New and vintage jewelry, featuring pieces by Buccellati, Bulgari, Seaman Schepps, Tifany & Co., and Van Cleef & Arpels
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911 Legends Parkway is the epitome of Lake LBJ waterfront luxury! This 3.3-acre estate in the gated golf & waterfront community of The Legends ofers 250’ feet of breathtaking open waterfront. It features a stunning blue negative-edge pool with a spa and slide, a spacious covered patio, and an extraordinary man cave with a full bar, pool table, and ice cream station. The multigenerational design includes an open-concept main living area, a gourmet kitchen, a theater room, a primary suite with a spa bath, and multiple guest suites. The beautifully landscaped grounds lead to lakeside entertaining areas, a summer kitchen with a BBQ/ fre pit, and a boathouse with living quarters and amenities. Constructed in 2020, this 9,788 sq ft estate includes eight bedrooms, nine full baths, two half baths, a fve-car garage, and comes fully furnished with watercraft. Live your best life on Lake LBJ!
Extraordinary living on the lake
Stunning...Simply Stunning is the only way to describe this majestic estate on Lake LBJ, featuring exquisite open water views that capture the imagination, overlooking the spa and pool that seems to flow endlessly into the lake are several entertaining areas, patios, balconies, sunning areas and outdoor kitchen//living area all embracing the unsurpassed lake views. A private half acre estate the home that features 10,107’ sq ft of pure luxury and timeless architectural detail. Remarkably designed with family in mind, 7 bedrooms, 6 full and 2 half baths as well as 4 full living areas make a multigenerational home with 3 separate wings of private suites and a wonderful main living area for family and friends to gather and enjoy all that this resort lifestyle affords and to make a multitude of memories that will last a lifetime!
THE PALACE FALL• 2024 WINTER
56. MEET ME AT
Here’s an exclusive look at how Texans show their largess abroad. We’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the American Friends of Versailles organization and its leaders created a pictureperfect gala that will always be remembered. We’ll take you from a sea of gold and gilt to the pyrotechnics that lit up the sky for its celebration.
By Lance Avery Morgan Photography courtesy of American Friends of the Louvre
DEPARTMENTS
High Jewelry Aurea Chandra necklace in pink gold with pavéset diamonds (D-F IFVVS 166.30CW). Price Upon Request. At Bulgari.com, or 1.800. BULGARI for more details.
18. 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 during these cool days ahead for fall.
20. EDITOR’S LETTER
Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director Lance Avery Morgan shares his always optimistically bright disposition for the cooler months ahead.
22. SPARKLE
We love a dynamic woman’s past, especially one that is ornamental and exudes a vintage or vintage-inspired vibe. So, we have assembled the fnest jewels with some of our favorite jewelry collaborators to present a few recommendations.
24. GLOW
Our beauty insider, Leanne Raesener, recommends the feel-better and look-better beauty products to embrace the season’s new trends and incorporate them into your upcoming social festivities.
26. LIST
Our luxe curator, Rank & Style CEO Jamie Chandlee, and her team recommend her favorite soirée accessories to make life a little more fashionable...expect it to be full of glamour.
28. BROWSE
Te most stylishly chic books you’ll want to read? Here they are, just in time to enhance your life with fall’s vibrant reading opportunities.
30. CREATE
Ever wanted to step back in time to a more glamorous era...like the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s? Join us as our Lance Avery Morgan shares an excerpt from his upcoming novel, Te Sensational Saga & Secrets Of Sarita Silva.
32. PURSUE
Tere is always something new to discover in Texas...and beyond. Lance Avery Morgan and our editorial team share the best things, places, and people to know and experience right now
46. CULTURE
We’ve teamed with some of the state’s top cultural institutions to get a glimpse behind the scenes at what makes them so beloved and interesting.
140. ATTEND
Here is a selection of philanthropic events Senior Social Editor Rob Giardinelli recommends.
Building An Empire by Sarah Palmer. 48” x 36”. Collage and oil
Te Sensational Saga & Secrets Of Sarita Silva excerpt. Photo courtesy of Flickr.
At Rizzoli USA
Luk Beautifood Mascara
Purse by Khaite
Hosted by:
Society Texas Senior Social Editor Rob Giardinelli
A podcast that features guests from the people behind Texas’ top nonproft galas and signature fundraising events around Texas including:
Mack, Jack & McConaughey
Two X Two
Crystal Charity Ball
Dell Children’s Medical Center Ball
Houston Ballet Ball
Tiger Ball & more
Listen Now:
PUBLISHER C.O.O./ASSOC. PUBLISHER
Rossana Leeper Rob Giardinelli
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Lance Avery Morgan
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Beast Creative Agency • Edy Hernandez
SENIOR SOCIAL EDITOR
Rob Giardinelli
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Gordon Kendall • Leanne Raesener • Jennifer Roosth
Cynthia Smoot • Rose Betty Williams
DIGITAL DIRECTOR
McKenna Kinder
WRITERS
Jamie Chandlee • Alexandra Del Lago • Lori Duran • Jake Gaines
Rob Giardinelli • Gordon Kendall • Alexandra del Lago • Lance Avery
Morgan • Kristen O’Brien • Leanne Raesener • Jennifer Roosth
Michael Satterfeld • Mary Schneider • Cynthia Smoot
PHOTOGRAPHY
Kelly Alexander • Katy Anderson • Hannah Bell Photography
Bruno, Snap Te Picture • Tamytha Cameron • Danny Campbell
Rob Giardinelli, C.O.O./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 refect the opinion of the publisher or its staf. 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 ofces 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.
Cover: Meet Me At The Palace. American Friends of Versailles. Illustration by Missy Harris. Austin, TX
CONTRIBUTE
LORI DURAN
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 and her team contribute to our List column in each issue, and her vision for Rank & Style is to give people back the time they waste digging through endless fashion resources to fnd the products they like. Chandlee is a graduate of Te University of Texas at Austin and is grateful to be able to help people outside the ofce through her participation in numerous socially impactful organizations.
Lori Duran has had a diverse career and currently researches interesting historical stories of social changes. Tis has been her life-long passion. Duran serves on the board of directors for the Austin History Center Association, where she is involved in 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 has released her second book, Te University of Texas at Austin: Te First One Hundred Years.
MISSY HARRIS
ROB GIARDINELLI
Certifed professional coach and branding expert by day, social commentator by night, COO/Co-Publisher, and Senior Social Editor, Rob Giardinelli is a man of many interests. He loves being a part of any room where social Texans exude their larger-than-life essence, whether cooking a meal at home for a small group of friends or being part of a non-proft gala for over a thousand guests. Most of all, he appreciates how Texans so generously and passionately give back. He relishes weaving his social commentary to showcase those who work tirelessly to raise awareness of important causes in the State of Texas and beyond.
Longtime Austinite Missy Harris is a College of Fine Arts graduate from Te University of Texas. She spent her early professional illustration career as a staf fashion artist at the Scarbrough’s Department Store in Austin and Frost Bros. Department Store in San Antonio. She continued her artistic path as a freelance fashion artist for legendary retailers such as Grace Jones of Salado, Ivey-Wade, Goodfriend’s, Bo-Peep, and J. Winn Powell in Austin, as well as Franklin Simon in New York. She has been very active in Austin’s social community, and this month is our cover story feature artist for Meet Me At Te Palace
GORDON KENDALL
EDY HERNANDEZ
Edy Hernandez, Beast Creative Agency's founder, decided to take the idea of the traditional agency and turn it on its ear...or better said, let the problem speak for itself. Te Beast addresses your marketing challenges with creative thinking. Solving such issues is their jam. Tey have frequently helped their clients with non-marketing-related internal processes derived simply through a fresh perspective and ideation.
Our very fashionable Texan-turned-New Yorker-turned-Dallas contributor Gordon Kendall is always on the go and on the scene. He is a freelance fashion author and educator. He is also an executive member of the Fashion Group International/New York, a member of Te Couture Council, and Te Museum at F.I.T.
JENNIFER ROOTH
LEANNE RAESENER
Our Associate Editor Leanne Raesener was formerly the city editor for both Brilliant and Te Society Diaries magazines. A ffth-generation Texan 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.
Our talented and terrifcally connected
Associate Editor Jennifer Roosth is a Houstonbased 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 fne parties.”
MARY SCHNEIDER
MICHAEL SATTERFIELD
Our columnist, Michael Satterfeld, is an awardwinning journalist, traveler, photographer, and lifelong automotive enthusiast featured in Forbes, Hot Rod Magazine, A-Cars, Easy Riders, and many other publications. Satterfeld founded the popular men’s lifestyle site, Te Gentleman Racer, as a blog in 2002, which has grown to become an online and print magazine, reaching hundreds of thousands of readers every month. He is also a cofounder of Curated Texan.
Contributor Mary Schneider has been a student of energetic medicine for 30 years. She has been a Certifed Resonance Repatterning Professional in private practice in Austin for the past 20 years (RePatternIt.com). Schneider is also an ordained minister and has studied numerous alternative modalities such as homeopathy, the Chinese 5 Element Acupuncture System, Ayurveda, and the Chakra System, to name a few. She loves speaking regularly in the community about how we heal.
ROSE BETTY WILLIAMS
CYNTHIA SMOOT
Meet Cynthia Smoot: publicist, freelance lifestyle and travel writer, Dallas infuencer, and Southern Belle. Her passion is being a connector. Whether through her role as a Publicist for Gangway Advertising, social media, or her freelance work, she loves to shine a spotlight on the people, places, events, and services that give Dallas its favor. Connect with her on all social media platforms @OhSoCynthia.
Wherever there is a wonderful party, there is usually Associate Editor and social chronicler Rose Betty Williams. She also leads symposia, plans events, serves on boards, and supports organizations from OperaAmerica to the Helping Hand Home for Children. Williams also facilitates networking for project and product development. Williams is a longtime Austin resident, freelance writer, and photographer with a passion for fne art, music, wine, books, tennis, food, and life…as well as a deep love for her family and community.
LUXE BE A GALA TONIGHT
PARIS, AS WE ALL KNOW, IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA. SO, WHEN the invitation arrived to attend a formal gala at the iconic Palace of Versailles, I knew it would be steeped in historical grandeur and opulence, refecting the palace's rich legacy as the epitome of French royal luxury. Plus, it was hosted by the American Friends of Versailles, a group founded by Amarillo nativeturned-Chicagoan Catherine Hamilton and now led by its new president, Houstonian-turned-San Antonian Alicia Bryan, who has reenergized the biannual event along with the organization’s stellar team.
From its dazzling chandeliers, and ornate mirrors, to the breathtaking views of the gardens, the palatial venue was meticulously adorned with exquisite gala decor, including gilded accents and foral arrangements, courtesy of Texan-turnedParisian event producer Lucas Somoza. As one would imagine, the atmosphere exuded an aura of elegance and sophistication that enhanced the palace’s already remarkable architectural beauty. But, as with any gala, it’s all about the energy of the organization and its attendees that truly make an event so spectacular and memorable, as you’ll discover in our detailed account of the special weekend in Paris.
Do we have plenty of memorable events to share with you in this issue? We sure do, to the tune of over a cumulative $100,000,000 raised, as you’ll see on luxurious page after page in our very frst issue devoted specifcally to the heart, talent, pomp, and circumstance of the best signature events in Texas. As your faithful editor, I am honored to share with you not only the latest trends and happenings but also the heartbeat of our state, which
seems to know no bounds in growth and largess these days. In these bustling ballrooms and opulent galas that grace our social calendars, how could you not be swept away by the symphony of laughter, clinking glasses, and the gentle rustle of generosity? We like to think we’re taking you there to experience, celebrate, and elevate each gathering that you'll see here on every page.
Beneath the gilded edges and the tinkling of silver spoons, there beats a heart of gold—a heart that beats in harmony with the noble pursuit of making the world a better place. So, let us all raise our glasses to the boundless joys of making the world a better place through generosity, where laughter fows as freely as champagne and kindness reigns supreme.
And, as we embark on another season ahead of festivities and philanthropy, may we always remember the true measure of wealth lies not as much in what we possess but in what we are able to give.
Yours in high spirits and noble endeavors,
Lance Avery Morgan Editor-In-Chief & Creative Director Lance@SocietyTexas.com @societytexas
Photography by Romy Suskin
SPARKLE
Top: Tis High Jewelry Sapphire Brocade necklace in platinum has 13 cushion sapphires (63.48 ct), 18 octagonal diamonds (D-F VVS-VS 9.96 ct), 15 round brilliant cut diamonds (D-F VVS 6.57 ct), 33 pear diamonds (D-F VVS 6.34 ct), 96 buf-top sapphires (9.44 ct), 142 buf-top emeralds (11.79 ct) and pavé-set diamonds (D-F IF- VVS 48.97 ct). Price Upon Request. At Bulgari.com or 1.800.BULGARI for more details.
Bottom: Tis stunner of a necklace, in 18K yellow gold over sterling silver with graduated Old Mine cut diamonds, also has a diamond clasp. Its 49 diamonds with 26.45TCW. $132,000. At Kelly Wade Jewelers.
WOMAN WITH A PAST
Isn’t it more interesting to live a full life...and perhaps have a few secrets along the way? Tat past can often involve splendidly stunning jewels acquired on your journey. Here, we have teamed up with our favorite jewelers to share some gems that have a past...or look like they do, to add to your own future, according to our jewelry admirer Lance Avery Morgan.
Te Temple St. Clair 18K Rainbow Link bracelet is loaded with colorful sapphires, diamonds, and Tsavorite that wrap a rainbow of hues around your wrist. Price Upon Request. At Bechants.
A perfect way to frame the face from sun up until sun down, these signed Fred Leighton round diamond Collet drop earrings in silvertopped gold are ideal for any occasion. Price Upon Request. At Shetler Fine Jewelers.
Te mesmerizing fre opal displays a dizzying spectrum of color and blooms in the ornate scrollwork of this 18K gold brooch. It’s adorned with transitional-cut diamonds and verdant demantoid garnets. Price Upon Request. At Heritage Auctions, HA.com/25158.
A very modern 18K Tree of Life pendant necklace by Temple St. Clair has 1.78CT diamonds and is sure to adorn any neck it drapes. Price Upon Request. At Bechants.
Anne Hathaway, Ocean's 8, 2018. Courtesy of Warner Bros. Publicity
For the perfect ring for an exquisite hand, here’s a dazzling Estate Collection Victorian 3.56CW diamond ring with sapphire accents. $58,500. At Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.
A golden goddess to pique your interest, this Art Nouveau brooch with plique-à-jour enamel dragonfy wings is reminiscent of a stained glass Tifany lamp. It is set with single-cut diamonds and garnets atop a natural pearl, all set in 14k gold and silver. At Heritage Auctions, HA.com/25158.
Passion in jewelry is refected in a red stone. Tis Fred Leighton Antique Burma red spinel and diamond ring, for instance, is sure to beguile. Price Upon Request. At Shetler Fine Jewelers.
Tis truly exquisite platinum Art Deco 9.00TCW diamond bracelet, at 6.5 inches in length, has an 1.25TCW emerald-cut emerald surrounded by 6.00TCW of stunning diamond accents. $27,500. At Kelly Wade Jewelers.
From the High Bridal Collection, here’s a regal
Sharon Stone, Casino. 1995. Courtesy of Universal Publicity
Brand New Beautiful
Tis fall, appreciate yourself, others, and the world in a new, radically beautiful way. After all, you have everything to gain by presenting your most gorgeous self to the world. Here, our beauty connoisseur, Leanne Raesener, chooses her very favorite musthaves for you to try and enjoy.
ICE QUEEN MAGIC
Harnesses the power of cold temperatures by increasing blood ow with this Gold Cryo Facial Set’s invigorating facial experience. Tis cooling cryotherapy treatment, with two freezable, gel-flled, ice globe wands, revitalizes and ne lines and wrinkles. $395. At AngelaCaglia.com.
MASTERPIECE IN A BOTTLE
With the Cosmic Cloud Extrait De Parfum, Louis Vuitton reinvents the fragrance to the purest and most precious fragrance composition. Te collection elevates perfume to an art form, so pick your favorite or indulge in them all. $560 each. At LouisVuitton.com.
YOU LÜK BEAUTIFOOD
Te Natural Lash Nourish Mascara from Lük Beautifood is designed to efortlessly lift, separate, and defne lashes as it conditions. A synthetic-free balmy formula is powered by nourishing botanicals. $27. At LukBeautifood. com.
BEVERLY HILLS CALLING
Skip the trip to Beverly Hills and instead try Dr. Diamond’s new Instafacial® Col lection PLASMA + EMULSION. Tis unprecedented bioactive infusion of expertly curated ‘power molecules’ will rejuvenate and transform your skin into that of a superstar. $550. At DrDiamondsMetacine.com.
PARISIAN POUT
Bring on the glam with the next generation of Christian Louboutin's iconic Lip Trio, which features three diferent Rouge Louboutin fnishes to suit any occasion and desire: Silky Satin, Velvet Matte, and SooooO…Glow. $300. At NeimanMarcus.com.
TURN BACK THAT CLOCK
For the ultimate glow Power Brightening Bicelle Serum boosts collagen and brightens skin with this milky formula for daily use. Potent antioxidants support cellular restoration from age and sun-related damage and ammation. $115. At Motif-
A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND
Surratt Beauty’s Torche Lumiere is a line of illuminizers inspired by twinkling jewels and made with genuine diamonds and gold dust. Available in three gorgeous shades. $54. at NeimanMarcus.com.
CAPTIVATING CRÈME
We love that the Crème De Cou beauty nourishment evens out skin tone and smooths the appearance of lines and wrinkles. It will plump and glow up your skin as if you were a 13-year-old in recess. Founded by Austinite Trish Williams Huddleston. $60. At Good Company in Austin and at COUSkincare.com.
sentielle eyeshadows have an easy-to-use, long-lasting formula enriched with sage oil for a creamy, lightweight, and adaptable texture. Try all 14 modern shades of the brand’s most iconic hues. We recommend Brun Fauve to take you into fall. $40 each. At Chanel.com.
AND THIS ONE IS JUST RIGHT
For the cooler months ahead, quench your hair's thirst with Goldilocks’ Ultimate Hydration Duo. Tis set ensures every strand is deeply hydrated, radiant, and resilient to rejuvenate, strengthen, and transform your hair. $247. At Goldielocks.
Gwyneth Paltrow. Courtesy of Wikimedia
NOW HERE’S MORE FLARE
Showcasing the new cropped style is just as relaxed and easy as any new pair you'll fnd. It features the high rise and wide leg in a new shoe-skimming length. Tis is the favorite jean that you will wear repeatedly, and then again more. $195. At LaLigne.com.
BURNIN’ LOVE
A welcoming environment always seems to have something more to ofer, like this amberscented Diptyque candle. Its unique notes, both subtle and enchantingly warm, evoke the essence of wood and leather. Plus, it has vetiver and patchouli, enhanced with radiant aniseed, insolent spices, mysterious incense, cistus, and Tonka bean. It exudes Hello, Winter! $110. At Bloomingdales.com.
WARM & SENSUOUS
CRISP, COOL & CHARMING
Finally, we’re all gearing up for cooler weather. So, don’t you want to frolic about looking and feeling as stylish as possible? Tat should be easy with a few recommendations according to the Top 10 list by our style guides, the always chic Rank & Style CEO Jamie Chandlee, and her team.
Tis enveloping unisex cologne, Maison Margiela’s Replica By Te Fireplace blends aromatic chestnuts, smoky clove oil, and sweet vanilla. It recreates the signature warmth and coziness of a crackling winter fre. 3.4 oz. $165. At Sephora.com.
BLAZING NEW TRAILS
As good-looking as it is practical, today’s blazer has to do overtime. Te aptly titled Blazé Milano “Everyday” blazer has a classically tailored ft crafted from silken fbers and detailed with the label's signature gold buttons and curved pockets. Tis is one of those key pieces you will want to wear forever. $1640. At ModaOperandi.com. 5
HER LIPS SAY EVERYTHING
Stunna Lip Paint delivers high-impact color with lowmaintenance, long wear in a range of universal shades handpicked by Fenty Founder Rihanna. With one stroke of its lip-defning precision wand, its weightless, comfortable, soft-matte formula stays kissably smooth all day...and night. $29. At Sephora.com.
YOU GOTTA HAVE HEART
Choose up to three letters to personalize this darling necklace with the Baby Heart of Gold charm. Te charms are not fxed in place and slide along the 22" or 26" goldflled chains, which are lightweight, strong, and can be clasped anywhere for various lengths. $238. At ShopHart.com.
LIKE A SNOWBALL EFFECT
Te Moncler Grenoble Hainet
Color Block Jacket is more than just something chic to wear on the slopes. Te Moncler outerwear collections marry the extreme demands of nature with those of city life. Practical, gorgeous, and machine washable. $2500. At Bloomingdales.com.
ALL THE RIGHT ANGLES
Oversized and supple, this scarf-inspired Medium Lotus tote is designed to be especially lightweight, with a rounded base for stability. Includes a removable leather pouch and dust bag. $2,700. At Khaite.com.
NECK-IN-NECK WINNER
Tis sumptuous scarf by Loewe is knitted from a generous blend of mohair and wool, which gives it a luxuriously soft and fuzzy handle. For added style, it’s fringed at either end. $350. At NetAPorter.com.
SWEATER WEATHER
Soon to be your favorite sweater of the season, this Gaspard cardigan sweater is a timeless knit that will carry you through the seasons. Tis soft and warm jumper is embellished with elegant motherof-pearl efect buttons. Switch it up and wear it with the buttons in the back. In four colors. $120. At Sezanne.com.
BROWSE
LITERARY LUXE
As the crisp air of autumn sets in, now is the time to indulge in the luxurious world of fashion through the pages of the latest style books. Te stunning array of fashion literature highlights the season's coolest trends and delves into the history, craftsmanship, and artistry that defne true luxury, according to our bibliophile Lance Avery Morgan.
DISCO: MUSIC, MOVIES, AND MANIA UNDER THE MIRROR BALL
By Frank DeCaro
Half a century after the drug-fueled, DJ-driven, glamour-drenched musical phenomenon of disco was born at a New York City loft party, disco’s musical and fashion infuences live on in popular culture. Here is a frolicking, entertaining, yet serious tribute to the overlooked art form of disco, which has never been given its proper due until now. $55. At RizzoliUSA.com.
