this hotel that eavesdropping the varied conversations of fellow guests is a true

Café Boulud at Brazilian Court

Brazilian Court Pool

The Rita Hayworth Suite living room at Brazilian Court

the most delectable dessert I have ever experienced at any restaurant, a transcendent grapefruit sorbet, which served as the perfect palate cleanser to an absolutely delectable meal.

Taboo

Brazilian Court's TV Loggia

pastime here. During the afternoon, the hotel staff arranged for a treatment at the Brazilian Court Salon, where I was treated to my first, and very best, mani-pedi. DINING DELUXE We ended the day staying at The Brazilian Court and dined at Café Boulud, the award-winning restaurant of celebrity chef Daniel Boulud. A mainstay in the Palm Beach dining scene since 2003, with additional locations in New York and Toronto, it would impress the most delicate of palettes. Opting for a table alfvresco to take advantage of the picturesque evening, we enjoyed the five-course tasting menu and wine pairing. The tasting menu, which changes seasonally, offered red pepper risotto and one of my favorite fish dishes, pan-seared grouper. The meal was capped off with

Waking up early on our final morning in Palm Beach, we decided to walk to Ocean Drive and up and down the blocks of estates along the Atlantic Ocean for which Palm Beach is famous. Walking down street after street of the eight-figure Gatsby-eque homes, we could see Old Hollywood influences in many of the homes, which had a Beverly Hills vibe and made me wonder how many of the stars of yesteryear stumbled from the estates’ parties to the Brazilian Court after a night of revelry. Before taking off for the airport, we decided to grab a final bite at Surfside Diner. Located just a block from the Brazilian Court, it is a small, chic space with an old-style u-shaped counter in the middle. If you want to see a place that offers a slice of what life in Palm Beach is like among the locals, this is the place to go. We saw the proprietor engaging with regulars from 8 to 88, giving each guest the white-glove treatment for which Palm Beach is known. After our meal, we bid adieu to Palm Beach, where our 48-hours felt like a week. So, the next time you are looking for a quick getaway from Texas to a beautiful, intimate and familiar resort, you must check out the Brazilian Court for a wonderful experience. I cannot wait for my next visit to this paradise. s

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r.s.v.p. houston

bello italiano

THE SETTING: When over 600 guests

Festari’s Una Notte Event Hosts Annual Event Supporting Houston Area Women's Center By Jennifer Roosth | Photography by Daniel Ortiz and Quy Tran

Kara and Lance McCullers

Nick and Sneha Merchant with Rachel and Jeff Bagwell

Debbie and Rudy Festari

DJ Reader, Jeff Bagwell and Cullen Gillaspia

Chris and Abigal Venegas

Drs. Marc and Duyen Nguyen

Nick Florescu and Dominique Sachse

attended the annual Una Notte in Italia, A Night in Italy, "celebrity" men's fashion show and gala where philanthropic men and local athletes walk the runway on behalf of the charity, they knew they were in for a treat. The foyer and ballroom at the Omni Houston Hotel were draped in all things Italian, including elaborate topiaries, vines, candelabras, and a stunning backdrop on the runway with a handsome, contemporary image of Michelangelo's David. Vibrant red roses and seasonal greenery provided beautiful framed photo ops as guests entered the gala before the big night.

THE STYLE: The fun-filled fête began with a lively cocktail hour that was complete with silent auction and premier bar along with specialty tequilas provided by Riazul. Once guests were seated in the ballroom, the handsome gents took to the catwalk in fabulous fashions provided by Rudy Festari of Festari for Men. The stellar line-up included Drs. Kota Reddy and Matthew Harbison, attorneys James Lassiter and Kent Schaffer, restauranteur Ben Berg, jewelers Tony Bradfield and Kevin Black, businessmen Rick Perez, Danny Brown, Nick Merchant, Bill Baldwin, and Pablo Delgado, to name a few. The finale featured Houston Texans players Cullen Gillaspia, DJ Reader, and Justin Reid and Astros pitcher Lance McCullers and Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell, as confetti and roses were thrown from the cheering crowd. Guests then enjoyed a multi-course Italian meal complete with Italian wines, of course, as the live auction began. To close the evening’s activities, guests made their way to the newly renovated Black Swan club within the hotel to dance the night away.