BLENHEIM: 300 YEARS OF LIFE IN A PALACE
By Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill
In addition to the gilded staterooms and acres of landscaped gardens, here we see the family’s private apartments, with their secret corridors and history of illustrious guests, as well as the “downstairs” staf area with its iconic bell system. Crafted by the best talents of the age, the art and statuary are by such notable artists as John Singer Sargent and Joshua Reynolds, providing a window into the rich history of England. $75. At RizzoliUSA.com.
THE BATTLE OF VERSAILLES: THE FASHION SHOWDOWN OF 1973
By Mark Bozek
Here’s the frst illustrated book to chronicle the dramatic 1973 face-of between French and American fashion designers. With a guest list of over 700 pop culture notables, this contest pitted each country against the other, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry. It launched American designers as a global force and challenged the cultural norms of the time while transforming fashion history. $85. At RizzoliUSA.com.
LOVE HOW YOU LIVE: ADVENTURES IN INTERIOR DESIGN
By Rodman Primack with Ruby Weissenberg
Designer Rodman Primack has garnered attention over two-decades for his playful and global spirit; ‘a punk take on preppy’ known to break hierarchies by layering textures, patterns, art, and bold colors. His frst book includes thirteen international projects, each refecting the culture and conditions of their locations and the passions of their inhabitants while embodying Primack’s radical philosophy. $64.95. By Montecelli. At Phaidon.com.
GUY BOURDIN FOR CHARLES JOURDAN By Patrick Remy
Here are over 150 images devoted to the provocative collaboration between photographer Guy Bourdin and shoe designer Charles Jourdan. Provocative, fabulist, dramatic, and full of intense color and saturation theirs was as complete a collaboration as has ever been achieved in the history of postwar fashion. $75. At RizzoliUSA.com.
HENRI BENDEL AND THE WORLD HE FASHIONED
By Tim Allis
During its heyday, New York’s Henri Bendel was the chicest department store in the world. Tis gorgeous book provides a vivid window into New York’s social and cultural evolution—told through fashion—well into the 21st century. Tis is a must-read for any fan of luxury retail. $34.95. At ULPress.org.
SWING BY! By Stephanie Nass
Looking for event inspiration from a ‘hostess with the mostest’ like Stephanie Nass? Tis book is creatively organized by type of party—standing soirees, seated suppers, outdoor dining, and holiday celebrations. It features sixteen fun, festive, and original ideas for hosting, It’s a can’t-miss guide for your upcoming entertaining. $45. At RizzoliUSA.com.
BALENCIAGA-KUBLIN By Ana Balda and Maria Kublin
It’s the frst book to document the short yet prolifc artistic career of fashion photographer and flmmaker Tom Kublin, and a celebration of his creative union with Cristóbal Balenciaga during the fashion house's postwar heyday in Paris. More than 140 photographs and flm stills by Kublin capture the golden age of Balenciaga couture in the 1950s and 1960s. $75. At TamesAndHudsonUSA.com.
LADY PAMELA By India Hicks
Tis new visual biography is a dynamic chronicle of Lady Pamela Hicks’ life. Daughter of the 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma, the last viceroy of India, Lady Pamela was a frst cousin to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. She served as a bridesmaid and lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth II, before marrying legendary interior designer David Hicks. An extraordinary tome about a life well lived. $60. At RizzoliUSA.com.
FASHION FIRST By Diane Keaton
Diane Keaton went through her scrapbooks to fnd some of her earliest fashion moments and inspirations and then takes us on her style journey from her early career through the present. Te hats, the turtlenecks, the wild patterns, and more are accompanied by Keaton’s refections in her recognizable voice. $55. At RizzoliUSA.com.
MADAME GRÈS COUTURE By Oliver Saillard
Renowned for her signature draping and innovative asymmetrical dresses, Madame Grès (1903–1993) was one of the leading fashion designers of twentiethcentury Paris. Formally trained as a sculptress, her complex yet delicate haute couture designs evoke ancient statuary and exude a timeless elegance. She had a resurgence in the 1970s, with Yves Saint Laurent and Issey Miyake advocating for her work. $65. At RizzoliUSA.com.
FREDERIC: THE LAST WORD IN CHIC By Dara Caponigro
Here is a marvelously curated collection of the most memorable interiors featured in FREDERIC magazine, one of the design world’s most lauded publications. Readers are invited to step inside 28 incredible homes, from lovingly restored historic houses to breathtaking new residences. Each of the featured projects are presented in a new light with never-before-seen images. $84.95. By Montecelli. At Phaidon.com.
CREATE
THERE'S NO BUSINESS LIKE THE MOVIE BUSINESS
Te Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s held an immense allure for aspiring actors seeking fame, fortune, and a career in the booming flm industry. Young actors, like the heartthrob hero in an excerpt of our Lance Avery Morgan’s new book, Te Sensational Saga & Secrets Of Sarita Silva, were enticed by the prospect of achieving this level of fame and adulation from audiences worldwide. Join us in 1932, the Pre-Code era, which allowed for more daring and provocative storylines that appealed to actors seeking creative freedom and the opportunity to explore controversial themes just before the strict enforcement of the Motion Picture Production Code.
Archival Photography Courtesy of Flickr
BARTON NEWBERRY LEFT THE ENTRY TO PREEMINENT Pictures, turning at the next block to walk south toward Wilshire Boulevard. As he walks down the Miracle Mile District, the very best part of Wilshire, every woman he passes is more beautiful and elegant than the one right before her. Suddenly, he feels lucky to have escaped Charleston weeks ago, along with the arranged marriage to Viola Caldwell, a girl beautiful and smart enough, all right, and their families had known each other since they were knee-high to a grasshopper. It makes Bart think, plot, and plan even more about how he wants to chart his destiny as he glides down the sidewalk.
He knows that being a young, handsome actor trying to make a career in Hollywood during the 1930s is an exciting and challenging experience. After all, Hollywood and the flm industry is rapidly expanding. As a neophyte actor, he has arrived in the city of dreams with hopes of making it big on the silver screen, like so many others do. His time while schooling at Ole Miss and acting in plays serves him with confdence. It also flled him with enough acclaim in the local college newspaper, Te Daily Mississippian, to fll a small scrapbook that would board the train with him to Glendale, the sleepy little suburb west of downtown Los Angeles. His role as Romeo in the Shakespearean classic slayed each audience. Te female audience wanted to kiss him, and the male audience wanted to be him. Identifying as a star is crucial to the long-term success of someone like Bart in Hollywood.
Te flm industry has a mystique around it, and aspiring actors like Bart are drawn by the glitz and allure of the silver screen. Te red carpet premieres, fashy events, and attention from adoring fans can be both exhilarating and overwhelming for a newcomer. Te infux of aspiring actors from around the country means the intense competition is ferce. Tousands of young hopefuls like him are vying for limited roles, and breaking into the industry is a daunting task. To stand out, he has to be more than just handsome; talent, charisma, and perseverance are as essential as having a handsome mug.
Since Hollywood operates primarily under the studio system,
major flm studios like Preeminent control every aspect of a performer's career. If Bart is lucky enough to get signed by a studio, they would go into overdrive to shape his image, provide acting classes, and manage his public relations. However, this also means the studios had signifcant control over his career choices. From what he read in the movie magazines, auditioning for various roles, even with a solid studio contract, will become a regular part of Bart’s life. As a newcomer, he’ll face numerous rejections, which could be disheartening. But with each rejection, he has to learn to toughen up and improve his craft. Tere’s no patrician family to save him here in Hollywood.
He might even work with some of his screen legend favorites like John Barrymore and the man of a thousand faces, Lon Chaney. If he secures a contract, he might also have the chance to work alongside iconic directors and writers of his time. It would be a tremendous learning experience to share the screen with the stars in front and in the back of the camera. After seeing hundreds upon hundreds of flms at the Gloria Teater, the best movie palace in Charleston, Bart feels as if he has inky, cinematic, celluloid blood coursing through his blue-blooded veins. He’s seen the 10-foot-high flm posters and knows the studio publicity machine plays a crucial role in shaping his public image. Tey will carefully craft his persona, presenting him as the dashing leading man in newspapers, magazines, and movie posters. As Bart walked down Wilshire Boulevard, he kept thinking and dreaming. Bart would have to learn to toughen up and improve his craft. No one bats a thousand out of the gates, he reasons.
Later that day, at 7:00 p.m. to be exact, Bart saunters into Lucy’s El Adobe, the famous watering hole for actors and executives at nearby Paramount, RKO, and Preeminent Pictures. He saddles up to the bar, passing the tables full of eyes that follow him to the two available stools he selected. After all, he is one of Hollywood's best-looking men these days. He orders a gin martini. He is more of a bourbon man, but the martini speaks to the kind of leading man he wants to be. So, he gulps the frst sip of the woodsy Prohibition cocktail, then lights a Chesterfeld from the pack he bought earlier that day for twenty cents. Bart has heard that
the cop raids on speakeasy bars are no longer happening in Los Angeles like they had for the past several years, so he felt safe downing the drink.
At just after 7:15 p.m., Raymond Waterman, his long-lost pal from Charleston and the Preeminent Studios front gate guard, strolls in, looking more than a bit tense.
“I don’t like to be late. I forgot I had to change out of my uniform, so here I am,” ofers Ray.
“No problem. It’s great to catch up one-on-one. Just like the old days,” says Bart.
“Te old days? I don’t remember us ever socializing before.”
“Well, sure we did. After work at Consolidated back home. I remember buying you a beer after a long shift.”
“Unless that beer was at the country club dance where you could most often be found, it wasn’t me. I wasn’t a part of any of that. My family couldn’t aford it. Still can’t.”
“O.K., O.K., message received. I remember you, your dad, and your brother being very loyal to the company, and I believe we’ve done right by the entire Waterman family over the years.”
“So, tell me, young Barton Newberry, heir to the shipping throne, why did you really move to Hollywood? To get laid? You don’t need any help there. By the way, how’s Viola Caldwell? Weren’t you two supposed to get married? My mother wrote me that she saw that in the paper’s society column.”
“No, I called of the engagement. Viola will always have a special place in my heart, but not a lifelong place with marriage,” Bart answers thoughtfully before shifting the subject to the business at hand. “So, do you like Preeminent? Tey seem like the best studio in town.”
“Show business is swell, but it’s a business. It’s not all glitz and glamour like you might think it is,” shares Ray.
“I don’t know enough about it to think it’s anything. I just want to act,” ofers Bart, refecting his sincere earnestness.
“Dealing with rejection, navigating studio politics, and managing public expectations are all part and parcel of the package,” explains Ray after his second beer, loosening up a bit. “From what I can see, you’re making a Faustian pact with the devil by having anything to do with Hollywood.”
“Like you’re doing, Ray? Making a pact with the devil?” asks Bart. Ray goes on to say, “Maybe so. If, and only if, you’re fortunate enough to succeed, then the flms you appear in might change lives, and your contribution may be remembered for generations. I think movies will last more than a week or two in theaters. I don’t know how, but I do.”
“I get it. Movies are art, but not everyone recognizes that it’s an art form yet,” says Bart.
“Exactly. Don’t get me wrong,” states Raymond earnestly. “Tere’s a vibrant social scene that is also part of the business. You’ve got to be seen by the right people and at the most exclusive parties and impress the right casting directors, producers, executives, and their wives, too. Hollywood parties are notorious for their extravagances and ofer a chance to uh, build relationships with infuential people in the industry.”
“Aha. See and be seen,” answers Bart.
“Tell you what. Tere’s a party Sunday afternoon up in the hills. I heard some guys at the Y mention it. Do you have a swimsuit?” asks Ray.
“A swimsuit? Sure. I guess. Why do I need that?” answers Bart.
“It’s paradise here. People like to entertain outside by their pools. You can always use a good swim, can’t you?” retorts Ray.
“Yeah, I mean yes,” agrees Bart.
Tey head to the door, and as they are outside shaking hands goodbye with fnal plans to meet up Sunday for the pool party, Bart Newberry feels a solid thud across his jaw, and Ray Waterman, is the recipient of a gut punch. What the hell?
Te Cool Factor
Where to go, how to support, and whom to know this fall with a chill in the air? Look no further than here for our recommendations of the latest and greatest that Texans will love, according to our culture arbiter Lance Avery Morgan, who is always on the scene looking out for our best interests.
BROAD STROKES
As a Texas fan favorite, contemporary artist Sarah Palmer also loves Asian history and culture....like the exhibit of the tomb of Quin Shi Huang and his terracotta warriors. She reimagined what the soldiers would look like if constructed today by using color, and sometimes whimsical imagery to show that the original artists were individuals who painstakingly encrypted their unique signatures on each work. In a way, Palmer strives to fnd these artisans a voice and give them their souls back. At SarahPalmerStudios.com.
HOUSTON, MEET LONDON
Why hop the pond when you can have a Brit-like experience at the Lancaster Hotel in Houston? Recognized as the only hotel in Houston’s prestigious Teater District, the Lancaster Hotel was introduced to Houston as the Auditorium Hotel in 1926 and was designed in an Italianate style by noted Houston architect Joseph Finger. Under the new ownership of Texas based hoteliers, the Lancaster Hotel’s interior design refnement and renovation incorporates a curated collection of contemporary art by internationally recognized and respected Texas artists. At TeLancaster.com.
HOW VERY ARTFULLY SAN ANTONIO
Only at AnArte Gallery in San Antonio could you fnd an artist like Andrea Broyles, a contemporary fgurative painter and sculptress whose work explores and is based on the human condition... specifically emotionality, morality, and confict. “T sculpture is an inspiration from Velazquez's painting, Las Meninas,” says Andrea Broyles. “I have embraced aspects of the painting, such as the mystery and intrigue of the fgures in the painting and transformed them into three-dimensional pieces." Price Upon Request. At AnArteGallery09.com.
NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK
Te always-right cocktail napkin created by Austinite Kate Hersch, of AugustMorgan, can now grace your furniture. Tanks to Hersch’s fanciful designs that are now available to create in a needlepoint version at KC Needlepoint, your home can become even more festive. $55. At KCNeedlepoint.com.
GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE...
Te Mughal Empire of India was historically signifcant and known for its luxurious, elaborate jewels. Pearls were highly valued as symbols of purity and nobility, as well as magical properties. Emeralds were sourced from mines in India and imported from Central Asia. Tey are intricately cut and set into gold or silver using the Kundan technique, highlighting the Mughals' opulence and craftsmanship in jewelry-making. Tis diamond, emerald, pearl, platinumpendant necklace is a true testament to the skill of Indian artisans. Find it, and other gems, at Heritage Auctions’ Fall Fine Jewelry Auction on Sept. 30. Bidding opens Aug. 20. Est. $50,000-$70,000. At HA. com/5557.
C’MON, IS THAT DALLAS WE SMELL?
Only a city like Dallas can have its own scent. Over 200 oils were selected based on Dallas' astrological natal chart of when it became a city on February 2, 1856. A natal chart plots the sky when a place was founded, acts like a map, and can be read as a story of Dallas’ vibe and destiny. A wild spirit tamed, the scent refects prominent notes of yuzu, tobacco fower, sage, cedarwood, musk, white fr, cardamom, bergamot, lavender, and sandalwood. $110. At ZodiacPerfumery.
Building An Empire by Sarah Palmer. 48” x 36”. Collage and oil.
Andrea Broyles, Meninas lll, ceramic gold leaf, 18x18x14 in. 2024.
The Forbes rating is compiled by SHOOK Research and awarded annually in April based on information from a 12-month period ending June of the prior year.
The Forbes rating is compiled by SHOOK Research and awarded annually in April based on information from a 12-month period ending June of the prior year.
Forbes America’s Top Women Wealth Advisors, 2019 – 2024
Forbes America’s Top Women Wealth Advisors, 2019 – 2024
The Forbes rating is compiled by SHOOK Research and awarded annually in February based on information from a 12-month period ending September of the prior year.
The Forbes rating is compiled by SHOOK Research and awarded annually in February based on information from a 12-month period ending September of the prior year.
Eligibility is based on quantitative factors and is not necessarily related to the quality of the investment advice.
Eligibility is based on quantitative factors and is not necessarily related to the quality of the investment advice.
Clients experience every day the kind of attention, acumen and depth of advice that Carol brings to each relationship. They have come to expect a level of service and guidance that not only continually earns their confidence—but also wins recognition.
Clients experience every day the kind of attention, acumen and depth of advice that Carol brings to each relationship. They have come to expect a level of service and guidance that not only continually earns their confidence—but also wins recognition.
We toast Carol for all she does to harness the global resources of UBS on behalf of her clients. We know this success wouldn’t be possible without the trust of each and every client.
We toast Carol for all she does to harness the global resources of UBS on behalf of her clients. We know this success wouldn’t be possible without the trust of each and every client.
Please join us in congratulating Carol for this well-earned distinction and reach out anytime to discuss your plans for today and the future.
Please join us in congratulating Carol for this well-earned distinction and reach out anytime to discuss your plans for today and the future.
Mani Johnston, CEPA Senior Vice President–Wealth
Redefining luxury with a local touch.
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For an unmatched real estate experience, visit kuperrealty.com
119 West Lincoln Street, Marfa, TX 79843
Profitable multi-family compound on 7,500 sq. ft. lot in premier Courthouse Square location. Features a historic 3-bedroom adobe home, a 1-bedroom casita, and an adobe studio. Zoned Multifamily with extensive renovations, offering short and long-term rental income. Includes landscaped outdoor spaces, heated pool, and koi pond.
6 BEDS | 5.1 BATHS | 1,910 SF | .17 AC AVAILABLE FOR $1,500,000
Lauren Meader Fowlkes
YOUR MARFA REAL ESTATE EXPERT
Lauren Meader Fowlkes, born and raised in San Antonio, moved to Marfa in 2011 and opened Far West Texas Realty in 2013. She has closed over 200 transactions in eleven years, thanks to her deep market knowledge, open communication, and dedication to maximizing value. Known for her honesty and hard work, Lauren joined Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty in 2022 to enhance her business with unmatched marketing and technology. Trust Lauren for expert guidance in Marfa real estate.
Lauren Meader Fowlkes
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
432.295.2849
LAUREN.MEADERFOWLKES@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM
LAURENMEADERFOWLKES.SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM
Ryan Hoskins
Ryan Hoskins, a San Antonio native, is your go-to real estate expert across Texas. With deep local knowledge and a customer-frst approach, he ensures clients fnd their ideal property. Supported by his wife Caroline, Senior Director of Marketing at Kuper Sotheby’s, Ryan ofers strategic marketing and unparalleled service. Trust Ryan to guide your real estate journey with expertise and dedication.
YOUR SAN ANTONIO LUXURY EXPERT
Deanna Wright
YOUR SAN ANTONIO REAL ESTATE EXPERT
Deanna Wright, with over 17 years in San Antonio real estate, is among the Top Ten agents for the city, recognized in 2023 by The San Antonio Business Journal and Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty. Her deep local knowledge and dedication ensure her clients the best home buying and selling experience. Deanna’s approach is rooted in transparency and communication. She explains every step of the process, promptly returns calls and emails, and keeps clients informed of all changes throughout the transaction. Deanna’s son, a Texas A&M graduate, is now working alongside her and together they continue delivering top-notch real estate services. Outside of work, Deanna enjoys reading, running, and hiking. For buying or selling, trust Deanna for expert guidance and exceptional service across Texas making her an invaluable asset in your property journey.
Experience the epitome of contemporary luxury in this magnificent one-story home situated on the 14th Fairway in Cordillera Ranch, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship.
Bridget Ramey
Julie Alexander
Julie Alexander
For 19 years, Julie has been a trusted real estate advisor in the Texas Hill Country. As an award-winning Broker Associate, she continuously earns the prestigious Five Star Award for excellent client service. Julie currently serves on the Texas Realtors Professional Development Committee, reflecting her commitment to professional growth and industry standards. Julie excels in various real estate sectors, including residential, commercial, vineyard, and new development projects. Her dedication to clients and profound local knowledge make her the go-to expert for all your real estate needs across the Hill Country.
YOUR HILL COUNTRY EXPERT
Debbie Stevenson
YOUR LUXURY AGENT
Debbie, with international client experience, excels in Central Texas real estate, including Salado, Belton, Temple, farm and ranch properties, and new construction. Known for her dedication, attention to detail, and strong negotiation skills, she ensures win-win results. With a background in journalism and global real estate experience, Debbie listens and understands clients’ needs, making her the ideal expert for real estate transactions across Texas.
Debbie Stevenson
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
512.468.8210
DEBBIE.STEVENSON@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM
DEBBIESTEVENSON.SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM
South Shores Estates
Come home to Salado’s newest luxury lakeside development. Now selling, this horse-friendly gated community backs to the Stillhouse Hollow Lake shoreline and features 16 secluded acreage home sites.
SOUTHSHOREESTATESSALADO.COM
Cristina Resendez Garcia
YOUR LOCAL EXPERT FOR SAN ANTONIO
In 2005, Cristina Garcia began her real estate career, leveraging her background in finance and education. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Cristina’s bilingual and bicultural abilities enhance her organizational and interpersonal skills, contributing to her success. Born along the US-Mexico border, she understands cross-cultural nuances. Cristina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance with a minor in International Studies from Boston College, an Education Degree in Bilingual Education from Texas A&M International, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She taught for nine years before transitioning to real estate.
Outside of work, Cristina enjoys her roles as a wife and mother, actively engaging in family life. Her passion for life and real estate helps her consistently exceed client expectations. Clients describe Cristina as compassionate, trustworthy, and a skilled negotiator who listens attentively and guides them through the buying and selling process with tailored marketing plans or customized searches. This dedication has earned her a reputation as an outstanding real estate agent.
Cristina Resendez Garcia
Tammie Bennett
YOUR WATERFRONT EXPERT // SPECIALIZING IN HIGHLAND LAKES, HORSESHOE
BAY, LAKE LBJ, LAKE MARBLE FALLS & INKS LAKE
Tammie Bennett
GLOBAL
Tammie Bennett is proud to represent Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty in this remarkable market. Specializing in Luxury, Resort and Waterfront properties in the Highland Lakes, Horseshoe Bay and Lake LBJ areas. She has positioned herself as a number #1 Luxury Agent in the Highland Lakes by providing extraordinary marketing and exceptional knowledge and service to her clientele. But her true knowledge and love of her job comes from living on Lake LBJ full time, knowing the lake from a sales standpoint while also understanding and enjoying the everyday luxury of lake life on Lake LBJ.
ICONS ON DISPLAY
LBJ Library Hosts Iconic Spring Programming Season And 60th Anniversary Of Te Civil Rights Act of 1964 With President Joseph Biden
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Jay Godwin
THE SETTING: Troughout 2024 the LBJ Library has hosted an array of impactful cultural and historical exhibits, programs, and conversations. During the spring season, LBJ members were ofered bespoke experiences featuring iconic societal and cultural moments including VIP receptions, conversations with iconic thought leaders, and celebrations of legislation that has helped transform American society. Members of Friends of the LBJ Library were granted access to this dazzling array of events that provided memories that many will take with them for the rest of their lives.
THE STYLE: Te spring season began with a VIP reception for the LBJ Library exhibit of Music America, a 100-piece exhibit done in partnership with the Springsteen Archives. During the night guests were frst treated to a concert featuring well-known Texas artists including Lyle Lovett and Jimmie Vaughan. After the concert, members were able to tour the exhibit, which took them on a journey over the last 250 years of music with artifacts from iconic artists including Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Elvis Presley, and Bruce Springsteen among many others.
As the season progressed, members were treated to access to special experiences with media icons about trust, news, and democracy. During the evening, members had the opportunity to an exclusive interview by LBJ Foundation President and CEO Mark Updegrove with legendary journalists Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward. Additionally, Updegrove moderated conversations with top journalists, including PBS Anchor emeritus Judy Woodruf and Kara Swisher. After the event, select members also had the opportunity to attend a VIP reception where they had the opportunity to mingle with the guests of honor.
Te programming season at the LBJ Library was capped of by honoring one of President Johnson’s signature achievements, the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. called the second emancipation. To mark the milestone, the LBJ Library hosted a 60th Anniversary Commemoration that featured music, live readings, words from acclaimed actor Bryan Cranston, and a keynote address by President Joe Biden. Members received access to a special reception where they got to mingle with many notables including Cranston, while a select few members had the opportunity to pose for images with President Biden.
THE PURPOSE: Friends of the LBJ Library members enjoy exclusive access to a variety of programs, including the Evening With series and special museum exhibits like Music America. Support from the Friends helps sustain these programs, along with our educational workshops and curriculum. To learn more and become a member, visit LBJFriends.org or Friends@ LBJFoundation.org.
Chuck Robb and Lynda Johnson Robb
Barbara Breier, Liz Arreaga and Nan McRaven
Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein
Bryan Cranston
Dr. Steven Tomlinson and Eugene Sepulveda
John Bridgeland and Luci Baines Johnson
Judy Woodruf
Larry Temple and Rodney Ellis
President Joseph Biden
Catherine Robb and Dianne Preston Bangle
Greg Davis and Amy Walker
Mark Updegrove
Michelle Moog Koussa
Outft from Bruce Springsteen Born in the USA album cover Tyeschea West
Christy and Turk Pipkin, Constance Dykhuizen and Phillip Orchard
Add Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh to your guest list.
With scenic grounds and a beautifully curated collection that is sure to impress your guests, the McNay Art Museum is the perfect choice for an artful afair.
6000 North New Braunfels
San Antonio, Texas, 78209-0069
210.805.1782 | mcnayart.org
Photo Courtesy
Winter Wonderland Family Gala
Meet Me At The PALACE
Gala De Versailles Series Of Events Ofers
Grand Opulence...And Plenty of Texans
By Lance Avery Morgan
Illustrations by Missy Harris
Photography courtesy of American Friends of Versailles
WWHEN AN ELABORATELY EMBOSSED INVITATION arrives to celebrate and support an international landmark for a weekend of sublime parties at a palace outside of Paris, one takes notice. After all, the French fag is one of six that has fown over Texas... and for a special weekend, it was Texans fying high at Versailles.
Benefting the Château de Versailles restoration projects, the American Friends of Versailles organization is the brainchild of Chicago resident Catharine Cline Hamilton, originally from Amarillo. It is now helmed by its new president, San Antonian Alicia Bryan.
“ Te American Friends of Versailles has a rich history of fortifying the ties between the United States and France,” shares Alicia Bryan. “Its unwavering commitment to funding restoration projects at the Palace of Versailles and its magnifcent gardens is a testament to its signifcant impact. I aim to infuse our beneft gatherings, from engaging dinners to extended moments of historical and inspirational
refection, with a renewed sense of purpose and enjoyment.”
Te extraordinary summer gala and events beneft the restoration of the Charles LeBrun ceiling of the Salon de Diane, within the Kings' apartments. Ordered by Louis XIV, this room is now on the main visitors' tour and requires cleaning and structural repair at the exquisite French landmark. From the very beginning, the Société des Amis de Versailles committed to join eforts alongside the American Friends to complete the fnancing of the restoration of the palace's marbled walls and wood foor, among other projects at the palace. As the party-with-apurpose weekend began, on Saturday evening, the black tie-attired guests descended upon the historic Galerie des Glaces (Hall of Mirrors) to the sound of a harpist and soprano performing baroque refrains. Guests felt as if they had stepped into a world of bygone elegance because this event was more than a gathering. It was a celebration of beauty and cultural unity in which bonds transcend borders.
Marie de Noailles, Hon. Denise Bauer and Steven Bauer
Alicia Bryan
Robert and Jennifer Shemwell
Philippe and Sandrine de Montmort & Marie de Noailles and Nicolas Lhermitte
H.E. Sheikha Paula Al Sabah and Juan Pablo Molyneux
Before dinner in the enchanting Orangerie, the evening’s supporters had the opportunity to indulge in tequila and margarita bars, adding a delightful French-American fair to the culinary experience. In 1948, it turns out, American socialite Margaret "Margarita" Sames, famous for her extravagant parties, needed a unique cocktail for one of her legendary soirées. Drawing on her love for orange Cointreau liquor from France and tequila, she perfected her signature recipe, featuring lime juice and a rim of salt. Her creation, dubbed "Te Margarita" by her husband, became an instant hit, spreading by word of mouth among her infuential friends. With a delightful touch of orange, guests savored each sip.
All the while, gold-clad strolling violinists mingled with the crowd, and after passing through the apartments of Marie Antoinette, the attendees proceeded to dinner. Versailles President Christophe Leribault, French Ambassador Laurent Bili, American Ambassador Denise Bauer, and AFV President Alicia Bryan extended greetings once guests were seated. Ten, Alicia’s father, longtime Texas native JP Bryan and founder of the Bryan Museum in Galveston, recounted the legacy of Texan ties to France, starting with the 17thcentury excursion of René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, and noting the French Legation in Austin, a favorite Texan landmark.
Te tables of ten were lavishly festooned with giant white, red, and foral décor, all designed by Houstonian-turned-Parisian event producer Lucas Somoza. Guests dined on the cuisine of Épis des Bois and Filet de Boeuf en Viennoise de Tomate Confte, all prepared by renowned Parisian caterer, Le Nôtre. Following the sumptuous dinner, how could freworks not be in order? Te sky was illuminated by a spectacular, grand display of feux d’artifce on the Orangerie’s vast parterre, in the manner of the 18th century to baroque music with fountains fowing. Afterward, dessert was served, and guests danced to the band for the post-dinner entertainment.
Other weekend events included a private dinner in the royal mini château, Bagatelle, within the Bois de Boulogne, which is currently undergoing restoration and will be available for private events. Alicia Bryan was dressed in a Stephane Rolland haute couture gown for the Bagatelle dinner, and then Oscar de la Renta for the ball. Guests entered through the château’s portal, bearing the inscription Parva Sed Apta (Small But Suitable). Exquisite foral arrangements adorned the charming rooms as guests sipped champagne and dined in the elegantly paneled salon. Welcome greetings were given by Alicia Bryan and from Princesse Béatrice de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles, AFV French Board member Marie de Noailles, and Jérôme Plouseau, head
Steve and Isha Santamaria
John Bryan, Alicia Bryan, JP & Mary Jon Bryan and Andrea Bryan
Elizabeth Segerstrom & Bruce and Julianne Bartlett
John Guillory
of the French Friends of Versailles. Guests reveled in French baritone David Serero, who performed several songs before a delectable pavlova dessert was served.
Sunday evening ofered guests the opportunity to visit the Hôtel de Soubise et Hôtel de Rohan with AFOV Co-Founder the Vicomte de Rohan. Te vast 18th-century estate, whose origins date to the 14th century, was built by his ancestors, one of the most esteemed families in European history. Confscated during the French Revolution, it now houses the National Archives, displaying some of the most important documents in French history, including the last letter of Marie Antoinette, the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen, and Napoleon’s will. French jazz singers entertained during a private cocktail reception, where some of the couples even took a spin around the foor.
Also, as part of the weekend festivities, AFV members visited the magnifcent Bosquet des Trois Fontaines, AFV’s frst preservation project, three terraces of glorious cascades embellish this delightful garden-within-a-garden, which Louis XIV helped design. Its elaborate tiers of waterworks, rocaille decorations, and central feur-de-lis
fountain displays were scrupulously recreated according to the original 17th-century blueprints and plans. After enjoying champagne in the bosquet, guests passed through the Petit Trianon and along its allée to a garden of potted fowers. Picnic basket lunches were served under trees near the palace’s Pavillon Frais, another AFV restoration project.
On Monday, a farewell cocktail reception was hosted in the elegant Marais mansion of renowned architect Juan Pablo Molyneux and his beautiful wife, Pilar, to wrap up the regal festivities. Molyneux described the creation of the elaborate blue and white tiled entry hall, depicting the Château de Saint-Cloud and other historic French palaces, and led guests through antique-flled rooms they have sumptuously and sensitively restored. For all the activities, convenient transportation was ofered from the Paris’ Hôtel Ritz, Place Vendome to Versailles and back. Benefting the American Friends of Versailles, the organization’s leaders and board members helped make this year’s events a rousing grand success and it was inspiring for guests to see the intense dedication it takes to bring this mission to life. Donations of any size are welcome and plans are already being made for the June 2026 gala. For more information, visit American FriendsOfVersailles.org.
Gregoire Buais and Elizabeth Petersen
Maha Khan
Becca Cason Trash
Donae Cangelosi Chramosta
and her
Our CEO, Jennifer Browning Shemwell
husband Bob Shemwell at the Gala des Fleurs d’Oranger at the Palace of Versailles hosted by The American Friends of Versailles
GLOBAL REACH with a HUMAN TOUCH
GLOBAL REACH with a HUMAN TOUCH
For the best experience selling your home, you need global exposure combined with the singular marketing expertise we deliver at the local level. As an a f liate of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, our firm has the resources to market your property to the highest possible number of buyers.
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INTO THE BLUE
Te Charity Ball Association Celebrates Gala Million-Dollar Fundraising Evening
ByLanceAveryMorgan | Photography by Jenna Beth Lyde, Parish Photography
THE SETTING: Te Charity Ball Association (CBA) of San Antonio’s 69th annual Chrysanthemum Ball was held at the Witte Museum, with a recordbreaking $1 million raised by the almost 400 supporters in attendance. Te elegantly attired black tie guests were ushered into the Zachery Garden for a cocktail reception where Vice President of Decorations Kim Peacock created an elegant evening that began with enjoying the beautiful gala environment.
THE STYLE: Guests then entered Te Mays Family Center, where the foral décor and decorations were inspired by the many splendors of Versailles. Charity Ball President Sharon Seal selected Tifany Blue as the color palette and the tables were draped in a beautiful swirl of blue, gold, and ivory, and topped with gold dinnerware and gold Chiavari chairs. Danny Cuellar and his team from Trinity Flowers provided more fair with the multiple-height table centerpieces, which were adorned with hydrangeas, roses, mums, and assorted other fowers.
Te lighting, created by Inspire, provided a beautiful rendition of the ceiling of Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors. Stuart Seal created beautiful invitations with handdrawn statues that he brought to life, among many other fne touches. Te decoration co-chairs for the gala were Megan Steves, Peggy Hughes, and Linda Blount. Illusions Rentals and Designs provided the table linens, table-top settings, lounge groupings, vinyl cling bars, and vinyl wrap on the dance foor. Te mural prints that decorated the walls were created by IRD.
Te delicious, seated dinner by Rosemary’s Catering was served after Sara Ames gave the invocation. Henry B. Gonzales, III, emceed this year’s program. Vice President of Prizes Courtney Percy orchestrated the elaborate and exciting presentation of Prizes & Prize drawings that ranged from an XT5 Crossover SUV Cadillac, generously donated by Cavender Cadillac, to the Silver Rafe Prize of a Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT Master II donated by Lee Michaels, as well as donations by Kelly Wade Jewelers, Shetler Fine Jewelers, Tenenbaum Jewelers, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and plenty more to support the cause. Te glamorous evening was capped of by entertainment for dancing from the band Te Emerald City.
THE PURPOSE: Te mission of Te Charity Ball Association of San Antonio, Inc., is to support and enhance the quality of life for children of Bexar County. Te Charity Ball Association, whose tenant is Children Beneft Always, was founded in 1954 and has awarded over $27 million to agencies in Bexar County.
Nicole McClane, Sheila Mayfeld and Carla Brozovich
Dottie Cooper, Lily Gretzinger, Courtney Percy, Carrie Catalani, Kim Peacock, Cynthia Miller, Kathleen LeFlore, Amy Swaney, Lee Anne Hendry, Sharon Seal and Marnie Simpson
Cynthia Scofeld, Carrie Catalani, Tricia Tobin, Susan Hall and Melissa Branch
Sharon Seal
Floral décor by Trinity Flowers
Sharon Seal, Bobby Cavender and Catherine Bishop
Kim Peacock, Lee Anne Hendry and Peggy Hughes
Elizabeth and Barry Roberts & Ana Paula Watson
Howard and Jody Lutz
Jeanie Wehmeyer and Danny Cuellar
Tricia and Albert Steves
Scotty Macdaniel, Laura Guglielmo, Mills Buchek, Carla Brozovich, Callie Musselman, Barbie Gonzalez, Jill Rosenthal and Jenny Gibson
Paola and David Lloyd
Clare and Josie Flesher
Jean Alexander and Meriel Bowman
Lisa Turmond, Laurie White, Sarah Gay Connor and Linda Yarborough
Rob and Janet Holliday & Emma and Toby Calvert
Liza Lewis and Stephanie Cavender
Caroline Kuper and Vicki McLaughlin
Steven and Kelly Fry & Jef and Karen Bryant
Sara and John Ames
Linda Camp, Dottie Cooper and Betty Venson
Michele Cadwallader, Gloria Steves, Kathy Johnson, Lee Anne Hendry and Megan Steves
Jane Satel and Courtney Percy
PURSUE R.S.V.P. AUSTIN
STAR POWER EMPOWERS KIDS
Mack, Jack & McConaughey Raises $16 Million Benefting Five Children–Focused Nonproft Organizations
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
THE SETTING: For two days, several thousand of Austin’s most notable children’s advocates, sports lovers, music enthusiasts, fashionistas, and philanthropists turned out for the Capital City’s hottest nonproft event of the year. Tose fortunate enough to attend the 12th annual Mack, Jack & McConaughey event experienced two days of fun sport, incredible music, stunning fashions, and an epic fundraising haul that will live forever in the annals of Texas social and philanthropy lore.
THE STYLE: Te festivities began with a gala where several hundred guests at the ACL Live at the Moody Teater dressed in their favorite cowboy-chic attire. During the cocktail hour, select guests and VIPs had the opportunity to pose for photos on the step and repeat to commemorate the evening before heading to the terrace outside the orchestra level of ACL Live for a cocktail hour. Tere guests sipped on their favorite spirits while perusing an impressive lot of silent auction items.
Te action then moved inside for the main program. While partygoers dined on their meals, they were treated to words from Mack Brown, Jack Ingram, and Matthew McConaughey and viewed touching tributes that showcased how the organization has efectively served its mission to empower kids. Next came an epic live auction and Fund-A-Need helmed by Heath Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer where one package was purchased for over $4 million. Te night was capped of with a concert by Grammy Award®nominated artist Luke Combs, who brought the crowd to their feet as they sang along to his hit tunes.
Sally and Mack Brown, Jessica Bush and Jack Ingram & Camila and Matthew McConaughey
Neiman Marcus model in Oscar de la Renta
Luke Combs performs
Te fun continued the next morning with a golf tournament at Barton Creek Country Club and a fashion show presented by Neiman Marcus. Several hundred guests turned out for the fashion show, which featured the latest collection by legendary designer Oscar de La Renta that dazzled. Te festivities, produced by Jennifer Stevens of JHL Company, concluded where it all began, at ACL Live at the Moody Teater for a Jack & Friends concert led by Jack Ingram, which featured performances by him and several other musicians that capped of two jam-packed and successful days of fun and fundraising.
THE PURPOSE: Mack, Jack & McConaughey, hosted by Mack and Sally Brown, Jack Ingram, and Matthew and Camila McConaughey, raised an awe-inspiring $16 million for the organization. Proceeds from the event will beneft fve nonprofts dedicated to children’s health, education, and wellness, including CureDuchenne, Dell Children’s Medical Center, HeartGift, Just Keep Livin’, and Te Rise School Austin
Ann Mitchell, Brittney Barnette, Gerri Skutta and Jamie Sorrentino
Matthew McConaughey and Jennifer Stevens
Michelle Johnson, Kristi Jones and Holly Mills Gardner
Amy and John Beigel
Chip and Karen Oswalt
Chris Del Conte and Robin Ward
Heath Hale
Kristen Roland and Elif Starr
Parker and Hallie McCollum
Emily Weninger, Jessica Romero and Michelle Atkins
Beth Lucas, Tina Bizar and Stacie Gatz
Marjon Henderson, Lauren Johnson and Jennifer Carnes
DUALITY OF LARGESS
TWO x TWO For AIDS And Art Hosts
$7.6 Million Night For amfAR And Dallas Museum Of Art
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography
by Kevin Tachman, Bruno, Snap Te Picture and Tamytha Cameron
THE SETTING: Te Dallas residence of Howard and Cindy Rachofsky was once again the setting for one of the state’s hottest tickets and largest fundraising galas of the year. Over 515 of the world’s most prominent art patrons, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the 24th Annual TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art gala.
THE STYLE: Upon arrival, the artful, black tie crowd engaged in a lively cocktail hour where patrons sipped on their favorite spirits, including two cocktails named in honor of event host, Cindy Rachofsky: Cindy’s Dirty Martini and Cindy’s Margarita, both featuring Casa Dragones Blanco Tequila. Patrons were also fortunate to preview the striking 122 works of art, each one host Howard Rachofsky had carefully curated. Tese works were also available as items in the silent and live auction. Te action then moved into the 7000-squarefoot, 48-foot-high geodesic domed tent on the Rachofsky grounds for the main program. Todd Fiscus of Todd Events created a magical space that brought nature inside with stunning hues of blue, lavender, and green that resembled the lush green spaces of the Columbian rainforests. While revelers dined on a fve-star, multi-course meal, they were treated to words by the event’s leaders and María Berrío was honored, who received the 2023 amfAR Awards of Excellence For Artistic Contributions to the Fight Against AIDS.
Te evening continued with a live auction helmed by Michael MaCauley, of Sotheby’s, which featured works from world-renowned artists, including María Berrío, Anish Kapoor, Calida Rawles, Maja Ruzinc, and more. Te program concluded with a show-stopping performance by platinum-selling artist Jason Derulo, who brought the crowd to their feet, belting out the tunes to many of his charttopping hits. Guests then enjoyed an after party in the estate’s garden, where revelers had fun well into the night, capping of an epic night for one of the state’s most beloved fundraising events.
THE PURPOSE: TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art, hosted by Howard and Cindy Rachofsky, and John and Lisa Runyon, raised over $7.6 million for amfAR and the Dallas Museum of Art. Over the past 24 years, TWO x TWO has raised over $120 million for the two organizations. Te 25th Annual TWO x TWO For AIDS and Art will be held on October 19, 2024. For more information, visit TwoXTwo.org.
Jason Derulo performs
David and Rae Liu & Michael Fountas
Jimmy Gray, Carly Guiducci, Elle Moody, Ross Moody and Lindsay Johnson
Moll and Charlie Anderson & Kristin Smith
John Runyon and Lisa Runyon & Cindy Rachofsky, Howard Rachofsky
Joyce Goss and Selwyn Rayzor
Brooke Hortenstine, Tim Peck & Suzanne and David Droese
Gene and Jerry Jones
John and Jennifer Eagle
Cameron Silver
Cindy Rachofsky, Bertha Gonzalez Nieves and Howard Rachofsky Dave and Leigh Anne Clark
David Haemisegger, Sarah Haemisegger, Isabelle Haemisegger and Nancy Nasher
Jason and Porschla Kidd
Jason Wu & Deborah and Marc Metrick
Jessica and Dirk Nowitzki
Kurt Wootton and Sarah Calodney
María Berrío and T. Ryan Greenawalt
Nancy Dedman and Brad Kelly
Todd Fiscus and Ceron
Derek and Christen Wilson
MORE EN POINTE
Houston Ballet Dazzles With Annual Gala To Raise $1.6 Million
By Jennifer Roosth | Photography by Wilson Parish
THE SETTING: Te Grand Foyer of the Wortham Teater Center was transformed into royal Vienna’s Hofburg Palace to welcome 500 guests...all dressed to the nines in formal white tie attire to celebrate the 2024 Houston Ballet Ball. Tis year’s event theme drew inspiration from Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Mayerling, the titillating tale about Crown Prince Rudolf, the sole heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the 1880s. During cocktail hour, guests were greeted by balconies adorned in foral draperies and melodies playing from an instrumental trio. In the ballroom, clusters of crystal chandeliers illuminated the oval dance foor, surrounded by hand-painted twenty-foot-tall blue and gold panels. On the tables were dazzling candelabras and fragrant foral centerpieces of white tulips, peonies, roses, hydrangeas, and gray dusty miller atop lace-detailed blue linens, courtesy of Richard Flowers and Te Events Company.
THE STYLE: Te royal Austro-Hungarian motif continued throughout the evening, starting with dinner prepared by City Kitchen. As an after-dinner treat, the Ballet surprised guests with a masterfully crafted performance featuring their very own Houston Ballet Academy Pro students and choreographed by former Company dancer turned Academy Instructor Hayden Stark. Te performance was set to music by Austro-Hungarian composer Franz Lehár and featured six couples. Te audience looked on as the graceful yet lively performance took place, transporting everyone back to the 1880s. Afterward, the guests and Houston Ballet company dancers took to the packed dance foor to enjoy the melodies of Stratosphere, who started of the evening with royal-based songs like ABBA’s Dancing Queen to carry on the regal feel of the night.