THE PURPOSE: The evening was

Rachel Bagwell, Debbie Festari and Sneha Merchant

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Dr. John and Lori Bergeron

Rudy Festari and Danny Brown

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emceed by television anchor Dominique Sachse, and was co-chaired by Rachel Bagwell and Sneha Merchant, with Debbie Festari serving as honorary chair. This year's event raised close to $400,000 on behalf of Houston Area Women's Center, an agency that provides hope and healing from the effects of domestic and sexual violence. s

Nick Merchant

Tony Buzbee, Frances Moody & Jennifer and Chad Pinkerton Melissa Mithoff and Melissa Juneau

Sam Windsor, Raquel Fatiuk and Justin Reid

Fady Armanious, Hallie Vanderhider and Bill Baldwin

Adrian Duenas, Nina Magon, Marcelo Saenz & Carrie Brandsberg-Dahl

Jo and Jim Furr

Tiffany Wong and Tatiana Green

Jordan Frazier and Jennifer Roosth

Jane Wagner, Brandon McClendon and Nicole Lassiter

Rachel and Jeff Bagwell

Andre Hal, Rudy Festari, DJ Reader, Justin Reid

Lance McCullers

Neal Hamil and Courtney Hopson

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Anu and Koda Reddy & Sippi and Ajay Khurana

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the artful set AIN Art+Fashion+Community Event Highlights Dallas-Based Artists By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Danny Campbell and Marcus Perryman

THE

Silent Auction T-shirt by Don Morphy

Allison Volk, Jessica Cade, Lea Fisher and Cassie Taylor

Cristina Graham, Wes Smoot, Gary Riggs and Tammany Stern Ana Pettus, Ken Weber, Heidi Dillon and Brian McCulloch

Cynthia Smoot and Jerry Delgado

Amy Marshall and Sara Offringa

Dee Holly, Michael Brennan, J.R. Hernandes, Peter Grimmett and Steven Tai

Joni Wysocki, Miranda Grant and Steven Pace

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Nejra Kurtanovic, Adisa Kurtanovic and Jenna Jenavich

Dan Pritchett and Dawn Mellon

Daniel Mofor

Don Gaiser and Steve Lopez

Tama Tran and Yana Greenstein

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SETTING: AIN (Access & Information Network) recently hosted a new event, Art+Fashion+Community, which was welcomed with open arms to a sold-out crowd with presenting sponsor AHF. It was a meeting of the minds that brought together an exhibition of the who’s who in the art and fashion world. Guests were treated to an array of photography, paintings, sculpture, and fashions from six local designers. Models, poised on pedestals, were transformed into works of art in the Samuel Lynne Galleries. Designers included Project Runway alum Venny Etienne, Don Morphy, Julie McCullough, Amy Marshall, Loren Franco, and Arnulfo Villa. Amy Marshall’s collection took everyone’s breath away with her 1981 collection about the outbreak of AIDS in the community.

THE STYLE: Guests strolled through the gallery while being treated to hors d’oeuvres from Doug Boster Catering and drinks from Hell’s Half Acres vodka and Community Beer Co. Guests could also bid on one-of-a-kind T-shirts designed by artists including Tyler Shields, Cristi Meril, JD Miller and Project Runway darlings Daniel Esquivel and Lela Orr. THE

PURPOSE: The event was chaired by Lea Fisher, Ken Weber & JR Hernandez. For over 30 years, AIN been a leading healthcare resource for persons living with HIV and other vulnerable populations in the Dallas region. The organization serves over 2,000 diagnosed low-income men, women and youths by distributing over 140,000 rides annually to medical and social services. It also provides 25,000 hot meals every year through its nutrition program. s

r.s.v.p. san antonio

viva celebration San Antonio Public Library Foundation’s Annual Catrina Ball By Leanne Raesener | Photography by Chris Cantoya and Kelly Jo Johnson