THE PURPOSE: Tis year’s Ballet Ball was chaired by Cabrina and Steven Owsley and Margaret and Jonathan Cox and honored longtime Trustee Akemi Saito and her husband, Yasuhiko. Te evening raised $1.6 million for Houston Ballet’s mission to inspire a lasting love for dance in Houston and beyond. Te next Ballet Ball will be held on February 22, 2025. For more information, visit HoustonBallet.org.
Akemi and Yasuhiko Saitoh
Angel Rios, Lynn Wyatt and Richard Flowers
Henry and Jean May
Kelly and Twana Faykus
Margaret Alkek Williams and Jim Nelson
Marguerite Swartz and Elizabeth Barron
Chris and Kristy Bradshaw
Steven and Cabrina Owsley, Yasuhiko and Akemi Saitoh & Jonathan and Margaret Cox
Jay Jones and Terry Wayne Jones
I HEAR A SYMPHONY
Houston Symphony’s VienneseTemed Ball Raises Over $1 Million
By Jennifer Roosth | Photography by Priscilla Dickson and Daniel Ortiz
THE SETTING: Te Post Oak Hotel in Houston was the recent setting for a night that visually transported guests to the other side of the pond. Over 400 of Space City’s most notable art patrons, sociables, and philanthropists, dressed in formal white tie, enjoyed the annual Houston Symphony Ball. Te evening’s opulent theme, Vienna Fête Impériale, provided the evening with an elevated European fair that featured fabulous food, sophisticated music, and, most importantly, a seven-fgure raise for the organization.
THE STYLE: Te evening began in the foyer outside the Post Oak Ballroom for cocktail hour. As guests sipped on their favorite spirits, they perused an exquisitely curated silent auction that included a ten-day cruise on the Regent Seven Seas, tickets to attend the AKRIS fashion show in Paris, and four executive tickets behind the on-deck circle for a Houston Astros game. Te festivities then moved into the ballroom for the main program. More than a few jaws dropped at the stunning room designed by Richard Flowers of Te Events Company. Once partygoers took their seats, they were treated to a multi-course meal by Post Oak’s Executive Chef JeanLuc Royere. During the dinner, patrons were also entertained by professional dancers performing the Viennese Waltz, a beautiful, elegant detail that delighted the crowd. Te festivities were capped o with dancing where revelers partied the night away to the tunes of Q the Band.
THE PURPOSE: Te 2024 Houston Symphony Ball was co-chaired by Tammie and Dr. Charles Johnson, and Drs. Alice Mao Brams and Matt Brams. Brigette and Bashar Kalai, Dr. Sippi Khurana, and Betty & Jesse Tutor were honored for their longtime support of the organization. Te event raised over $1 million for the Houston Symphony to support their ongoing educational and community engagement programs. Te 2025 Houston Symphony Ball will be held on February 8, 2025. For more information, visit HoustonSymphony. org.
Sippi and Ajay Khurana
Joanne King Herring and John Magnum
Betty and Jesse Tudor
Bill Stubbs and Kurt Grether
Daniel Irion and Kirk Kveton
Dr. Charles and Tammie Johnson & Drs. Alice Mao Brams and Matt Brams
Jennifer Roosth and Christine Zu
Lindy and John Rydman Quentin and Aerin Smith
Roslyn Bazzelle Mitchell and Elia Gabbanelli
Ralph Burch and Vicki West
FIESTA'S PAGEANTRY
Te Order Of Te Alamo Hosts Court of Monumental Discovery Coronation At Fiesta
ByLanceAveryMorgan | Photography by Clementson Photography
THE SETTING: With the celebration of San Antonio's beloved Fiesta events and traditions, the Order of the Alamo presented the Court of the Monumental Discovery, in a dazzling ceremony staged at the enchanting Majestic Teater.
THE STYLE: Tis year's theme transported spectators on an epic visual adventure that focused on actual discoveries and inventions that have shaped our lives. Whether born out of necessity or curiosity, with intentionality or creative genius, these inspirations have enormous cultural signifcance and have made our world a better place. We are the benefciaries of these great works that have marked human evolution for centuries as they have positively afected all of our lives.
Te Mistress of the Robes, Francie Calgaard, worked tirelessly alongside dressmakers to bring the elaborate vision of each masterpiece to fruition...and to add an element of fun to the gowns. Under Calgaard's leadership, the creative team began designing the court’s 26 Queen, Princess, and Duchess dresses and robes for many months before the coronation ceremony. Te Court Artists were Wendy Goetting and Amy White.
Te Queen of the Court of Monumental Discovery was Carlyle (Carly) Fuhrmann, the daughter of Joy Fuhrmann of San Antonio and the late Triple Fuhrmann. She was attended by Princess Mollie Kelleher, the daughter of Kathy and David Kelleher of San Antonio, along with 24 duchesses from San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and beyond. Te 2024 President of the Order of the Alamo was Eric Reblin. Te Coronation Chairman was Charles Jefers, while Kurt Steves served as Lord High Chamberlain.
THE PURPOSE: Fiesta was founded in 1891 as a one-time parade event to honor the members of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Now, the Fiesta® San Antonio Commission Inc. is a nonproft, volunteer, self-supporting organization that plans, promotes, coordinates, and preserves Fiesta San Antonio through the support of its participating member organizations in presenting a safe, educational, annual celebration of the diverse heritage, culture, and spirit of San Antonio for its residents and visitors.
Sophia Cantu, Helen Cheever, Natalie Scheifele, Carolyn Ferreyro, Annie Volpe, Ally Adelman, Peyton Levy and Megan Lashley
Te Queen of the Court of Monumental Discovery Carlyle Ivy Fuhrmann
Princess of Artisan Masterpieces Mollie Moore Kelleher
Jillian and James Moon, Joy Fuhrmann, Sebastian Bathie & Jenna Belle Fuhrmann
Princess of Artisan Masterpieces Mollie Kelleher and Te Queen of the Court of Monumental Discovery Carlyle Fuhrmann
Anna Moritz, Mia Sabom and Catherine Duncan
Madeleine Franke, Hope Cheever and Tatum Kiselis
Will Zachry, Mollie Kelleher & David and Kathy Kelleher
Mark Watson and Katalina Watson
Te Court of Monumental Discovery
Desiree Holton, Emma Williams, Norah Mawad, Matty Fultineer and Annabelle Teirl
Paige Johnson and Kathy Johnson
Mallory Clifton, Caroline Medlin, Keely Levine, Mallory Nagel, Carter Kreimer, Caroline Adamson, Julia Robinson, Mary Ives Giblin, Ella Behnke and Madison Grinder
Susan Whaley, Margaret Mitchell, Jackie Meyer, Lauren Whaley and Drew Whaley
Te Queen of the Court of Monumental Discovery Carlyle Fuhrmann
Chris Basse, Sloane Basse and Cami Basse
PURSUE R.S.V.P. DALLAS
RANCH STYLE MEANS
Dallas’ 50th Cattle Baron’s Ball Features Performance By Shania Twain
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass
THE SETTING: Te legendary Southfork Ranch, home to the iconic show Dallas, was the setting for an epic night of fundraising that will long live in the annals of Texas social lore. Over 3,000 of North Texas’s most notable community leaders, music lovers, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 50th annual Cattle Baron’s Ball benefting the American Cancer Society.
THE STYLE: Te “Western glam” attired crowd featured classic denim and cowboy hats mixed with bright colors, metallics, and sequins, creating a welcoming environment that oozed Texas hospitality. Te night began with a VIP reception where select guests enjoyed the stunning grounds of Southfork while sipping their favorite spirits. Tey were then joined by the rest of the revelers, who brought the fun and energy levels even higher as they purchased rafe tickets for a series of luxury prizes announced later in the evening.
Next came a spirited live auction with an array of luxury experiences, including one special winner who won the ultimate instant gratifcation auction item: the opportunity to sit onstage during the performance of music legend Shania Twain. Te night's highlight was the performance by Twain herself, who had the crowd on their feet as she belted out a mix of her classic hits and newer material. Te night was capped of with an after party where the fun continued into the wee hours of the morning to the tunes of the Randy Rogers Band.
THE PURPOSE: Te 50th Annual Cattle Baron’s Ball, co-chaired by Andrea Cheek and Isabell Novakov Higginbotham, raised over $5.3 million for the American Cancer Society. Te largest single-night fundraiser for the organization in the United States each year, the event has raised over $98 million over the past 50 years for cancer research initiatives, which have helped result in a 33% decline in cancer mortality between 1991 and 2020. Te 51st Annual Cattle Baron’s Ball, co-chaired by Lora Farris and Marjon Zabihi Henderson, will be on September 28, 2024. For more information, please visit CattleBaronsBall.com.
Ava Danuser during Paddle Raise
Avril Terry
Kathryn Copple, Laura Black, Bailey Lloyd, Elizabeth Ward Creel, Erika Burton and Simone Anderson Lawrence and Katy Bock
Melissa Smrekar, Shelby Foster and Hayley Louden
Nina Sachse, Daniella Giglio, and Rachel Osburn
Shania Twain performs
Ashley O'Malley, Sharon Lee Clark, Katy Brooks and Sarah Groves
Jen Walters, Christin Livesay, Taryn McDonald, Lisa Hewitt and Kelly Garlock
Teresa Parkinson, Stacey Relton, Cynthia Everitt, Jennifer Burns, Lora Farris, Heather Baker, Caroline Uihlein and Lauren Lapeyre Brown
Trey Higginbotham and Isabell Novakov Higginbotham & Andrea and Heath Cheek
HONORING THE BEST
Folds of Honor Gala Honors Veterans, Raises Over $3 Million
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tomas Garza, Lisa Means and Rob Wythe
THE SETTING: Veteran’s Day at AT&T Stadium in Dallas was the setting for an epic and emotional night of fundraising that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget. Over 1,700 North Texas community, social, and philanthropic leaders turned out for the annual Folds of Honor Gala. Presented by Ryan, a tax services company, the night included touching tributes and moving performances in honor of those who have sacrifced for our country.
THE STYLE: Te black tie crowd kicked of the evening with a VIP reception in the Dallas Cowboys locker room, where, upon arrival, guests posed for photos with various Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders to commemorate the evening. Te feld was transformed into a space of patriotic elegance with tables draped in red, white, and blue. As guests dined on their multicourse meals, Emcee and NBC 5 Anchor Meredith Land kept the evening moving at a brisk pace while also allowing patrons the space to acknowledge emotional moments such as the empty POW/MIA table in honor of the fallen service members. Next came words from the organization’s leaders and military family members who have benefted from Folds of Honor scholarships. Guests were also treated to the emotional story of Folds of Honor Founder Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney about what inspired him to start the organization. Te program concluded with a Give from the Heart appeal, which raised an inspiring $1.2 million. Te fun then continued with an after party where revelers danced the night away to the tunes of Party Machine.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, where Holly and Jim Trester served as honorary chairs, raised nearly $3.2 million for Folds of Honor. Proceeds from the evening will go toward scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen and disabled military members. Since its founding in 2007, the organization has awarded over 51,000 scholarships totaling over $240 million. In 2023, Folds of Honor provided 1,131 scholarships totaling over $5.1 million to Texas residents. Te 2024 Folds of Honor will be on November 9, 2024. For more information, visit FoldsOfHonor.org.
Meredith Land
Tony Ryan, Peter Redlingshafer, Meredith Ryan and Ray Redlingshafer
Dan Rooney & Sadie and Col. Randy Cason
Holly and Jim Trester
James Colton
Julie Harvick, Meredith Allen Connally, Alex Bjornnes and Mary Scott
Krystle and Chad Craycraft
Meredith and Dan Rath
Annie and Travis Jones
Sarah and Ty Duncan
MEET MAGIC MOMENTUM , PURSUE R.S.V.P. DALLAS
Art Ball 2024 Celebrated Dallas Museum Of Art’s 62nd Gala Event
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Tamytha Cameron, Nate Rehlander, and Rob Wythe
THE SETTING: Recently, many art connoisseurs, fashion afcionados, and infuential fgures stepped into the sophisticated elegance of Art Ball 2024 presented by Neiman Marcus. At the Dallas Museum of Art, embarking on its 62nd year, the gala continued its legacy with an unforgettable black tie afair, themed Momentum. Featuring an evening of dinner, drinks, a live auction, and an exciting after party, the event showcased the dynamic and forward-thinking vision of the DMA, all while honoring the legacy and impact of the organization. Tis year’s theme embodied the pulsating force propelling the Dallas Museum of Art forward, infusing the Dallas Arts District with a vibrant sense of energy and progression.
THE STYLE: Art Ball guests arrived at the Dallas Museum of Art’s Hamon Entrance for a sophisticated evening that was created and designed by Todd Fiscus of Todd Events. Guests entered a sleek, foor-to-ceiling, climate-controlled tent where they enjoyed cocktails and lively conversation in the PNC Lounge. Guests were clamoring for a turn at the interactive photo booth, designed to look like an elevator adorned with an insignia from Neiman Marcus. With it, mechanical doors opened and closed allowing attendees to direct their own slow-motion video. Guests then ventured to the Hamon Atrium for dinner while tunes from DJ Romi Q echoed throughout the space.
After dinner, late-night revelers returned to Eagle Family Plaza for a rousing after party. A décor fip during dinner had transformed it into a seductive space in an homage to Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle in New York City. Te room showcased Dallas-style foating artworks in the style of artist Ludwig Bemelman. Guests found themselves up on their feet dancing to a sensational showcase by the talented LA-based Sergio Vellatti, who crooned big band tunes and pop vocals throughout the night. Showgirls, dressed in dazzling costumes, magically appeared during several of the numbers.
THE PURPOSE: Te event’s cochairs were Andy Smith and Paul von Wupperfeld. All Art Ball proceeds directly support the DMA’s commitment to presenting diverse exhibitions, providing innovative educational and public programs, and caring for a collection of over 25,000 objects—all while ofering engaging access to incredible works of art. DMA is an inclusive, welcoming space for everyone to see its global collection of more than 25,000 works spanning 5,000 years of history and a range of world cultures, and it is one of the largest art museums in the United States.
Paul von Wupperfeld and Andy Smith
Elaine Agather and Peggy Sewell
Ryan Ross, Mary McGreevy, William Jennings and Robbie Kruithof
Lynn McBee and Jef Netzer
Hamilton Sneed and Cynthia Smoot
Eric and Jojo Fleiss & Amanda and Charlie Shufeldt
Jef and Marlo Melucci
Anna Cates, Field and Sabrina Harrison, Sanjay Hathiramani and Rich Pendleton
Melinda and Mark Knowles & Tanya and Daniel Rice
Agustin Arteaga and Gowri N. Sharma
Guillermo and Adriana Perales & Adrian and Alana Sada
RANGE ROVING
South Texas Charity Weekend Celebrates Another Milestone Year
By Caroline McAllister | Photography by Marie Langmore and Marks Moore
THE SETTING: Over 300 guests from across the state and country traveled to Kingsville, at the heart of South Texas’s vast native lands, to celebrate Carter Smith, being honored as the 2024 South Texan of the Year. Guests enjoyed fne dining and exclusive shopping experiences from around the world while steps away from the legendary King Ranch’s working horses milling in green pastures. Te RK Group transformed a section of pasture to serve as the headquarters for this special celebration.
THE STYLE: Te South Texas Charity Weekend festivities kicked of with a Friday night cocktail reception. Not only did this evening serve as the welcome to new and old friends alike to South Texas, but it also provided guests with the opportunity to unique shopping opportunities featuring the best of the best when it comes to belts, boots, hats, artwork, jewelry, clothing, and leather goods. On Saturday, guests chose between quail hunting on the legendary King Ranch, a guided tour of the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Center and Garden, or a shooting clinic with instruction from world-class instructors Charlie Wilson, Bill Massey, and Raye Massey. A traditional cow camp lunch allowed guests to experience some of South Texas’s best local fare. Te pinnacle of the weekend took place Saturday evening when guests gathered to celebrate Carter Smith as the 2024 South Texan of the Year. Tis award is presented annually to recognize individuals whose exemplary leadership, unselfsh service, and generous contributions have made a diference in the lives of the citizens of South Texas. Smith is a worthy recipient, having served his entire career focused on Texas conservation.
Until last year, Smith was Executive Director for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), where he was responsible for 3,300 employees in areas including state parks, inland and coastal fsheries, wildlife management, law enforcement, fshing/hunting/boating, and outdoor education/outreach. He was particularly active in the areas of private lands conservation, state park funding, acquisition of additional state park and wildlife management areas, children in nature initiatives, myriad fsh and wildlife conservation issues, and coordinating the state’s conservation response and investments along the Gulf Coast following the Deepwater Horizon Incident. In addition, he worked
Fred Bryant and Carter Smith
Janell Kleberg & Beaver and Joanie Aplin
Tio Kleberg dressed as the Texas Tech Masked Rider
Billy and Lauren Gunther, Cornelius Dupre & Beaver and Joanie Aplin
Carla Northington, Carolyn Johnson and Kathy Musgrave
Chris and Kim Kelberg, Colt Kleberg, Justus Kleberg, and King Kleberg
Chris Kleberg, CarterSmith, Jay Kleberg and Cardo Kleberg
Presnall and Stephanie Cage, Kathy Musgarve and Stephanie Musgrave
Stacy and Carter Smith, MollyMcAdams & John and Katy Oliver
Steve and Vicki Weyel, Sarah Bynam & Brad and Melissa Bynam
closely with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation to leverage signifcant private philanthropy with public resources to advance state fsh, wildlife, and park-related conservation priorities. Prior to his role at TPWD, Smith was the Texas State Director for Te Nature Conservancy, where he led the Texas team in protecting important habitats in areas like the Devil's River, the Edwards Aquifer, the Laguna Madre, and the Davis Mountains.
A native of Central Texas, Smith holds a B.S. from Texas Tech University and an M.S. from Yale University. He has served on numerous conservation-related boards and advisory councils, including as Chairman of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and President of the Southeastern and Western Associations of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. He is a member of the Texas Order of St. Hubertus, the Boone & Crockett Club, and a lifetime member of the Texas Bighorn Society, the Dallas Safari Club, and the Houston Safari Club. He serves as a board member of the Texas Agricultural Land Trust Foundation, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, and the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute. Smith was named an outstanding alumnus by departments at Yale University and Texas Tech and has been honored by the Texas Wildlife Association, the Audubon Society, the Botanical Research Institute of Texas, the Harvey Weil Foundation, and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies for lifetime achievement in conserving fsh, wildlife, and natural resources for the public trust. He resides in Austin with his wife, Stacy, and their son, Ryland, where they attend Woodlawn Baptist Church. Tey actively manage and enjoy their farm and ranch holdings in the Hill Country, North Texas, and Central California. Smith is an avid bird and big- game hunter, fsherman, and general outdoors enthusiast.
Guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner provided by Rosemary’s Catering. As is tradition, Tio Kleberg made a memorable entrance when it came time to honor Smith, when he entered dressed as the Texas Tech mascot, Te Masked Rider, while the Texas Tech fght song played loudly. Dr. Fred Bryant (2017 South Texan of the Year) introduced Smith and shared some fond memories of having Smith as a student at Texas Tech. Smith was presented with a beautiful watercolor painting of him in the feld created by South Texas artist Mark Kohler. Following the award presentation, the evening then shifted to a live auction with treasures one can only fnd at a South Texas Charity Weekend. On Sunday morning, guests gathered for a farewell breakfast at the King Ranch pool house, surrounded by the history of the Main House.
THE PURPOSE: South Texas Charity Weekend, Inc., which raised a little over $1.2 million this year, benefts the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, the King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Kleberg, and HALO- Flight. Te 2025 South Texas Charity Weekend will be held on January 24- 26, 2025. For more information, visit SouthTexasCharityWeekend.org.
Carter Smith, John Tames, John Oliver, Tio Kleberg, MarkJohnson and Presnall Cage
Myrka Alvarez and Marlena & Omar Alvarez
Sherri and Bobby Patton
Caroline McAllister, Jimmy McAllen and Campbell Cage
Eric and, Lauren Fisher, Jack Fisher, Claire Fisher and Andrew Fisher
Tres and Olive Ann Kleberg & Dick and Jimmie Ruth Evans
Cornelius Dupre and Tio Kleberg
Ollabelle Hall and Family
Mason King, Chris Kleberg, Omar Alvarez and Mark Johnson
CLIMB THE HIGHEST MOUNTAIN
Memorial Hermann's No Mountain High Enough Gala Dazzles In $4.8 Million Night
By
Rob Giardinelli | Photography
by Katy Anderson, Johnny Tan, and Michelle Watson
THE SETTING: Te Hilton AmericasHouston was the setting for one of the city’s top galas and, as always, raised the stakes for fun and fundraising in a city already well-known for hosting epic philanthropic events. Over 500 business leaders, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for Memorial Hermann’s annual spring gala. Te theme, No Mountain High Enough, was in full display throughout the night and the result was an event that climbed the highest mountain and soared to new heights.
THE STYLE: Te black tie-attired crowd featured a vibrant mix of ensembles with bright colors blending with more traditional formal wear, creating a sophisticated environment for all. Te evening began with a cocktail reception in the ballroom’s foyer. After guests posed for photos on a stunning, mountainstyle step and repeat that beautifully combined pastel and white fowers with green foral elements, they enjoyed a cocktail and mingled about. Patrons then headed to the ballroom for dinner and the main program.
Revelers were greeted with a choir of Memorial Hermann employees singing Ain’t No Mountain High Enough alongside the Ernest Walker Band, in honor of the evening’s theme. As diners savored a multi-course meal courtesy of Chef Aaron Bludorn, they were treated to words from the event’s leaders on how their support helps assist so many patients in the Memorial Hermann system. Te crescendo of the evening happened during the dessert portion with the announcement of a $500,000 contribution, which resulted in a furry of additional donations. Te fun continued well into the night with an after party where revelers could dance the night away.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, chaired by Hallie Vanderhider, honored longtime supporters Melinda and Greg Armstrong, Linda and Willie Chiang, Jane and Harry Pefanis, and Plains All American, and raised over $4.8 million for the Memorial Hermann Foundation. Proceeds raised from the event will beneft the Memorial Hermann programs and equipment, including Memorial Hermann Life Flight®, which is the nation’s busiest air ambulance service.
Hallie Vanderhider
Adrienne and Snehal Amin
Alie Pruner and Tandra Perkins
Anne Neeson and Craig Janies
Dr. Ken and Kathy Wells & Alvin Abraham and Nick Nagurski
Gail and Greg Garland
Keith and Alice Mosing & Elizabeth Petersen
Tom Flanagan and Susan Sarofm
Tony Bradfeld and Anita Sehgal
Willie and Linda Chiang, Greg and Melinda Armstrong & Jane and Harry Pefanis
Bill Baldwin and Fady Armanious
TOASTING A RECORD
St.
David’s
Foundation Toast of the Town Breaks Fundraising Record
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Matthew Fuller
THE SETTING: During May, over 600 of the top community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out to celebrate a milestone for one of Austin’s most beloved fundraising events. Toast of the Town, benefting the St. David’s Foundation, celebrated the 40th anniversary of this spring staple of the Austin social scene by hosting a curated list of 18 tailored, intimate events ranging from 8 to 80 guests. Tis year, for the frst time, at least one Toast party was held in each of the fve counties that St. David’s Healthcare serves.
THE STYLE: Each gathering featured an Austin-chic crowd who enjoyed bespoke experiences at highly coveted, unique, and sought-after spaces. Te Toast season had an epic start out of the gate with a Western-themed event at the legendary Franklin Barbecue with Austin Gamblers CEO JJ Gottsch and Head Coach Michael Gafney. Guests enjoyed some of the establishment’s barbecue and heard tales from the professional bull riding circuit. In addition to Franklin’s, revelers also had the opportunity to eat, drink, and be merry at an array of Austin’s most sought-after restaurants. During the month, patrons of Toast parties dined at local hot spots, including J Carver’s, Te Pershing, Donn’s Depot, Scholz Garten, a farm-to-table wine dinner at Eden East, and a dining experience with two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey.
Patrons also had the opportunity to experience many other one-of-a-kind experiences throughout the month with a dazzling array of events that had something for everyone. Tose who love sports and fashion had several opportunities to experience a night with notable University of Texas icons. Tese included a night at Te Austonian with UT Head Football Coach Steve Sarkisian and style-setting Loreal Sarkisian, a night at the Austin home of Melissa and Kent Ferguson with UT Athletic Director Chris del Conte, and a brunch at Nômadé with UT Volleyball Head Coach Jerritt Elliott.
Tose who love culture were treated to several fun experiences throughout the Austin area. Tese events included an evening in Lockhart where guests checked out several women-owned establishments, a night on the Georgetown Square with PBS’s Te Daytripper host Chet Garner, Dino-hunting at the newly reopened Texas Science and Natural History Museum, and
First Lady Cecilia Abbott and Laurée Mofett
Rae Hill, Sonja Holt and Tobie Funte
Te scene at a St. David's Toast event
Ray Benson performs
Loreal Sarkisian, Sara Hutson and Steve Sarkisian
Sophia Del Conte and Kent Ferguson
Sylvia and Julian Huerta
Yvonne Wong, Roopa Kansagra and Robin Breed
an evening with Last Plane Out of Saigon author Richard Pena.
No Austin party series would be complete without music. Troughout the month, music lovers were treated to a series of performances. Tis included Austin icon Ray Benson hosting a concert for 50 at Te Music Box House, a night at a Texas Hill Country estate to listen to tunes performed by country band Te Derailers, and the fnal Toast party of the year, which was a night with Asleep at the Wheel, Floyd Domino, and Danny Levin at Arlo Studios.
THE PURPOSE: Te 40th Annual Toast of the Town led by Event Chair Tobie Funte, Vice Chair Laurée Mofett, and Honorary Chair Ray Benson raised a record amount of nearly $2.3 million for the St. David’s Foundation. Proceeds from each year’s Toast party series beneft the Neal Kocurek Scholarship Program, which provides Central Texas high school seniors an annual $7,500 scholarship for up to eight years for those pursuing medical careers. Since establishing the Neal Kocurek Scholarship Program in 2005, over 700 students in Travis, Hays, Williamson, Caldwell, and Bastrop counties have received scholarships. Te 41st Annual Toast of the Town party series will be held in May 2025. For more information, visit ToastAustin.org.
Raven and Trey Eilers & Scott and Cassie Bale
Anant Praba, Connie Hsu, Hung Nguyen and Cindy Hsu
Cara Abazari & Dinah and Ryan Street
Hillary Bellm, Rushmi Kumar, Andrew McCalla and Pradeep Kumar
Cami Cobb, Megan Cobb, Tobie Funte and Erika Freels
Christina Tompson and Melissa Moehring
Conchita Gusman, Rosie McGill and Wayne Gusman
Forrest and Ashley Wilson & Janice and Todd Mattocks
Frances Pearce & Jaynee and John Lancaster
Jenny and the Corn Ponies perform
Karin and Bob Stern & John and Donna Villacis
Lacy Hunt and JK Baxter Hunt
Laurée Mofett and Murray Ross
Lindsay Smith and Cat Duong Valadez
Sally Warnecke, Deborah O'Connell and Nathan Warnecke
Michelle Bonilla, Stacy Laird, Ray Bonilla and Charles Laird
Susan Seale and Lisa Trahan
A REGAL ADVENTURE
House of DIFFA’s Royalty Untamed Takes Art Of Fashion & Fundraising To Te Next Level
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Danny Campbell, Tamytha Cameron, Tomas Garza, and Francesca Nelo
THE SETTING: Te Sheraton Dallas was the setting for Texas’ own version of the Met Gala. Over 1,200 of the state’s most notable community leaders, sociables, fashion lovers, and philanthropists turned out for the 32nd annual House of DIFFA. Tis year’s theme, Royalty Untamed, included incredible fashion and moving tributes for a worthy cause.
THE STYLE: Te avant-garde chic crowd brought an amazing array of fashions that had to be seen to be believed. Classic black tie ensembles mixed with avantgarde gowns and custom suits created a festive environment for all attendees. Partygoers began the night by posing for images on the vibrant red and black step and repeat. Next, they gathered in the ballroom foyer for the cocktail hour. During the cocktail reception, guests perused DIFFA’s legendary silent auction that included over 80 customized jackets from a range of high-profle designers.
Te doors then opened to the ballroom and attendees fled in for the main program where guests were treated to words from the event leaders showcasing how DIFFA has positively impacted the lives of so many throughout Texas. Guests also participated in a spirited live auction that raised a record amount of funds from luxe packages. Te night's main event was an epic fashion show, where hundreds of models strutted down the runway in stunning couture looks that wowed the crowd. Te event f with an after party where the fun continued into the wee hours of the
THE PURPOSE: House of DIFFA: Royalty Untamed was co-chaired by Tim Garippa and Jacob Samson. Proceeds raised from DIFFA will provide grants and funds to various nonprofts in North Texas that provide AIDS services to those living with HIV and AIDS throughout the state. Te 2025 House of DIFFA will be on May 3, 2025. For more information, visit DIFFADallas.org.
Veda Von Bergen and Kyle Breaux
Filipe and Jason Harlow
Garrett McGrew, Haley Clark and Richard Rivas
JR Shoman, Gant Tiede and Jef Fielder
Rick Castillo & Rhiannon and Jef Bolen
LeeAnne Locken & Brad Pritchett and David Chadd
Tim Garippa, Steve Lopez, Jacob Samson and Ken Weber
Eric Bright, Melanie Jernigan and Seth Brown
Steven Borick, Neil Tomas, Steven Pace and Keith Carlisle
Violinist with Q the Band
A GROOVY TIME
Houston Children’s Charity Gala Dazzles With 60s Teme In $4.2 Million Night
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography Courtesy of Houston Children’s Charity
THE SETTING: Te Post Oak Hotel in Houston was the setting for a dazzling night of fundraising. A sold-out crowd of over 700 was on hand for the 26th annual Houston Children’s Charity gala. Boasting a Peace, Love, and Rock & Roll theme, the night brought an amped up-level of fun that included touching tributes, fabulous music, and an epic amount of money raised for one of Houston’s most beloved charitable organizations.
THE STYLE: Te Groovy-chic crowd brought a festive mix of black tie ensembles that complemented those who celebrated the theme with their psychedelic looks. Te night began with a cocktail hour in the foyer outside Te Post Oak Ballroom, where guests sipped on their favorite spirits. Ten, the action moved to the ballroom for the main program, where Dave Ward served as emcee, keeping the festivities fowing at a brisk pace. As revelers dined on their scrumptious multi-course meals, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders, including Houston Children’s Charity Board Chair Tillman Fertitta, as well as CEO Laura Ward.
Additionally, Trini Mendenhall-Royalty was honored with the Lifetime of Giving award for her longtime support of the organization. Next came a spirited live auction and paddles-up that garnered enough to underwrite 45 vans for the Houston Children’s Charity’s Chariots for Children program. Te night was capped of with a far-out music performance by a trio of iconic 60s bands: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, Gary Puckett & Union Gap, and Te Association, all of which had partygoers dancing to their epic tunes that kept the fun going well into the night.
THE PURPOSE: Te 26th annual Houston Children’s Charity gala raised a jaw-dropping $4.2 million for the organization. Proceeds from the event will beneft HCC’s programs and services, which serve underprivileged, abused, and disabled children in the Houston area. Te 27th Annual Houston Children’s Charity gala will be held on October 19, 2024. For more information, visit HoustonChildrensCharity.org.
Sueanne and Randy Nichols
Scotty and KK West Gary Becker
Herman Hermits starring Peter Noone
Lee and Tricia Zieben & Brandon and Jennifer Dewan
Robert Dale, Ashley Parker, Maria Moncada Alaoui and Marianna Brasel
Trini Mendenhall Royalty and Phillip Royalty
Russell Ybarra, Tilman Fertitta, Laura Ward and Gary Petersen
Michael Fertitta, Paige Fertitta, Blake Fertitta, Blayne Fertitta and Patrick Fertitta
EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSES
Texas Biomedical Forum Celebrates In
Grand Style At 53rd Gala
By Lance Avery Morgan | Photography by Clementson Photography
THE SETTING: Te Argyle was the perfect setting for this year’s gala of the Texas Biomedical Forum, a nonproft, membership-based organization of women. It was founded with the mission to raise funds for early-stage research at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute. La Vie En Rose was selected as the theme in celebration of a rosy and bright future at Texas Biomed. Te vibe was convivial and elegant, with Meredith Alvarez of Bell Papel designing and executing the exquisite invitations and event programs, while Holly Besing Designs created the event planning and foral décor.
THE STYLE: Te evening began with cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres and the sounds of the Monte Vista Strings Quartet under a beautiful white tent adorned with tassels and resplendent in shades of pink foral. Guests were then seated for a delicious, signature dinner that included the crowd-favorite pepper bomb steak and a pink mousse dessert shaped like a rose. Te lively piano music by Kenneth Davison, Berni Martini, and Monica Moore flled the air throughout the venue as guests dined. Te 10-piece Revue Show Band was the after party entertainment that kept the dance foor flled all night. Many guests participated in the Ribbon Pull, an interactive giving initiative whereby participants pay to pull a long-stemmed rose to reveal their prize. Tis fun and successful fundraising activity was originally designed for the Forum Gala 2022 and is now being replicated across the city due to its success and popularity.
THE PURPOSE: Tis year’s event cochairs were Bonnie Muecke and Jayme Russell. Te gala assistant was Allegra Hawkins, and the table sales chair was Emily McMurray. Te gala treasurer was Avril Byrne and serving as Forum president was Rebecca Nathan. Te Texas Biomedical Forum and Gala committee wish to thank their many patrons and supporters, including the room and table sponsors and event underwriters who made this year such a success. Funds raised from the evening help fund early-stage research at Texas Biomed, allowing scientists to then apply for grants from larger donors. Over the past 20 years, the Forum has awarded $4.8 million in pilot study grants, which has enabled Texas Biomed researchers to apply for over $90 million in outside funding, amounting to an almost 20-fold return on investment. Initial numbers indicate this year’s event raised over a million dollars for science.
Texas Biomedical Forum Board of Trustees
Dr. Larry Schlesinger and Judy Schlesinger
Guests in the Rose Room
Jayme Russell and Bonnie Muecke
Nicole McClane, Meredith Howard and Linda Gail Dullnig
Dr. Marc Erian and Dr. Jennifer Erian & Rachel and Dan Miller
Avril Byrne, Rebecca Nathan, Eva Holliday, Joannah Pickett and Adrianna Grossman
Courtesy of Terrell Martin Photography
SWINGING FOR THE FENCES
Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation Raises $2.5 Million On Te Turf
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography courtesy of the Texas Rangers
THE SETTING: Nearly 1,500 guests gathered on the outfeld turf at the Globe Life Field for the TEX Gala presented by Choctaw Casinos & Resorts in support of the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation. Te VIP Reception, presented by American Airlines, had guests mingling with National Baseball Hall of Famer Iván “Pudge” Rodríguez, who also received his World Series Championship ring during the reception. When the West Marketplace gates opened to the guests, they made their way down to the feld for cocktails and carnival-style games reminiscent of the Texas State Fair’s famous Midway. Photo opportunities were plentiful, and the silent auction was chock-full of autographed sports and Hollywood memorabilia, assorted gift baskets, and an array of oneof-a-kind items.
THE STYLE: After cocktail hour, presented by Coca-Cola, guests enjoyed a seated dinner and a brief video about the Texas Rangers Foundation, bringing life to the causes they were collectively there to support. Te live auction followed and certainly did not disappoint. Packages included a VIP All-Star Week experience, suites to Globe Life Field’s 2024 concerts, luxury vacations, and, as an impromptu surprise, country music’s Pat Green took the stage to auction of a private concert. A handful of Texas Rangers players and coaches, alongside the attendees, enjoyed the evening and the big fnale, a concert from Country Music Hall of Famers Brooks & Dunn. Tey sang classics like Boot Scootin’ Boogie, Neon Moon, and You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone.
THE PURPOSE: Te TEX Gala is the Foundation’s biggest fundraising event of the year, propelling the charitable component of the World Series Champions Texas Rangers organization to function to its fullest potential. Tis year’s event raised a record-high of $2.5 million in gross revenue, which will directly impact those who beneft from the Rangers Foundation’s year-round programming, which includes the Texas Rangers Youth Academy, education-based initiatives and scholarships, community distributions, and military/frst responder-focused initiatives. Tis year’s record-setting night brings the combined total raised since the TEX Gala’s inception in 2021 to a whopping $7.975 million.
Andrew and Jordan Heaney
Brooks and Dunn perform
Bruce and Kim Bochy Jacob and Stacey deGrom
Nathniel Lowe and Brenna Karwich
Cody and Madi Bradford & Rachel and Davis Wendzel
Tyler and Ashley Mahle
Brooks and Dunn perform
BIG TRIUMPH
Te Big Good Dazzles In $1.3 Million Night
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Lightly Photography
THE SETTING: Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall in Fort Worth was the setting for an event that has quickly become the hottest ticket in Cowtown. Several hundred of the area’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for Te Big Good’s third annual event, for an unforgettable night of good food, great music, and an incredible seven-fgure fundraising haul.
THE STYLE: Te crowd dressed in their best cowboy-chic attire with an elegant mix of dresses, sportscoats, hats, and boots, creating a welcoming environment for all who attended. Te fun began the second guests walked into the door as they were treated to beautiful vocals from artist Olivia Harms. After revelers cozied up to the bar to grab a cocktail, they perused an impressive silent auction that featured gifts donated by many of Fort Worth’s top merchants, including M.L. Leddy’s, Bachendorf’s, Don Artemio, and Canyon Ranch.
Partygoers then took to their seats for the main program. As guests dined on dinner, they were treated to a live auction, with the most coveted item being a trip to see Coldplay perform live in Dublin, as well as a trip to visit Palmaz Vineyard’s underground winery in Napa. Kelsey Patterson then took to the stage to announce that Te Rainwater Foundation would match $500,000 of the community’s donations for the evening’s Fund-A-Need. Te audience was also treated to words from Gary Patterson and Leon Bridges, with Bridges capping of the evening with a concert where revelers danced the night away to his iconic tunes.
THE PURPOSE: Te 3rd annual Te Big Good founded by Gary and Kelsey Patterson and Leon Bridges, was a resounding success, raising over $1.3 million for the organization. Te Big Good works with North Texas community leaders to assess developing needs within the growing North Texas Community. Benefciary nonprofts of Te Big Good include the Tarrant County To and Trough Partnership, United Community Center, and UpSpire. Te Big Good 2025 will be held on April 3, 2025. For more information, visit TeBigGood.org.
Conor Rainbolt
Abraham Alexander and Andrea Wilson
Craig Kelly and Brad Fricks
Gary Patterson
Leon Bridges performs
Mike and Marilyn Berry, Dee and Dana Kelly & George Young
Nic Sheridan
Leon Bridges & Kelsey and Gary Patterson
Tara and Jay McCall
Kelsey Patterson
Allison Montesi, Olivia Kearney, Linda Young
ASIAN MAGNIFICENCE
Asia Society Texas’ Tiger Ball Triumphs In $1.5M Evening
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Daniel Ortiz and Wilson Parrish
THE SETTING: Te Asia Society Texas venue in Houston was the recent setting for one of the city’s most anticipated and best social events of the year. Over 550 of the city’s most notable sociables, art patrons, philanthropists, and community leaders turned out for Tiger Ball 2024. Te night’s theme, Celebrating Magnifcent Asia, was magnifcently refected with fabulous people, beautiful décor, and scrumptious food to make this a night to remember in the city.
THE STYLE: Te black tie and internationally dressed crowd was dazzled from the moment they stepped into the stunning tent over the grounds of the parking lot. Its foor plan and design were built to incorporate the live trees underneath the tent’s foor. At precisely 8:00 P.M., the drapes at the back of the room opened so guests could take their seats in this part of the tent. It had been transformed into a majestic, gardenlike atmosphere that expertly mixed design with the naturally occurring trees.
Diners were then treated to an exquisite meal, courtesy of City Kitchen, while engaging in delightful conversation with their tablemates. Te evening was capped of with an after party where revelers returned to the front of the tent, where the dessert stations were located and flled with every treat imaginable, including bananas fambé, so patrons could satisfy their sweet tooth after the savory meal. After dessert, the action then moved to the dance foor, where the fun continued well into the evening, as guests danced the night away to the tunes of DJ Alx of Karma DJs.
THE PURPOSE: Te Tiger Ball 2024 was co-chaired by Chinhui and Eddie Allen, Heidi and David Gerger, with Sultana and Moez Mangalji and Sue and Randy Sim serving as honorary chairs. Also, in the program, Sabria and Kevin Lewis were honored for their longtime and tireless support of the organization. Te event raised over $1.5 million for Asia Society Texas, an educational institution that provides programs in the felds of arts, business culture, education, and policy to celebrate the vibrant diversity of Asia. Te 2025 Tiger Ball will be held on March 7, 2025. For more information, visit AsiaSociety.org/Texas.
Robert and Jaewon Gondo & Eunmi Yang and Young Ho Jung
Albert and Anne Chao
David and Heidi Gerger & Sabria and Kevin Lewis
Emily Hanley and Feifei Ma
Moez and Sultana Mangalji
Mohsin and Farhina Imtiaz
Peter and Teresa Chang & Kathy and Glen Gondo
Roberto and China Contreras
Laxmi Anirudh Sarwal and Temsiri Lao
Y. Ping Sun and David W. Leebron
A CRYSTAL MASTERPIECE
Dallas’s Crystal Charity Ball
Dazzles In Multimillion-Dollar
Soirée Benefting Children’s Organizations In North Texas
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Holt Haynsworth
THE SETTING: Te Hilton Anatole was the setting for one of the state’s most anticipated, elegant, and spectacular evening of fundraising for the 2023-2024 social season. Over 1,600 of the city’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists supported Te Crystal Charity Ball. Tis masterpiece of an event had an aptly titled theme, Masterpieces in the Making, in honor of children who are our future and for whom the organization works tirelessly to raise funds.
THE STYLE: Te high black tie crowd featured a dazzling mix of colorful ballgowns and classic formal attire that created a festive, playful, and welcoming environment in a nod to the children who will beneft from the generosity of the night’s attendees. Te evening, themed around art, began with a cocktail reception where, upon arrival, guests looked in awe at a breathtaking foral replica of Vincent van Gogh’s Te Starry Night. Many posed for photographs before this artistic masterpiece to commemorate the event. Tis was just one of many famous art pieces that had been re-interpreted for the evening, setting an elegant and creative tone.
During the cocktail hour, various entertainment options were ofered. Many guests were drawn to the pop-up casino, where they could be seen enjoying their favorite games of chance. Others perused an impressive lot of over 200 luxury items in an epic silent auction featuring fashion, fne jewelry, dining, beauty, and plenty of experiential items, including sports and travel packages. Te action then moved into the exquisitely decorated ballroom, which featured stunning arrays of white foral décor with pops of red, pink, blue, and purple. Guests then enjoyed an elegant, multi-course meal, during which attendees immersed themselves in the beauty of this masterpiece event. Te revelry was capped of with dancing, and the fun continued well into the night. So, it was the perfect exclamation point to end an epic night of fundraising for the North Texas community.
THE PURPOSE: Happily, 2023’s Crystal Charity Ball, chaired by Angie Kadesky, raised over $7 million for Te Crystal Charity Ball organization. For over 70 years, the nonproft has provided funds for projects that have positively impacted the lives of children in the North Texas region. Te Crystal Charity Ball 2024, chaired by Cheryl Joyner, will be held on December 7. For more information, visit CrystalCharityBall.org.
Cheryl Joyner, Courtney Joyner Gage and Richard Joyner
Aaron and Brooke Shelby & Lisa and Clay Cooley
Amy Hegi, Elizabeth Gambrell, Angie Kadesky, Mary Martha Pickens, Heather Esping and Jennifer Dix
Model as Te Woman in Gold by Gustav Klimt
Gage Prichard and Annette Simmons
Katherine and Austin Wyker
Kevin and Angie Kadesky
Robyn and Don Conlon
Susan and John Farris
Tifany and Paul Divis
UP, UP & AWAY
Up-Temed Gala Benefts Dell Children’s Medical Center To Raise Over $3 Million
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Matthew Hooker
THE SETTING: A picture-perfect evening at the Four Seasons in Austin was the setting for an incredible night of fundraising for an incredibly worthy cause. Over 400 of Capital City’s most notable sociables, philanthropists, and community leaders were on hand for the annual Dell Children’s Foundation Gala. Tis year’s theme, Up, certainly upped the ante for the Austin fundraising scene with a magical night those fortunate enough to be a part of will be talking about for years to come.