THE SETTING: San Antonio’s Central

Library, located in the heart of downtown, was transformed into a vibrant night market, complete with gourmet street food cuisine and musical entertainment to raise funds for the San Antonio Public Library Foundation (SAPLF) and the Texana/ Genealogy Department. This annual black-tie affair celebrates Dias de los Muertos and raises essential operating funds to sustain the SAPLF and the San Antonio Public Library system.

THE STYLE: Guests were welcomed

into the fête by Neiman Marcus models, sculptures from artist Pompa Art, the musical stylings of Mojo Rimba, a student-led marimba group playing popular songs, and dance performances by the Adelitas. Guests were treated to a feast for the eyes and their palates as they encountered delicious cuisine, musical vignettes, stilt walkers, entertainers, and tequila sipping bars that were placed throughout the library for guests to discover as they explored the beautiful space.

Mari Tamez, Magdalena Gaona and Ruth Agather

Kathy Kelleher, Cathy Nixon Atherton and Liecie Hollis Rocio Heller and Dolores Cuellar

The afterparty, held on the second floor of the Central Library, was a fabulous end to an evening of fun and frivolity as guests danced the night away around an incredible two-story Chihuly Fiesta Tower to the music of Henry Brun and the Latin Playerz Orchestra. The event’s top donors were treated to a Neiman Marcus and Veuve Clicquot lounge.

THE Xitlalt Herrera-Salazar, Gabriel Rivera Barraza and Ana Paula Watson

Tawana Timberlake and Michael Quintanilla

Jenna Saucedo Herrera, Carmen Lara, Lisa Andrade Gonima and Francisco Gonima

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Christina Notzon Jafar, Hunter Henke, Margie Vera and Sal Jafar, II

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PURPOSE: Ruth Agather, Magdalena Gaona, and Mari Tamez chaired the event. This event honored Andi Rodriguez as La Catrina and Guillermo Nicolás as El Catrin. This year, proceeds were also raised to provide a generous gift of additional funding to support the Central Library’s Texana/ Genealogy Department and transform the entire sixth floor of the Library into a world-class Texana Resource Center. The San Antonio Public Library Foundation’s mission is to strengthen the library in service to our community. s

Bill Zbieskowski and Tracey Bennett Alexandra Cavazos, Marissa Garcia, Diana Trevino, Magadalena Gaona and Maricita Garcia

Rex Hausmann, Rebecca Barrera, Allen Barber, Judge Daniel Guerrero and Arturo Infante Almeida

Mark Watson and Ramiro Salazar

Mills and Angelica Palm, Katie Cigarroa and Dr. Joaquin Cigarroa

Ralph and Nancy Lehr & David and Meredith Alvarez

Bobe Deleon and Brianna Simmons

Erika Prosper Nirenberg

Amy Jordan Bartos

Katie Kinder DeBauche, David and Vicki Kinder & McKenna Blackstone

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Gary and Mary Lamar Leyendecker

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that’s what friends are for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Hosts 2020 Winter Ball By Jennifer Roosth | Photography by Daniel Ortiz and Jacob Power

THE SETTING: Over 550 guests gath-

Cal and Hannah McNair

ered at the Hilton Americas for the 33rd anniversary of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation 2020 Winter Ball, themed Warm Friends on a Winter Night. Glorious gowns took center stage as 11 Houstonarea women were honored for their volunteerism in the Houston community.