THE STYLE: Te black tie crowd began the festivities by posing for images to commemorate the evening against a stunning foral backdrop of thousands of fowers courtesy of the city’s celebrity forist, David Kurio. Guests then enjoyed the exterior terrace of the Four Seasons for a cocktail reception. Te action then moved to the Four Seasons Ballroom for the main program. Jaws dropped as the color palette of the orange foral backdrop, which guests viewed upon arrival, carried into the gala space, creating a grand, elegant, and sophisticated energy.
Ten, as revelers took their seats and dined on a multi-course meal, they were also treated to a touching musical performance by Velora Hall. Next, came an epic Fund-A-Need helmed by TK Kenney of Astounding Auctions. Paddles kept raising the tally going up, up, up to over $1 million, which was generously matched by an anonymous benefactor, resulting in $2 million raised for the organization from the Fund-A-Need alone. Te fun then moved to the onsite restaurant, Ciclo for a cotton candyinspired after party where guests danced the night away, celebrating another successful night for one of Texas’ most anticipated annual galas.
THE PURPOSE: Te event raised over $3 million for the Dell Children’s Foundation. Proceeds from the event allow the hospital to fulfll its mission to never turn away a child due to their inability to pay. With 70% of patients uninsured or underinsured, philanthropic funds are necessary to ensure this practice continues. Since its founding in 1996, the Foundation has raised over $250 million to provide children from any fnancial background access to world-class healthcare. Te 2025 Dell Children’s Ball will be held on February 1, 2025. For more information, visit SupportDellChildrens.org.
Armando Zambrano, Bobbi Topfer and David Kurio
Ashley and Xuan Yong
Dr. Charles D. Fraser, Jr. and Dr. Erin Gottlieb
Lindsay and Joe Warnock
Lutie Butler, Anna Morrison Lee
Nancy and Nyle Maxwell
Robin and Michael Wiggins
Laura and Todd Wallace & Katie and Miguel Romano
John Gilluly, Matt and Lina Flake & Debra Gilluly
Velora Hall performs
LEMON FRESH
Elizabeth Ann Seton Board’s La Dolce Vita Raises Funds For NICU Programs
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Ben Porter Photography
THE SETTING: First Texas Honda in Austin was the recent setting for one of the city’s most anticipated spring fundraising events. Over 650 of the city’s top medical leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Elizabeth Ann Seton Board La Dolce Vita gala. Te Italianthemed event required a last-minute venue change due to inclement weather conditions, yet became one of the most fun and successful EASB events in recent memory.
THE STYLE: Te chic cocktail-attired crowd didn’t let the rain dampen their event spirit, with patrons donning their favorite springy colors and foral prints that created a cheery environment for all who attended. Te night began with a cocktail reception where guests posed on a Vespa scooter abundantly draped with lemons, yellow fowers, and greenery. Te crowd then took their seats for the main program.
As guests dined on their meals, they were treated to words from the event’s leaders as well as emotional testimonials about how Seton’s NICU programs have positively impacted so many families in the region. Other program highlights included a golden ticket rafe, paddles up, and a spirited live auction that included a seven-day trip to Tuscany and a dove hunting trip to Argentina, among the most popular items. Te night was capped of with an after party where revelers cut the rug on the dance foor to the tunes of Te Blue Roses.
THE PURPOSE: La Dolce Vita, cochaired by Wesley Joseph and Meredith Spears, raised $1.34 million for Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin NICU programs. Proceeds raised from the event will specifcally beneft programs and services at the Marialice Shivers and Dell Children’s NICU at Te Kathryn Frances Walker Center for Neonatal Intensive Care and Family Support
Katie Crowley and Kelly Ferguson
Caroline Goehring, Lindsay Sims and Meredith Spears
Amanda Utter
Dale Craig and Avery Turman
John Kliewer and Caroline Smith
Larry and Kat Stokes
Callie and Tomas Hester
Nicolet and Barrett Morgan
Te Blue Roses perform
BUBBLES & BLOOMS
San Antonio Botanical Garden Celebrates Artist Hunt Slonem At Luncheon
ByLanceAveryMorgan | Photography by Hannah Bell Photography
THE SETTING: Over 400 guests attended the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s inaugural luncheon, with Bubbles & Blooms as the theme. Te attendees were greeted with refreshments to kick of the festivities and honor longtime Garden patron, Connie McCombs McNab. Adorned in foral print frocks and garden party attire, the attendees enjoyed the lush landscape of one of the city’s most pristine venues. Te guest speaker, Hunt Slonem, then took to the stage for an insightful interview with Dick Tips, which was a highlight of the luncheon.
THE STYLE: Huntopia, as the experience of Slonem’s art installation at the Garden is called, marks a pivotal moment in the artist’s storied, 50-plus-year career, translating his richly painted canvases into large outdoor sculptures in the natural world for the frst time. Te exhibition’s debut celebrates Slonem’s lifelong dream to create an immersive and grand outdoor sculpture experience, which was years in the making.
It’s the frst stop of the installations that are planned worldwide. In it, families and friends may step into a whimsical world flled with the iconic colorful bunnies, birds, and butterfies the artist has been painting for decades. Blume Floral Co. of Austin designed the foral décor.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, which raised over $400,000, was chaired by Claire McNab and Marie Mays, and benefted the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s children’s programming and operations. Its mission is to enrich lives through plants and nature by ofering over 600 programs and welcoming over 368,000 visitors annually. Te show runs through November 3rd, and plans are already being made for next year’s luncheon. For details, visit SABot.org.
Sage Blount, Marie Mays, Claire McNab and Sarah Geibel
Connie McNab, Hunt Slonem and Katherine Trumble
Dick Tips and Hunt Slonem
Madie Lee, Amy Hayes and Devon Kolomyjec
Cece Grifn, Adrianna Grossman, Emilie Petty, Ana Leah Montemayor, Marie Mays, Claire McNab, Alice Welder, Courtney Smith and Kourtney Little
Claire McNab and Marie Mays
Deborah Amini, Kristin Tips and Gloria Steves
You hold the keys – unlock the beauty and share the magic of the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Your support will unlock enchanting possibilities for everyone who walks through our Garden gates.
2024 Event Chairs
C AROLINA AND AJ L EWIS, IV
SALLIE AND J ONATHON SCHNEIDER
President and CEO
KATHERINE TRUMBLE
Scan the QR code to register for the 17th Annual Splendor in the Garden Gala
Houston Grand Opera’s Truly Shimmering Gala Shines In $1.3 Million Night
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Katy Anderson and Michelle Watson
THE SETTING: Te Wortham Center was the setting of a dazzling evening celebrating one of the nation’s most acclaimed artistic organizations. Over 450 art patrons, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Houston Grand Opera’s annual Opera Ball. Always one of the city’s most anticipated annual social events, this year’s theme, Mirror Ball, refected the arts of who Houston is as a dynamically diverse city. Te result took this storied event to a whole new level.
THE STYLE: Te black tie/white tie-attired crowd featured a mix of ballgowns, tuxedos, and tails that created an elegant vibe. From the moment guests ascended the steps to the second foor of Te Wortham Center, they knew they were in for a memorable evening. Richard Flowers of Te Events Company, designed and planned the event and transformed the venue into a mirrored wonderland, which featured towering silver drapes, tinseled chandeliers, and holographic tablescapes accented with fuchsia tableware.
As revelers took to their seats, they were treated to a performance of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s So Long Farewell, performed by the Von Trapp children for the Houston Grand Opera production of The Sound of Music. Attendees dined on their multicourse meals courtesy of Luis Roger and once dinner began to wind down, a giant disco ball lowered, and the energy level rose as the partygoers took to the dance foor. Te fun continued into the evening courtesy of the acclaimed band Universal Crush.
THE PURPOSE: Opera Ball 2024, cochaired by Isabel and Ignacio Torras, raised over $1.3 million for the Houston Grand Opera. Proceeds from the event will go towards educational and program initiatives to serve its mission of advancing operatic art to serve the Houston community. A world-renowned and critically acclaimed organization, the Houston Grand Opera is the only opera company to win a Tony®, Grammy®, and Emmy® Award. Opera Ball 2025 will be held on April 5, 2025. For more information, visit HoustonGrandOpera. org
Sarah and Bryant Lee
Alejandra and Hector Torres
Allyson Pritchett and Brian Dunham
Cheryl and Maxwell Ocansey
Isabel and Ignacio Torras
Jim and Dancie Ware & Tony and Cynthia Petrello
Marianne and Joe Geagea
Norma and Beto Cardenas
Elizabeth Colombowala and Isabel David
GREEN GODDESSES
Women’s Council Of Te Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden Hosts 36th Annual Luncheon
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Tomas Garza and Rob Wythe
THE SETTING: Te annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon Gardens of Greece welcomed a sold-out crowd benefting the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and A Woman’s Garden. Te event welcomed over 520 dedicated volunteers, supporters, sponsors, and underwriters to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
THE STYLE: Te legendary Jan Strimple was back to produce this year’s show with fashions from sponsor NorthPark Center. Te scene was full of enthusiastic attendees embracing the Gardens of Greece theme. Some ladies were draped in long white Grecian-inspired outfts and gold crowns in many forms, embellished with feathers, jeweled faux snakes, Olympic Games with fags, and Best Botanicals hats overfowing with fresh fowers.
Te Greek goddesses honored the sea by sporting sea shells, shimmering glass, and small boats. More interpretations included a real bundt cake celebrating My Big Fat Greek Wedding, a nod to Greek Life (Sororities), Greek Mythology (small statues and dry-ice clouds from Mt. Olympus), and My Greek College Life (plastic beer cups painted gold and glued with ping pong balls). Following the announcement of the hat winners, a delicious three-course luncheon was served in three diferent elegant settings, each one with tables draped in luscious white tablecloths adorned with blue foral prints, bold fuchsia napkins, and centerpieces of mixed forals, including roses, hydrangeas, calla lilies, and more.
THE PURPOSE: Chaired by Allison Brodnax with Honorary Chair Barbara Bigham and Women’s Council President Karen Sargent, the Mad Hatter’s Luncheon Gardens of Greece event welcomed a sold-out crowd, earning a net of $314,000 benefting the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and A Woman’s Garden.
Anne Stodghill and Kim Hext
Samantha Pate, Kelly Weisz, Candice Flores, Katie Kennemer, Piper Young, Marjan Wolford and Amber Nardo
Carole Ann Brown, Barbara Bigham and Venice Stuart
Claire Catrino and Linda Spina
Karen Schafer, Kristen Scott and Sarah Fletcher
Kunthear Mam Douglas and Regina Bruce Briana Pearson and Alison Broadnax
Karen Sargent and Reagan Pace
Terry Irby and Sharla Bush
EXOTIC WONDERLAND
Te 41st Annual Zoobilation Ball Celebrates With Dyanmic African-Temed Gala
ByLanceAveryMorgan | Photography by Lisa Preston
THE SETTING: In the heart of San Antonio, under the starlit sky, the 41st Annual Zoobilation Ball unfolded at the San Antonio Zoo. With Chairs Carolina and AJ Lewis IV and Co-chairs Ashley and Conner Quintanilla leading the evening’s eforts, the Out of Africa theme transported guests to a world of wild splendor. Tis magical evening wasn't just about glamour and revelry... it was a crucial pillar supporting the Zoo’s education and conservation eforts in Texas and all over the world. Tis overwhelming generosity from the community highlighted their unwavering dedication to conservation and education. Te Zoobilation Ball is an annual event that is a celebration of unity, purpose, and the shared commitment to supporting the Zoo’s vision to secure a future for wildlife.
THE STYLE: As the night unfolded, attendees were treated to a spectacular showcase of community spirit, entertainment, and conservation passion. Te program dazzled with its diverse oferings, including an engaging auction, a delightful cocktail hour, a sumptuous dinner, and a lively post-event celebration. Each cherished moment served as a reminder of the importance of supporting initiatives that safeguard our planet's precious biodiversity. Helping to make the visual elements of the evening so impactful, the RK Group, Rosemary’s Catering, and Illusions Rental & Designs used their talents to create a festive atmosphere for the gala.
THE PURPOSE: Te Zoobilation Ball, the primary annual fundraiser for the venue’s $35 million operating budget, pushed to new successes by raising over $2 million for the second year in a row. It symbolizes the collective efort of individuals coming together to make a tangible diference in the lives of animals and their environment. Trough the success of the 41st Zoobilation Ball, the San Antonio Zoo continues to stand as a beacon of hope and conservation excellence. Te venue’s impact extends far beyond its gates, inspiring generations to cultivate a deep-seated love and respect for wildlife.
Adrianna Grossman, Carolina Lewis and Jamie Kowalski
Becky and Greg Kowalski
Conner and Ashley Quintanilla & Carolina and AJ Lewis
Lauren Gray and Sallie Lewis Schneider
Celeste and Dean Leija
Te Ralston Family Foundation and Friends
Teresa Hildreth and John Nau, lll
Molly and Kacey Smart
Opera Glamour In San Antonio
OPERA San Antonio Celebrates Annual Opera Gala at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
On October 5, 2023, OPERA San Antonio celebrated its third gala at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. The event was a true triumph and started with a behind-the-scenes tour led by General and Artistic Director, E. Loren Meeker. Guests then were able to attend a wonderful pre-opera lecture by Professor Kevin Salfen and a cocktail party in the Founder’s Lounge. Attendees then entered the grand H-E-B Theater for a performance of the opera Hansel & Gretel. After the children successfully baked the witch, everyone moved to the Carlos Alvarez Theater for an elegant dinner. There were performances by the Children’s Choir of San Antonio and speeches by Meeker, Gala Chair Blair Labatt, and Board Chair Matthew West. The honoree of the evening was H-E-B, which was graciously represented by its CEO, Craig Boyan.
Excitement is building for the next opera gala, which will take place on October 3, 2024. The gala will succeed the first performance of the first opera of the season, the world-famous mariachi opera Cruzar la Cara de la Luna. Gala chairs Bekki and Greg Kowalski have a wonderful evening planned and the event will be in memory of Carlos Alvarez, a great patron of the arts. This will be a particularly special evening, a celebration of the opera’s tenth anniversary as a resident company of the Tobin
General and Artistic Director E. Loren Meeker introduces the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio
Grace Parazzoli, Annie Labatt & Blair and Barbara Labatt
Pagent Ferguson and Marguerite Ogata
Sarah Moore and Hannah Hudson
Mark Johnson, Craig Boyan and Blair Labatt
Drs. Sara McCamish and Edward Briggs
Maestro Francesco Milioto greets gathered guests
Dan and Ellie Morrison
Parker Hensley, Carolyn Johnson, Barbara Wood and Craig Dixon
Eric and Elizabeth Reblin & Alan and Meg Miller
PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES
Center for Child Protection’s Dancing With Te Stars Gala Dazzles
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Haley Plotkin and Tico Mendoza
THE SETTING: Always one of the most fun nights in Austin, this year’s Dancing With Te Stars did not disappoint. Presented by Mercedes Benz of Austin, the Center for Child Protection's event drew over 1,100 of the city’s most notable sociables, community leaders, and philanthropists who turned out for a night of dazzling dance routines and heartfelt tributes.
THE STYLE: From the moment guests ascended the escalators to the ballroom foyer of the JW Marriott, they knew they were in for an extraordinary evening. Te festivities began with what is always one of the most fun cocktail hours in town where friends, supporters, and guests of the dancers got to mingle with one another…and, for a brief period, the dancers themselves. As is a tradition with the event, dancers are easy to spot in the sea of black tie since they wore robes covering their dazzling dance ensembles before performing on stage. Te festivities then moved into the ballroom of the JW for the main program. As guests dined on a multi-course meal, they were treated to emotional testimonials and stories of how much the Center for Child Protection positively impacts the community.
Next came a spirited live auction and Fund-A-Need, where paddles were raised for a series of luxe experiences and to support various initiatives at the organization. Ten came the main event... the dancing routines themselves. Te dancers, who had spent several months training for their big night, cut their moves on the dance foor, captivating and keeping the crowd on their feet. Upon the conclusion of each performance, judges f Jumonville, Gary Little, and Becca Tobin kept the guests engaged with witty and positive commentary of the routines. After the production, attendees voted for their favorite dancers. Tis year, the coveted Mirror Ball trophy was awarded to one lucky duo, contestant Liza Edebor and professional dancer Ferenc Kiss.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Betsy Hudson and Stephanie O’Neill, raised over $2.8 million for the Center for Child Protection. Proceeds raised went toward providing forensic interviews, medical exams, counseling, and intervention programs to children who have experienced or witnessed abuse, as well as their caregivers. Te 2024 Dancing with the Stars Austin Gala will be held on December 7, 2024. For more information, visit CenterForChildProtection.org.
Anna and Will Hardeman
17th Annual Dancing with the Stars Austin Cast
Britney Watson and Patrick Darby
Crystal King, Christine and Michael Torres & Stephanie and Todd O'Neill
Frank and Nina Seely
Mary Anne Alberry, Bridget Ramey and Mary Anne Mahon
Nasreen Shahi and Eric Young
Presli James, Kim James, Sydney James and Cori James
Gerri Skutta, Amy Beard, Lyn Vogt and Michelle Atkins
Shonnery Pettit, Betsy Hudson & Venus and Bill Strawn
DINNER AL FRESCO
Te Contemporary Austin Hosts Annual Art Dinner At Stunning Laguna Gloria
THE SETTING: Laguna Gloria’s beautiful grounds set the stage for one of the city’s most anticipated events of the year. To celebrate the arts, over 350 of the region’s top patrons, sociables, artists, and philanthropists turned out for Te Contemporary Austin’s annual Art Dinner. Te evening featured great food, interesting conversations, and thoughtprovoking art.
THE STYLE: Te Gussied-Up Garden Chic-themed attire brought a fun, artful mix of ensembles. Patrons donned bright colors, foral prints, and pastels providing a colorful tapestry that created a warm, welcoming environment for all. Te night began with a cocktail reception where guests sipped their favorite spirits, caught up with friends, and ventured into the Driscoll Villa to peruse the impressive live and silent auction lots available for purchase.
Te action then moved to the lower grounds of Laguna Gloria for dinner and the main program. Guests were dazzled by the beautifully constructed tent, surrounded by lush greenery and lakeside views, for which the city is well known. While attendees dined on their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders, including Te Contemporary's Executive Director and CEO sharon maidenberg. Te evening was capped of with a spirited live auction. It featured works by acclaimed artists, including Te Haas Brothers, Arturo Herrera, and Barbara Kasten. For the third year in a row, artists participating in the auction receive up to 50% of the proceeds from their artwork sale, demonstrating Te Contemporary’s ongoing commitment to supporting working artists.
THE PURPOSE: Te Contemporary Austin’s Art Dinner 2023, co-chaired by Jeanne Klein, Danielle Nieciag, and Teresa Windham, was a resounding success, raising over $1 million. Proceeds raised at Art Dinner benefted Te Contemporary Austin's dynamic exhibitions, community programming, and arts education initiatives rooted at Laguna Gloria. Te Contemporary Austin will host Art Dinner 2024 on October 25. For more information, visit TeContemporaryAustin.org.
Teresa Windham, Jeanne Klein and Danielle Nieciag
Brian Sharples and Clayton Aynesworth
Elizabeth Rogers and Carrie Hicks
Erica McCarley, Janice Omadeke, and Kathleen Loughlin
Marcus Hersh, Sari Warenof and Kumara Wilcoxon
Melissa and Matthew Diehl Ryann and Jorge Rangel
Karen Hawkins, Meg Clark and Val Armstrong
Meena Vendal and Latifa Alajlan
Suysel Cunningham, Anne Maxwell Foster, sharon maidenberg and Kristin Gish
DALLAS
ABSOLUTELY CULINARY
Dallas Hosts 14th Annual Symphony Of Chefs Benefting KidLinks
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Danny Campbell
THE SETTING: Te much-anticipated 14th Annual Symphony of Chefs was held at the Armstrong Fieldhouse at SMU. Te evening kicked of with Te Rayleigh Underground providing delicious hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail hour. Te reception was followed by a seated dinner where over 20 of Dallas’ most notable chefs prepared guests a unique four-course dinner tableside along with wine pairings from some of the world’s best vineyards.
THE STYLE: WFAA Anchor Rebecca Lopez served as the evening’s emcee and introduced Bob Enriquez, who shared how music therapy sessions provided by KidLinks had positively impacted his great-grandson who was born with Myotonic Dystrophy, a condition that afects the facial muscles making it difcult to form and pronounce words. Consequently, the child had been essentially non-verbal. anks to KidLinks, 8-year-old Lucas is now speaking in complete sentences, and his family has hope for continued development. Hamilton A. Sneed of HAS Events was the visionary behind this culinary concept and DJ Stef Burns spun tunes as guests entered through draped curtains, revealing tables placed throughout SMU’s practice course, setting the scene for a lively evening of culinary composition.
THE PURPOSE: Event Chairs Beanie and Martin Newman, along with Honorary Chef Chairs Justin Box, Private Chef, Consultant, and Restaurateur, and Luke Rogers, Executive Chef and Owner of Beckley 1115, were the driving forces behind this year’s ultimate chefdriven culinary dinner experience ting KidLinks. Te organization is a 501(c)(3) nonproft organization that provides healing, hope, and happiness for children and families through therapeutic music entertainment, music therapy programs, and other resources. For over three decades, impacting more than 385,000 children and caregivers, KidLinks has provided healing experiences for children with special needs through performing arts and media, therapeutic music initiatives, university-level music therapy training, and free/low-cost treatment programs.
Beanie Newman, Rebecca Lopez and Martin Newman
Eric and Sonya McHenry
Henry Johnson
Justin Box and Luke Rogers
Jill Bates
Daniel Soriano and Luca Corazzina
Michael Matis, Brandon Williams and guests
Arleen and Trey Tigpin
Elbert Choi, Christie Choi, Leigh Trevino, Carlos Trevino
Participating Chefs in 2024 Symphony of Chefs
IT’S
BECOMING CRYSTAL CLEAR
Austin Debutantes Presented At Helping Hand Home Gala
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Jetter Photography
THE SETTING: Te Palmer Events Center in Austin was the recent setting for the 81st annual Helping Hand Home Crystal Ball. As the Capital City’s most widely attended gala each year, the event drew over 2,000 guests of all ages for a night of fun and philanthropy that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE STYLE: Te black tie crowd featured women wearing chic ballgowns of all colors, with men sporting a fun mix of tuxedos, which perfectly complemented the approximately three dozen debutantes donning their white ensembles. Te festivities began with a cocktail reception where partygoers mingled while sipping on their favorite spirits and fnding their favorite item to bid on at the silent auction that ofered an impressive mix of bespoke experiences and luxury items.
Revelers then took to their seats for the presentation ball. Around the room, many tables of multi-generational family members were visible, adding a sense of warmth throughout the room. KXAN Meteorologist Jim Spencer served as emcee, keeping the festivities fowing at a brisk, fun pace. As guests dined on their meals, they were treated to the presentation ball, where each deb walked down the runway with their escorts. Ten, the action moved to the dance foor for the after party.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Jennifer Ramberg and Kerianne Oliver, raised $2.76 million for Helping Hand Home. Since its founding in 1893, Helping Hand Home has provided a safe haven for children healing from neglect, abandonment, and abuse. Proceeds from the event will go towards funding the organization’s services, including therapeutic residential treatment, foster care programs, and family support initiatives. Te 2025 Helping Hand Home Crystal Ball will be held on March 1, 2025. For more information, please visit HelpingHandHome.org.
Bryan and Beth Plater
Christy Merritt, Kelley Mucci, Julie Ballard, Anne Keene and Lucy Weber
Cullen Childress, Janice Davis and Chase Belew
Geof and Betsy Hicks Guy and Kerianne Oliver
Justin and Wendy Harvey & Shannon and Robert Ring
Kristin and Allen Cowden
Tifany Franics, Dan Foster & Cari and Monte Ezell
Todd and Jennifer Ramberg
Clary Auler and Susan Auler
HOLLYWOOD FLAIR R.S.V.P. DALLAS
Rita Wilson Speaks At 18th Annual Event Tat Benefts Community Partners Of Dallas
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Kelly Alexander, Tamytha Cameron, Celeste Cass and Nate Rehlander
THE SETTING: Community Partners of Dallas (CPD) hosted its 18th annual Chick Lit Luncheon, presented by Dr. Robert and Lara Tafel at the Hilton Anatole. Luncheon Co-chairs Cathy James and Lisa Ogle, with Honorary Chair Christine McKenny, were joined by over a thousand attendees at the annual event, featuring a conversation with NBC5’s Laura Harris and actress, singer/songwriter, and producer Rita Wilson.
THE STYLE: Upon arrival at the venue Chick Lit devotees mingled and sipped wine at the pre-luncheon reception in the Trinity Ballroom foyer. Nearby, in the Wedgwood Ballroom, top sponsors gathered for champagne, a meet and greet, and a photo opportunity with Wilson.
Te co-chairs took the stage to welcome guests to this year’s event. Tey also shared that this year’s luncheon had set a new record for sponsorships in the event’s 18-year history. DJ Lucy Wrubel provided a cool vibe during the opening reception and throughout the luncheon. President and CEO Joanna Clarke recognized the 2024 Paige McDaniel Partners for Children Award recipient, Capital for Kids, with its founders Dawn Blankenship, Eliot Rafkind, and Reid Walker accepting the award. It was then time for the inimitable Rita Wilson and NBC5’s Laura Harris to settle in for an entertaining and engaging chat. Wilson covered topics about her Greek and Bulgarian heritage, how she began her music career, her album featuring duets with other artists...and her very frst acting role on Te Brady Bunch.
THE PURPOSE: Since 1989, Community Partners of Dallas has ensured safety and restored dignity and hope to abused and neglected children by providing crucial resources and support to the caseworkers of Dallas County Child Protective Services. Community Partners of Dallas provides items such as winter coats, diapers and formula, holiday gifts, school uniforms, personal hygiene products, food, and more to send the abused children in our community the message that someone does care. Te 2025 Community Partners of Dallas Chick Lit Luncheon will be held on March 28, 2025. For more information, visit CPDTx.org.
Christine McKenny and Joanna Clarke
Cathy James, Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson and Lisa Ogle
Dawn Greiner and Terra Najork Peterson
Heather Hicks, Lauren Hicks and Eugenia King
Laura Harris and Rita Wilson
Lindsay McMahan and Stephanie Dedman Sally Dutter and Lacie Crow
D'Andra Simmons and Dee Simmons
Kara Hargrove, Melissa Fisher and Sandy Watson
Jennifer Swift, Tef y Jacobs and Amanda Ward
INDEPENDENT SPIRIT
Texas State History Museum Foundation Hosts Annual Texas Independence Day Dinner At Te Bullock Museum
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Chris Caselli and Tao Nguyen
THE SETTING: Te Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin was the setting for a milestone annual event that has honored United States Presidents, sports legends, scientists, and many more. Over 350 of the state’s top community leaders, history lovers, sociables, and philanthropists gathered for the 20th annual Texas Independence Day Dinner hosted by the Texas State History Museum Foundation.
THE STYLE: Te black tie crowd began the evening by posing for images on the red carpet in front of the iconic Texas star outside of the Bullock. Once inside, partygoers ascended the atrium staircase to the mezzanine level for a cocktail reception where guests were able to mingle, make new friends, and pose for photos with the honorees: former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and former President of UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dr. Kern Wildenthal.
Revelers then took their seats inside the Museum’s rotunda, which was transformed into an elegant pallet of red, orange, and pink fowers that complemented the gray tablescape for the main program. As guests dined on their delicious multi-course meals courtesy of Te Four Seasons, they were treated to words from event leaders and moving speeches by Gonzales and Wildenthal, capping of a dazzling evening of fun and philanthropy.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Pam and Richard Leshin of Corpus Christi, raised over $850,000 for the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Proceeds from the event will help fund educational programs and special projects at the museum. Since 2001, over 9.3 million visitors, including 1.2 million children on school trips, have experienced the museum’s Awardwinning exhibitions and programs. Te 2025 Texas Independence Day Dinner will be held on March 12, 2025. For more information, visit TSHMF.org
Lisa Cooley and Julie Oles
Deanna Rodriguez and Eric Matthews
Demetrius McDaniel, Jan Bullock and Juan Hinojosa
Jane and John Barnhill
Jere and Carolyn Tompson
Joe Straus, Dya Campos and Heidi Anderson
Kern and Marnie Wildenthal & Rebecca and Alberto Gonzales
Margaret Perkins, Leigh Ann and Jef Bonham & Laura and Bob Barnes
Rose and Mitchel Wong
Clayton and Paige Shafer
Tim and Carol Crowley & Sylvia and Hon. John Zerwas
READING IS SO VERY FUNDAMENTAL
30th Annual A Celebration Of Reading Raises $2.2 Million Honoring Former First Lady Barbara Bush
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Priscilla Dickson, Jacob Power and Michelle Watson
THE SETTING: Te Hobby Center for the Performing Arts was the recent setting for one of the city’s most beloved and best-attended annual social events. Over 1,200 business leaders, book lovers, sociables, and philanthropists arrived for the 30th annual A Celebration of Reading benefting two foundations named in honor of Barbara Bush. Te 2024 event was even more special with it being the 100th anniversary of the birth of Former President George H.W. Bush.
THE STYLE: Te cocktail-attired crowd began the evening mingling in the foyer of the Hobby Center, where guests had the opportunity to meet the featured authors ahead of the evening program. Patrons then took to their seats in the venue’s theatre, where they were treated to a living room set on the stage. During the program, literary lovers heard readings from top authors, including Jean Becker, Brad Taylor, and Chris Bohjalian.
Te program closed with a 20-minute set by author and comic Gary Gulman. After which, revelers enjoyed a multi-course meal courtesy of City Kitchen Catering set against stunning spring hydrangea and tulip tablescapes courtesy of HEB. All of this capped of a perfect evening of great literature, fantastic food, and excellent company.
THE PURPOSE: A Celebration of Reading, chaired by Neil Bush with Doro Bush Koch serving as honorary chair, raised $2.2 million for the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and the Barbara Bush Foundation For Family Literacy. Proceeds from the event will beneft educational initiatives and programs at both foundations on a national and local level in Houston.
Pierce Bush & Maria and Neil Bush
David and Pat Jones & Betty and John Hrncir
Emily George, Colette Taylor, Allison Schulze, and Lisa Jakel
Jean Becker
Joe and Cathy Cleary
Lauren Bush Lauren
Mark and Laurie Lasher
Patricia and Sig Cornelius
Delores and John Tobola
Greg and Terri Ebel & Julie and Ron Finck
Brad Taylor
A MILLION PURPOSES
HeartGift’s Party With A Purpose Gala Raises Over $1 Million
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
THE SETTING: Te JW Marriott was the setting of one of the city’s most anticipated spring fundraising events. Several hundred top medical leaders, children’s advocates, and philanthropists turned out for HeartGift’s annual Party with a Purpose gala. Tis year’s theme, Giving the Gift of Childhood, brought out playful fun for everyone, with the spirit of the evening culminating in the smashing of the events’ fundraising records.
THE STYLE: Te “cowboy-chic” crowd featured a mix of ballgowns, cocktail attire, and other denim ensembles accentuated with sequins, all complemented by Stetsons, of course. Te festivities began with a VIP reception and cocktail hour where guests sipped on their favorite spirits, mingled, and perused tables flled with toys and candy to take home as keepsakes in keeping with the theme. Te action then moved to the ballroom for the main program. As guests dined on their delectable multicourse meals, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders on the impact HeartGift has had on children worldwide. Next, the organization honored longtime HeartGift supporters Kerry and Joe Mims, Sheri and Bob Myer, and Oscar Torres. After a live auction by Heath Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer, the festivities were capped of with a concert by country music superstar and Waco native Wade Bowen, who brought the crowd to their feet, singing along to his hit tunes.
THE PURPOSE: HeartGift’s Party with a Purpose raised over $1 million for the organization. Proceeds from the event will beneft HeartGift’s programs and services aimed towards helping children born with congenital heart defects. To date, the organization’s programs have saved the lives of over 1,000 children with congenital heart defects worldwide. Te 2025 HeartGift Gala, celebrating its silver anniversary, will be held on April 12, 2025. For more information, visit HeartGift.org.
R.S.V.P. AUSTIN
Christy and Casey Moore, Oscar Torres, Bob and Sheri Myer & Joe and Kerry Mims
Allison and Reese Ryan
Angela Schmidt and Mike Coopwood
Avery and Jessica Taylor, Kimberly and Kent Coopwood, Wade Bowen & Crystal and Doug Brock
Bob and Lucynda Herrin, Gillette Burns, Tish Asuerhof and Sharon Dobbs
Brad and Kristy Knippa & Jennifer and John Harper
Jennifer Garaghty and Marc Zimmerman
Karen and Ray Wilkerson
Stephen Garrison, Maryann Bell, Sarah Garrison and Paul Bell
Travion Dickson and Jakeista Wakefeld
DALLAS
APPLAUSE , APPLAUSE
AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Bravo! On Stage Gala Honors Te Moody Foundation
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography Courtesy of AT&T Performing Arts Center
THE SETTING: Dallas’ Winspear Opera House was the recent backdrop for an enchanting evening of fundraising. Over 250 of the city’s most notable sociables, community leaders, and art patrons were on hand for the annual Bravo! On Stage gala. Benefting the AT&T Performing Arts Center, the night featured dazzling performances and an epic dinner onstage at one of the world's premier performing arts venues.
THE STYLE: Te black tie-attired crowd felt the excitement in the air from the moment they entered the Winspear Opera House foyer for a lively cocktail reception. As patrons sipped on their favorite spirits and mingled with other guests, they were treated to live performances from all fve of the AT&T Performing Arts Center’s resident theatre companies. Making the experience even more special was each of the companies performed in a unique space throughout the two-story Winspear Lobby, which gave each performance an intimately theatrical feel. Te festivities then proceeded to the main stage at the Winspear for the main program.
Jaws dropped as revelers were enchanted by a magical onstage dinner scene where they dined on a multi-course meal. Tey were then treated to a fun program that included words from the organization’s leaders. Te Moody Foundation was honored for its extensive and continued support of the opera. Mixed in with the tributes and testimonials were performances that took advantage of the world-class acoustics at the Winspear, including an exceptional performance by the Lake Street Dive Band. Te result was a night where attendees were frequently brought to their feet, and their souls were warmed by performances they will not soon forget.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Diane Brierley and Ellen Winspear, raised over $437,000 for the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Proceeds raised from the event will be directed toward educational and community engagement initiatives in North Texas bringing the power of the arts to more residents in the region.
Zachary Willis performs
Cherisse Williams performs
Diane and Hal Brierley & Ellen Winspear
Lake Street Dive Band performs
Pat and Charles McEvoy
Warren and Alexine Tranquada
Maria May and Chris Heinbaugh Liz Mikel and Kevin Moriarity
SARAH PALMER
sarahpalmerstudios.com
ALL THE WORLD’S A STAGE
Stages Houston Gala At Te Gordy Fête Has $1.2 Million Night
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Priscilla Dickson and Jacob Power
THE SETTING: Te Gordy in Houston was the recent setting for a recordbreaking night that fêted one of Houston’s most beloved creative arts visionaries. Several hundred of the city’s most beloved sociables, philanthropists, and arts patrons turned out for Stages Houston’s Gala at the Gordy. It was a fond farewell for Artistic Director Kenn McLaughlin, who recently retired after 23 years at the organization.
THE STYLE: Te black tie and fuchsia fair-clad crowd brought fashionable fun by featuring a mix of classic formal wear while others made bold color statements. Upon arrival, patrons walked the pink carpet to pose for photos in front of the foral step and repeat to commemorate the evening. Next, guests cozied up to the bar for their spirit of choice during the cocktail hour while perusing the impressive lot of silent auction items that included an exclusive Paris package.
Te festivities then moved inside the theater for a performance and tribute to Kenn McLaughlin. Patrons were treated to a series of dazzling performances with numbers from classic works that McLaughlin has directed over the years, including Grey Gardens, Godspell, and Sundays in the Park with George, to name a few. Next, revelers gathered in the tent on the venue’s grounds for an elegant threecourse seated dinner where Jackson & Company transformed the tent into a dazzling spring palette of white and fuchsia foral décor. Te evening was capped of with DJ Mohawk’s tunes.
THE PURPOSE: Gala at the Gordy was co-chaired by George C. Lancaster, Kay Bruce, Judy and Jim Nickols, and Cabrina and Steven Owsley. Sally and Phillip Edmundson, Glenda and Russell Gordy, and John Trash and Becca Cason Trash served as honorary chairs. Te event raised a record-breaking $1.2 million for Stages Houston. Proceeds raised from the event will beneft Stages and its ongoing impact on the Houston arts community.
Libby Cagle Taft, Kenn McLaughlin, Lucas Somoza & Becca Cason Trash and John Trash
Alicia and Garrett Gordy
Brandon Wilburn and Briana Conner
Christopher Mitchell, Myrtle Jones & Glenda and Russell Gordy
Dana Wolf Pauly, Erika Mandel, Stacy Soefer Gomar, Julie Atlas Taylor and Nicole Sofer Loewenstern
Daryl Bristow and Janet Gurwitch Bristow
Gail Rubin, Patsy Fourticq, Tye Taft and Lauren Taft
Kenn McLaughlin and George C. Lancaster
Steven and Cabrina Owsley, David Schmitz, Judy Nickols and Jim Nicklos
Sally and Philip Edmundson
GLOW AND THE CITY
Downtown's Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s Glow In Te Park Shines Bright
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Tyler Schmitt of Mill
Photography Studio
THE SETTING: Te Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park in Austin was the setting for one of Austin’s top fall galas. Te third annual Waterloo Greenway Conservancy Glow in the Park gala attracted nearly a thousand community leaders, music lovers, sociables, and philanthropists for a night of epic fun and fundraising.
THE STYLE: Te “tennis shoe glam” attire invited patrons to don their favorite cocktail attire, mixed with tennis shoes, to allow guests to explore Waterloo’s world-class grounds with comfort and style. Te festivities began at the Waterloo Park Pavilion with a cocktail reception where guests sipped on their favorite spirits and brimmed with anticipation for the night ahead. Revelers then made their way down to the lawn of the Moody Amphitheater for a main program al fresco. As partygoers dined on a familystyle menu from MML Hospitality, they were treated to words by the event’s leaders and touching tributes about how the park has positively impacted the city. Te night continued with a spirited live auction and was capped of with a performance by the platinum-selling band, Te Revivalists.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Maile Roberts-Loring and Daisy Cho, raised funds for Waterloo Greenway Conservancy. Proceeds from the event will provide free community events and educational initiatives at Waterloo Park. Te 2025 Glow in the Park event will be held on October 10, 2025, and co-chaired by Gary Farmer and Katherine FarmerTornhill. For more information, visit WaterlooGreenway.org.
Ryan Lang, Rob Gandy, Jevin Sackett and John Seni
Katie Blaha and Julie Jumonville
Kellie Weir, Sarah Teten, Marsha Dyson and Paige Madden
Lindsay Faeder, Kristen Barker, Samantha Borders, Taylor Bose and Maile Floyd
Maile Roberts Loring, Daisy Cho and Caroline Haley
Shuronda Robinson and Meme Styles
Te Revivalists perform
Victor and Erica Saenz,
Katherine Farmer Tornhill and Gary Farmer
GOOD MORNING, MILESTONES
The Junior League Of Dallas Milestones Luncheon Features Conversation With Good Morning America Anchor Robin Roberts
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass
THE SETTING: Te Omni Hotel was the setting for a gathering of fundraising for one of Dallas’ most anticipated annual luncheons. Hundreds of the area’s top business leaders, community advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the annual Junior League of Dallas Milestones Luncheon featuring Good Morning America Anchor Robin Roberts.
THE STYLE: Te luncheon-chic crowd began the event with a VIP reception in the Katy Trail Room, where guests had the opportunity to meet Roberts and mingle with friends. During the pre-event reception, attendees purchased rafe tickets for four luxe items, including a Wine Tasting for ten people at the private wine club, 55 Seventy. As guests took their seats in the ballroom, they began dining on their delicious meal where emcee WFAA Anchor Cynthia Izaguirre kept the festivities moving at a fun, brisk pace.
Patrons were then treated to words from the event’s leaders. Next, the organization presented its Sustainer of the Year Award to Kathleen Gibson, which included a touching tribute video showcasing her tireless support for the Junior League. Te afternoon was capped of with a conversation between Izaguirre and Roberts, who talked about the importance of patience and persistence, themes of Roberts’ three best-selling books.
THE PURPOSE: Te event raised funds for the Junior League of Dallas. Since its founding in 1922, it has become one of the largest Junior League chapters in the world. Each year, the organization provides leadership opportunities to 4,000 women between the ages of 25 and 49 and provides approximately 100,000 hours of volunteer service to the North Texas community. Te 2025 Milestones Luncheon will be held on April 11, 2025. For more information, visit JLDallas.org.
Catalina Maria Gonzalez Franco, Sally Pretorius Hodge and Jess Bass Bolander
Beth Toele, Louise Grifeth, Debbie Oates and Leslie Diers
Cynthia Izaguirre and Robin Roberts
Glenda Tomb, Tandra Allen and Lauren Combest
Heather McNamara and Elizabeth Dacus
Kim Cox, Breanna Turnley and Toni Patterson
Natalie Rogers and Jennifer Grinkle
Jan Baldwin and Carrie Hill
Rev. Linda Roby, Gay Solomon and Kathleen Gibson
Karen Shuford, Patti Flowers and Anne Reeder Corley
COWBOYS ON THE COAST
Te Bryan Museum Dazzles
With Coastal CowboysTemed Gala
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Dave Rossman
THE SETTING: Te Bryan Museum in Galveston was the setting of one of the most signifcant events of the city’s social season. Over 400 of the area’s most notable business leaders, sociables, and philanthropists descended upon the museum for the annual Bryan Museum gala. Tis year’s theme, Coastal Cowboys, brought the fun in a big way, featuring great company, fantastic food, and show-stopping musical performances.
THE STYLE: Te “formal Western wear” attire brought a mix of cowboy hats with ballgowns and tuxedos, creating a uniquely elegant, yet fun vibe that created a festive environment for all who attended. Te night began with an exclusive pre-party inside the museum where guests cozied up to the bar to grab the evening’s signature cocktail, Te Brush Fire, and mingled with friends old and new. During the pre-party, guests also perused the impressive silent auction while melodies from Libby Koch provided an additional level of cowboy elegance.
Te festivities then moved to a tent on the Bryan Museum grounds for the main program. As partygoers dined on a delectable multi-course meal, they were treated to words from event and museum leaders. Next, Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame member Gerald Sullivan was honored with the annual Bull ‘N Buck award for his history-changing achievements during his career in the American West. A spirited live auction followed, with many luxe items, including a trip to Montana along the Yellowstone River. Te night was capped of with dancing, where revelers cut a rug to the tunes of Roger Creager.
THE PURPOSE: Te Bryan Museum Coastal Cowboys Gala, chaired by Kelly Sullivan Georgiades and George Georgiades, raised over $900,000 for the Museum. Te proceeds will go toward the museum’s education and outreach programs in the Galveston area and around Texas.
Alicia Bryan
George Georgiades and Kelley Sullivan Georgiades
D'Lisa and John Johnston
Johnny and Sydney Sullivan
Michelle Jefery and Kimberly Duf y
Robert Clay & Colleen and Phillip Smith
Roger and Fatima Camp & Cassie and Wesley Sinor
Greg McEldowney and Joanie McLeod
Mary Jon and J.P. Bryan & Susanne and Gerald Sullivan
Todd and Sarah Sullivan
ABUNDANCE OF KINDNESS
Te Kindness Campaign Hosts A Dazzling Art of Kindness Gala
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Ben Porter Photography
THE SETTING: Te Line Hotel was recently the setting for an epic evening of fun and fundraising. A sold-out crowd featuring 300 of the city’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for one of the city’s most anticipated spring galas, the Art of Kindness.
THE STYLE: Te crowd brought their fnest shades of azure ensembles, including gowns, cocktail dresses, suits, jeans, and sportscoats, which created a soothing environment for all who attended. Te action began with a VIP party where guests mingled while enjoying several experiential activations, including a champagne rafe sponsored by Korman Fine Jewelry and a money machine game where attendees had the opportunity to win a Hermès Birkin Bag.
Te action then moved to the ballroom for the main program, which continued the blue theme and tied all the festivities of the evening together. As guests dined on multi-course meals, they were treated to words from the event’s leaders. Next came a spirited live auction featuring an array of luxe items, including an African Safari, a fashion experience with Jonathan Simkhai, and a Top Chef experience with Chef Paul Qui, being among the most popular. Te evening culminated with a trio of fabulous musical performances by Olivia Van Der Beek, Welsh Wolf, and THEBROSFRESH, which capped of a dazzling night.