Sima Ladjevardian, Margaret Alkek Williams, Sippi Khurana and Shena Merchant

THE STYLE: The cocktail hour, the dinner, and the live and silent auctions all contributed to the success of the evening. For 33 years, the Chron’s & Colitis Foundation and ABC13 have celebrated remarkable women in Houston. This event’s theme and honorees were chosen as representatives of friendship and the caring spirit of Houston toward its many philanthropic organizations. This year’s Women of Distinction honorees were Cheryl Byington, Zane Carruth, Theresa Chang, Elsie Eckert, Myrtle Jones, Brigitte Kalai, Kelley Lubanko, Joy McCormack, Hannah McNair, Mary Tere Perusquia and Betty Hrncir, the 2020 Ambassador. The evening was led by emcee Tom Koch of ABC13, and produced by Ellie Francisco and Niki Smith.

Jo and Jim Furr

Christopher and Alexandria Preston

Ricardo and Mary Tere Perusquia

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Jeremy and Elise McKinney & Kaia and Justin Kessler

Robert Sakowitz and Franelle Rogers

Brad and Joanna Marks

Betty Hrncir

Bill King and Hallie Vanderhider

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THE PURPOSE: Lesha Elsenbrook

and Bobbie Nau chaired the Winter Ball, both former Women of Distinction, and Sidney Faust and Cora Sue Mac, served as Honorary Chairs, also past Women of Distinction and Ambassadors. The event raised over $800,000. Honored Heroes Marni Goldman, Blake Hicks, Faith Stuchly, and Ambassador Caitlin Rowley, shared their stories and journeys with Crohn’s disease, demonstrating the importance of the funds raised at the event. The night’s major sponsors included Sewell Automotive Companies, Tootsies, H-E-B, BB&T/SunTrust (now Truist), Gittings, and Tenenbaum Jewelers. s

MARKET AMBASSADOR

digital marketing services | www.marketambassador.com

r.s.v.p. houston

Denise and Philip Bahr

Sharleen and Ron Walkoviak

Tammy Johnson and Jacquie Baly

Mary Ann and David McKeithan

Rob and Amy Pierce

Shari Silverman and Julie Baker Fink

Elizabeth and Alan Stein

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Brigitte Kalai

Fady Armanious and Bill Baldwin

Dylan and Jordan Seff

Farida Abjani and Alicia Smith

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Phoebe Tudor

Frank and Stephanie Tsuru

John and Wendy Granato

Making Lives Better Through Print www.shweiki.com

attend AUSTIN March 2 Texas Independence Day Dinner Texas State History Museum Foundation TSHMF.org March 5-6 Amplify Austin Day 2020 I Live Here I give Here ILiveHereIGiveHere.org March 7 The Crystal Ball Helping Hand Home HelpingHandHome.org March 12 Texas Film Awards Austin Film Society AustinFilm.org March 13-22 SXSW 2020 SXSW.org April 15– May 20 Toast of the Town Parties St. David’s Foundation ToastAustin.org April 15-19 Austin Fashion Week FashionByAustin.com April 18 Spring Bash 2020: Flight of Fancy Women & Their Work WomenAndTheirWork.org April 19 Hidden Music 2020 Conspirare Conspirare.org April 20 Young Masters Award Ceremony Texas Cultural Trust TxCulturalTrust.org April 23 Umlauf Garden Party Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum umlaufsculpture.org April 23-24 Mack, Jack & McConaughey MackJackAndMcConaughey.com April 24-26 Austin Food + Wine Festival Austin Food & Wine Alliance AustinFoodAndWineFestival.com April 25 EASB Havana Nights Elizabeth Ann Seton Board supportseton.org April 26 A Midsummer Afternoon Tea Ballet Austin Guild BalletAustin.org DALLAS/FORT WORTH March 2 Art in Bloom Dallas Museum of Art DMA.org March 10 Silver Cup Award Luncheon TACA TACA-Arts.org

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March 26-29 Food & Wine Festival Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden DallasArboretum.org

April 25 JDRF Dream Gala JDRF Greater Dallas Chapter JDRF.org/Dallas

April 4 Zoo Ball 2020: Moonlight Soirée Houston Zoo HoustonZoo.org

March 27 Chick Lit Luncheon Featuring Diane Keaton Community Partners of Dallas CommunityPartnersDallas.org

April 27 A Night with Arne Duncan Big Thought BigThought.org

April 14 Reflections of Style Luncheon The Salvation Army Of Houston SalvationArmyHouston.org

HOUSTON

March 27 Fashion Stars For A Cause Suicide & Crisis Center of North Texas SCCenter.org

March 6 Tiger Ball The Asia Society AsiaSociety.org

April 18 Vibrant Gala 2020 Society for the Performing Arts SPAHouston.org

March 28 Dallas Contemporary S/S20 Gala Dallas Contemporary Art Museum DallasContemporary.org

March 7 Dancing in the Moonlight Houston Museum of Natural Science HMNS.org

March 28 Under the Moonlight Gala Ronald McDonald House of Dallas RMHDallas.org

March 7 The Sky’s the Limit Nora’s Home NorasHome.org

April 3 AWARE Affair: Celebrate the Moments AWARE AWAREDallas.org

March 25 Best Dressed Luncheon March of Dimes MarchOfDimes.org/BestDressed

March 25 Spirit of Brackenridge Brackenridge Park Conservancy BrackenridgePark.org

March 26 Hats in the Park Luncheon Hermann Park Conservancy HermannPark.org

March 26 Aviation and Aerospace Hall of Fame 2019 Awards Dinner Dee Howard Foundation DeeHoward.org

April 3 Classically Cliburn Gala 2020 The Cliburn Cliburn.org

March 26 Let’s Talk Luncheon Aphasia Recovery Center HARCTX.org

April 4 Toast to Life: Sequins & Saddles Resource Center RCDallas.org

March 27 Colour My World Houston Children’s Charity HoustonChildrensCharity.org

April 4 Nasher Prize Award Gala Nasher Sculpture Center NasherSculptureCenter.org April 16 Mad Hatters Tea & Luncheon Dallas Arboretum Women’s Council WomensCouncilDallasArboretum.org April 17 Together We Shine Children’s Cancer Fund ChildrensCancerFund.com April 18 Art Ball Dallas Museum of Art DMA.org

March 28 Gala 2020 Theater Under the Stars TUTS.com

SAN ANTONIO

March 27–28 Night of Artists Briscoe Western Art Museum BriscoeMuseum.org March 28 Gala in the Garden Seton Home SetonHomeSA.org March 30–April 5 Valero Texas Open ValeroTexasOpen.com April 1 Birthday Bash The Doseum TheDoseum.org

April 2 Spring Cocktails Menil Society Menil.org

April 2 Bon Appetit: A Book Festival Literary Feast San Antonio Book Festival Festival.SAPLF.org

April 3 Bayou Bend Fashion Show & Luncheon Museum of Fine Arts, Houston MFAH.org

April 18 6 th Annual Boots & Blessings Gala Ally’s Wish AllysWish.org

April 3 Annual Gala & Art Auction Contemporary Arts Museum Houston CAMH.org

April 19 Taste of the Cowboys 15 th Anniversary North Texas Food Bank NTFB.org

April 30 Rienzi Spring Party Museum of Fine Arts, Houston MFAH.org

March 28 The Comics Ball Fresh Arts FreshArts.org

April 18 Côtes du Coeur American Heart Association DallasWineAuction.com

April 18 The Masked Gala Fort Worth Opera FWOpera.org

April 25 Cattle Barons Ball American Cancer Society CattleBaronsBall.com

April 4 Opera Ball Houston Grand Opera HoustonGrandOpera.org April 4 An Evening of Hope St. Jude Foundation StJude.org

By Rob Giardinelli, Senior Social Editor SOCIETYTEXAS.COM

April 4 Viva! SA Race Junior League of San Antonio JLSA.org April 16-26 Fiesta San Antonio 2020 FiestaSanAntonio.org April 21 Fiesta Cornyation FiestaSanAntonio.org April 21 A Night in Old San Antonio San Antonio Conservation Society SAConservation.org April 22 Coronation of the Queen of the Order of the Alamo FiestaSanAntonio.org

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