THE PURPOSE: Te Art of Kindness gala, co-chaired by Lisa Jauregui and Susan Tomsen, raised over $600,000 for Te Kindness Campaign. Since its founding by philanthropist Andra Liemandt in 2015, the organization has provided socialemotional learning programs to schoolaged children and focuses on four pillars: experiences, curriculum, development, and fun and games. Te 2024 Art of Kindness Gala will be held on April 10, 2025. For more information, visit TKCKindness.org.
Jonathan Simkhai, Adria Sheth and Andra Liemandt
Heidi Marquez Smith and Amber Allen
Kedrick Jefries and Stacy Rahmaan
Lisa Jauregui
Melissa Reidhead, Lauren Goldstein, Haley Rubin and Cecily Tomas
Jules Webber and Nathan Ryan
Te Bros Fresh perform
Erin Driscoll, Kelly Green, Jenny Mason and Amber Koehler
Susan Tomsen
CALLING ALL HEARTS
40th Annual St. Valentine’s Day Event For Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Tamytha Cameron
THE SETTING: Te 2024 St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show: Love Rises with Co-chairs Brooke Shelby and Samantha Wortley and Honorary Chairs Debbie Hayhurst, Libby Hunt, and Sharon McCullough, were joined by more than 600 attendees at the St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show benefting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at Dallas’ Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
THE STYLE: Upon arrival, attendees, in their Valentine’s Day-inspired attire in shades of pink, purple, and red, enjoyed a champagne reception followed by the program inside the Margaret McDermott Performance Hall. Tis year’s awards honored the Luncheon Co-founders Rusty Duvall and Janet Evans, as well as the following individuals: Janet Evans received the ICON Award; the late Ryan Anthony received the Memorial Hero Award; Moll Anderson received the Lynda Adleta Heart of Gold Award; and Campbell Fearing received the Spirit of Tom Landry Award. Te highlight was a fashion show produced by Jan Strimple, featuring the season’s latest looks from Highland Park Village retailers.
THE PURPOSE: Te 40th anniversary luncheon raised $750,000. Te Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is a global leader in the fght against cancer. Te LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Te St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon has raised over $15 million in its 40-year history. Te 2025 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s 41st Annual Valentine’s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show will be held on February 12, 2025. For more information, visit LLS.org.
Brooke Garner, Jada Mowles and Erica Brown
Jessica Dale, Brittany Smalley, Lara Francis and Whitney Wedgeworth
Kate Leyendecker, Victoria Snee and Caroline Ross
Lane Ray, Cathleen Grifth and Madelaine Lam
Samantha Wortley and Brooke Shelby
Vicki Howland and Elisa Summers
Debbie Hayhurst, Sharon McCullough and Libby Hunt
Tifany Divis, Sunie Solomon, Katy Bock and Shannon Graham
Brandi Chalmers, Kelli Little and Lizzy Brauer
DISCO’S INFERNO
Children’s Museum
Houston
Hosts Sleek Studio 54 Gala
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Priscilla Dickson, Jacob Power and Michelle Watson
THE SETTING: Te Corinthian in Houston was the setting for one of the city’s most anticipated annual fall galas. Over 600 of the area’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 31st annual Children’s Museum Houston’s gala. Te Studio 54 theme took this always-fun event to the next level with dazzling fashion, touching tributes, and seven-fgure fundraising.
THE STYLE: Te Black Tie At Te Discothemed attire brought a mix of sequins and rufed shirts with more traditional black tie fare. Patrons felt the night’s high energy from the moment they ascended the red-carpet staircase to the upper level for the VIP cocktail reception. As guests sipped on their favorite spirits, they mingled and perused one of Texas’ best silent auctions, which featured a litany of luxury experience packages.
Guests then gathered for the program on the main foor, which captivated the crowd with sky-high sequin drapes placed strategically by the legendary Corinthian Columns that perfectly paid homage to the legendary New York club. As revelers dined on multi-course meals courtesy of Jackson & Company, they were treated to words from event leaders and a spirited live auction. Te night was capped of with an epic after party where partygoers spotted Liza Minelli and Andy Warhol impersonators on the dance f as they cut a rug to the tunes of Drywater Band.
THE PURPOSE: Te gala, co-chaired by Katie and Scott Arnoldy and Holly and Steve Radom, raised $1.1 million for Children’s Museum Houston. Proceeds from the event will beneft museum programs and education initiatives. 2024 gala, Te Noir Ball, will be held on October 26, 2024. For more information, visit CMHouston.org.events.
Antoinette and Julian Duncan
Lane and Chita Craft
Liza Minnelli and Andy Warhol impersonators
Mari Trevino Glass, Lexi Marek, Brittany Sakowitz Kushner, and Amber Elliott
Ryan and Whitney Burns
Daniel Arnoldy and Scott Arnoldy
Jonathan and Ashley Sloan
Katie Arnoldy, Rayanne Darensbourg and Holly Radom
IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES
Imagine Muny III Hosts 100th Anniversary Gala Of Historic Green Space
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Amy Price and Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
THE SETTING: ACL Live at Te Moody Teatre was the recent setting for an epic fundraising night in support of one of Austin’s most iconic public spaces. Imagine Muny III benefting Te Muny Conservancy, drew 500 sociables, and an additional thousand music lovers from every corner of Austin’s philanthropic community, for an evening with special friends and great music. Te night took on an extra special feeling as it celebrated the 100th anniversary of one of Austin’s largest public green spaces, Lions Municipal Golf Course.
THE STYLE: After the cocktail party, the action headed into Te Moody Teatre for the main program. JHL Company produced the event, leading the fabulous execution of the family-style barbecue meal that allowed the cocktail conversations to fow freely over the dinner tables. As guests were winding down dinner, they were treated to a touching tribute video showcasing the historical value of the state’s frst integrated golf course and how it continues to be a gathering space for children of all backgrounds today. Next came a dazzling live auction and Fund-aNeed. Heath Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer helmed an impressive list of items that included a VIP experience during Master’s Week in Augusta, with the signed fags from Master’s Tournament winners Ben Crenshaw and Sergio Garcia being the most coveted.
Te evening was capped of with a oncein-a-lifetime musical performance lineup by acclaimed artists, including Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel, Larry Gatlin, Jimmy Vaughan, and Gary P. Nunn. Teir generosity and love of the Muny course were felt throughout the room during their singing of many classic tunes that often brought the crowd to their feet and capped of a night of fundraising that those fortunate enough to be a part of will talk about for years to come.
THE PURPOSE: Imagine Muny III, cochaired by Ben Crenshaw and Scotty Sayers, raised over $1 million for Te Muny Conservancy. Te organization was founded to preserve one of Austin’s most iconic green spaces, Lions Municipal Golf Course. Proceeds from the event will go towards preserving the course, so current and future generations can enjoy the 141acre green space in Central Austin.
Alex Mortberg and Katherine Crenshaw & Julie and Ben Crenshaw
Scotty and Julie Sayers & Kathryn and Kyle Chandler
Ansley Walker Newar, Suzanne Erickson and Taylor Carmouche
Dr. Monica Woods and Nelson Linder
Gary P. Nunn performs
Hon. Kirk Watson & Charlyn and Gerald Daugherty
Noel Bridges and Amber Perley
Rudy Gatlin, Ed Clements and Larry Gatlin
Chris Harrison and Lauren Zima
ALL FORE THE KIDS PURSUE R.S.V.P.
Sergio And Angela Garcia Foundation Hosts Dazzling
Second Annual FORE Kids ATX
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography
by Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
THE SETTING: Te Omni Barton Creek was the recent setting for the second annual FORE Kids ATX. Hosted by the Angela and Sergio Garcia Foundation, this event immediately became one of the Capital City’s most anticipated fall social events, drawing several hundred of the city’s most notable community leaders, public fgures, sociables, and philanthropists for two days of fun and fundraising.
THE STYLE: Te unique and inventive Tropical Holiday Cocktail attire theme created a majestic palette of white ensembles mixed with vibrant colors, linen, and velvet, creating a fun environment for all attendees. Te festivities began in the foyer outside of the venue’s ballroom for cocktail hour as revelers posed for images with a resortchic Santa and his elves while mingling and spreading infectious holiday cheer to others.
Te action then moved to the ballroom for the main program. As guests dined on delectable multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event leaders and a series of touching video tributes. Next, T.V. host personality Chris Harrison moderated a chat that featured Sergio Garcia, David Feherty, Bryson DeChambeau, and Talor Gooch, followed by a spirited live auction and Fund-A-Need. Te night was capped of with live music, where the partygoers danced the night away to the tunes of country singer Breland.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, hosted by Angela and Sergio Garcia, raised over $2 million for the Angela and Sergio Garcia Foundation. Proceeds raised from the event will beneft four nonprofts in the Austin community that are near and dear to the Garcia’s hearts: Dell Children’s Foundation, Foster Village, Te Muny Conservancy, and Te Ugli Foundation. Te 2024 FORE Kids ATX will be held November 1-2, 2024. For more information, visit ForeKidsATX. org.
Sergio and Angela Garcia & Brittni and Derrick Johnson
Ally Gooch, David Feherty and Talor Gooch
Ashlee and Parker Carroll
Breland performs
Cutter Dykstra and Jamie Lynn Sigler, Becca Tobin, Odette Annable, Sergio Garcia, Dave Annable & Jared and Genevieve Padalecki
Katie and Tomas Dere
Rob Giardinelli and Lance Avery Morgan & Kendra Scott and Tomas Evans
Ashley Kapono, Ashley Covert, Jason Kapono and Chance Covert
Susan Hewlitt, Lisa Tomajan and Marty Akins
Yvette Flores and Tyson Cole
Angela Garcia, Zayne Tomajan, Pam Akins and Andrea Elliott
ANIMAL INSTINCTS
Houston PetSet’s Fierce And Fabulous Soirée Scores Million Dollar Fundraising Haul
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Priscilla Dickson
THE SETTING: Helping kick of Houston’s social season each year is the Houston PetSet’s Fierce and Fabulous Soirée. Held at Te Post Oak Hotel, the most recent PetSet gala elevated the stakes, attracting 500 of the city’s most ferce and fabulous animal lovers, sociables, and philanthropists for a night of incredible experiences that those fortunate enough to be a part of will always remember.
THE STYLE: Te cocktail-attired crowd began the evening in the foyer outside Te Post Oak Hotel ballroom for a cocktail reception. Guests posed for photos on the red carpet, with several having their animals in tow. Revelers then cozied up to the bar to grab their favorite spirit and mingle with the crowd. Te action then moved into the ballroom for the main program, where emcee and Great Day Houston Host Deborah Duncan efortlessly kept the evening moving at a fun, brisk pace.
Before taking their seats, many scoped out the curated silent auction of luxury items and VIP experiences. Highlights of the program included a fve-star multi-course meal for patrons, a series of touching testimonials on how Houston PetSet has positively impacted the Houston community, and a spirited live auction that included once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a trip, Super Bowl LVIII with Rob Gronkowski, and a chance to play tennis at Wimbledon with John McEnroe being the most popular, all of which capped of a ferce, fabulous evening of fun and fundraising.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Tama Lundquist, Tena Lundquist Faust, Sandra Smith Cooper, and Brisa Field, raised over $1.1 million for Houston PetSet. Proceeds from the event will help fund the organization’s programs, services, and granting program, which awards grants to 90 diferent Houston-area animal nonprofts annually. Te 2024 Fierce & Fabulous Soirée will be held on September 6, 2024. For more information, visit HoustonPetSet.org/Soiree.
Jake and Brisa Field
Russell Chamberlin and Taylor Lundquist
Tena Faust, Marge Lundquist and Tama Lundquist
Charlie and Jill Talisman
Hershey Grace and Ed McMahon
Nini Hale and Susan Boggio
Sandra Smith Cooper and Matthew Cooper
Jef and Rachelle Ball
Marla and Matt Hurley
Trent Hrncir and Courtney Hopson
Tyson Faust, Sidney Faust and Bubba McNeely
ONE ICONIC NIGHT
Icons-Temed Museum of Fine Arts Houston’s Grand Gala Ball Raises Over $2 Million
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Jenny Antill and Wilson Parrish
THE SETTING: One of Houston’s most anticipated annual fundraisers elevated the stakes even higher this year with an iconic night of fun and fundraising. A sold-out crowd of approximately 425 of the city’s most notable art patrons, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston’s annual Grand Gala Ball. Te night featured a great crowd, fabulous performances, and stunning art making this year’s event one for the ages.
THE STYLE: Te black tie ensembles featured a mix of classic tuxedo and ballgown fare with many opting to wear bright colors, sequins, and metallics creating a rich tapestry that elevated the fun of the evening. Guests entered the event through a tent dressed in hot-pink drapery and a gold chandelier...where, on the other side, revelers were mingling during a lively cocktail hour. Patrons cozied up to the diamond-shaped bar fanked by works from Andy Warhol to grab their spirit of choice, then promptly returned to socializing with other guests.
Partygoers then took to their seats for the evening’s main program. Richard Flowers of Te Events Company created an iconic space. And, as attendees dined on their multi-course meal by City Kitchen, clips of scenes from iconic flms played on a large LED screen in the background, giving the evening another innovative layer of artistry. Te night was capped with a dazzling array of music and performances. To kick things of was a set by Los Angeles-based musician Brandon Wattz, which was followed by a surprise performance by Texas native Bun B. After the crowd was warmed up, DJ Lucy Wrubel kept revelers on the dance foor well into the night, capping of an iconic
THE PURPOSE: Nicole and Evan Katz co-chaired the 2023 Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Grand Gala Te event raised $2.079 million for the Museum’s annual operating budget to ensure world-class arts are delivered to Houston. Te 2024 Museum of Fine Arts Houston Grand Gala Ball will be on October 24, 2024. For more information, visit MFAH.org.
Andrew and Mona Sarofm
Christopher Gardner and Gary Tinterow
Hunter Bell, Liz Anders and Brittany Zeplain
Nancy and Rich Kinder
Nicole and Evan Katz
Rose Cullen & Harry and Macey Reasoner
Quyen Trinh and Angela Kong Trinh & Alan May
Mason Barker and Meredith Flores Barker
Laurie Morian, Whitney Crane and Joan Schnitzer
Jonathan and Lily Schnitzer
ARTFUL
ENDEAVORS
Dallas Contemporary’s 45th Anniversary Gala Dazzles In $1.6 Million Night
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tamytha Cameron, Exploredinary, and Beckley Photography
THE SETTING: A sold-out crowd featuring over 300 of Dallas’ most notable art patrons, sociables, and philanthropists descended on the design district to celebrate a milestone anniversary of one of Texas’ most beloved arts organizations. Tose fortunate enough to attend the Dallas Contemporary’s annual gala celebrating the organization’s 45th anniversary were treated to a fabulous night of amazing art, fabulous food, and a fantastic amount raised for the museum.
THE STYLE: Te artist-chic crowd featured patrons donning a mix of traditional black tie tuxedos and ballgowns with more colorful, avant-garde looks that provided a diverse, welcoming tapestry for all who attended. While scanning the room, one could see that many donned ensembles as a nod to the event color scheme of deep sapphire blue, Rauschenberg orange, and toxic-hot pink.
Te night began with a cocktail reception where partygoers mingled while sipping on their favorite spirits. During the cocktail hour, patrons also had the chance to peruse the impressive silent auction to bid on their favorite pieces from multiple acclaimed artists, including Sarah Awad, Pedro Reyes, and Eduardo Sarabia among others.
Guests then headed to their seats for the main program. Te patrons' jaws dropped upon entering the room as they were enveloped by artist Tramaine Townsend’s large-scale projection of dancers from his flm for musician August Truly’s album Space for Sweeter. As revelers dined on a delectable, multi-course meal by Joule Catering that featured tastes from multiple concepts from Headington Companies, including Tango Room, Sasetta, and Mirador they were treated to words by the event's leaders.
Next, came a fast-paced, spirited live auction where patrons bid on works of top artists from around the world including Oliver Beer, Jonathan Gardner, Eddie Martinez, Alicja Kwade, Patrick Martinez, and Will Boone. Te night was capped of with an epic after party that featured a pop-up bar by Midnight Rambler while DJ Sober spun tunes as revelers danced on a dance foor that had projected acid-y foral animations courtesy of LILKOOL.
THE PURPOSE: Te Dallas Contemporary’s annual gala was co-chaired by Jacqueline Sewell Atkinson and William Atkinson, Brandon Maxwell, and Jordan Jones Munoz. Te event raised over $1.6 million for the organization. Proceeds raised from the event will beneft museum programs including exhibitions and educational programs. Te 2024 Dallas Contemporary Gala will be held on September 20, 2024. For more information, visit DallasContemporary.org.
DALLAS
Jordan Jones Munoz, Brandon Maxwell, William Atkinson and Jacquelin Sewell Atkinson
Rand Horowitz and Shayna Fontana Horowitz, Annabelle Toole & Robyn and Michael Siegel
Tanner Ewing, Laura Kovacevich, Capera Ryan, Kaleta Blafer Johnson, Bach Mai and Chad Choen
TK Wonder and Ciprianna Quann
Tramaine Townsend
Brian and Claire Gogel, Ashley Wein and Craig Efron
Beth Hutchens, Brian Bolke, Carolina Sarria and Faisal Halum
CENTENARY CELEBRATION
Memorial Park Conservancy Celebrates 100th Year With Al Fresco Gala
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Jenny Antill
THE SETTING: Te Clay Family Eastern Glades at Memorial Park was the setting for a springtime gala al fresco to commemorate the centennial of one of Space City’s most beloved green spaces. Over 450 of the city’s most prominent sociables, nature lovers, and philanthropists turned out for Memorial Park Conservancy’s Te Park Ball: Celebrating 100 Years and the result was a dazzling evening and jubilant celebration that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE STYLE: Te park chic-attired crowd featured an array of warm weather fashions that included bright colors, foral prints, and pastels with a “no ties or heels” policy, which created a relaxed, welcoming environment for all. Guests began the evening with a festive al fresco cocktail reception in the Clay Family Eastern Glades, where patrons mingled in anticipation of the fun ahead. Revelers then moved to the nearby open-aired tent for the evening’s program.
Te beautifully decorated tables, with a mix of vibrant spring fower arrangements that included roses, ranunculus, and wildfowers, perfectly complemented the gorgeous night. While attendees dined on a multi-course menu courtesy of City Kitchen, they were treated to words about Christopher Knapp and his tireless support for the park over the years. Tere was also an update on the future of the park from community leaders, including the lead architect, Tomas Woltz, of Memorial Park’s Ten-Year-Plan, ensuring that the destination will be a must-visit space for Houstonians and beyond for many years to come.
THE PURPOSE: Te Park Ball: Celebrating 100 Years, co-chaired by Karol and Paul Barnhart, Kate and Steve Gibson, and Diane and David Modesett, raised a recordbreaking $1.25 million for the Memorial Park Conservancy. Proceeds from the event will go towards initiatives to restore, preserve, and enhance Memorial Park for all of the region’s citizens to enjoy.
Bobby and Phoebe Tudor
Giles and Andrea Kibbe
Janet Hobby and Anne Hamman Brollier
Louie and Maggie Layrisson
Paul and Karol Barnhart, Diane and David Modesett & Kate and Steve Gibson
Roberta and David Rude Mia and Peter Smith
Tammy Jenkins, Myron Blalock, Steve Jenkins and Carrie Pepi
Jef and Wendy Hines
MEDIEVAL MAGIC
Children’s Cancer Fund’s A Knight to Remember Gala A SellOut Event
By Cynthia Smoot | Photography by Tamytha Cameron
THE SETTING: Te 2024 Children’s Cancer Fund’s A Knight to Remember gala, hosted at the Hilton Anatole and presented by Emberli Pridham’s A Real Life Fairy Tale, captivated attendees with its medieval theme. Tis magical evening of chivalry and hope united the gallant knights and dames of the gracious supporters who raised vital funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research in an enchantingly noble cause.
THE STYLE: Honorary chairs Troy Aikman and Dak Prescott, alongside Tony Romo, Kathy Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Stacey Bendet, Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia, and more personalities, united at the gala. In fact, Aikman’s 25-year commitment and Prescott’s second term as chair highlighted the event. Fashion met philanthropy as patients aged 6-17 showcased their bravery in a moving fashion show, with NBC 5’s Meredith Land as the host. Plenty of VIP moments, auctions, and a heartwarming dinner rounded out this inspiring evening.
THE PURPOSE: Te sold-out gala garnered remarkable generosity, raising $2.7 million for pediatric cancer research and treatment at Children’s HealthSM and UT Southwestern. Te Children’s Cancer Fund establishes crucial endowments to enable substantial funds to be dedicated toward essential research and Child Life services. As a top fundraising entity, CCF signifcantly advances local research in childhood cancer treatment and prevention, profoundly impacting young lives.
Kimberly and Justin Whitman
Tony and Candace Romo
Bina Palnitkar and Meredith Land
Chris Jennings, Rochelle Gores & Lele and Armand Sadoughi
Dak Prescott, Emberli Pridham and Troy Aikman
Jen Strong and Jennifer Arthur
Kasey and Todd Lemkin
Katy Brooks, Lele Sadoughi, Kameron Westcott, Amanda Shufedlt and Sharon Lee Clark
Tifany and Tyler Clutts
Mackenzie Mickelson and Jamie O'Banion
PURSUE R.S.V.P. HOUSTON
STARRY STARRY NIGHT
An Evening With Legends Features Performances By Music Icons for Texas Children's Hospital
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Jenny Antill
THE SETTING: Te Post Oak Hotel was the setting for a fabulous night of philanthropy and music. A sold-out crowd that included over 700 of the city’s most notable music lovers, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the annual Texas Children’s Hospital An Evening With Legends Tis year’s featured legends were music icons David Foster and Katharine McPhee.
THE STYLE: Te festivities began in the foyer outside the ballroom for a lively cocktail hour. Guests sipped on their favorite spirits, and many chatted about which of the duo’s hit songs would be a part of their live musical performance. Te action then moved into the ballroom for the main program. Guests were dazzled by the transformation of the ballroom into a chic piano bar, which only enhanced the special evening. Texas Children’s President and Emcee Debbie Sukin efortlessly kept the evening fowing at a fun, brisk pace as revelers dined on their multi-course meals, where they were treated to words by the event and organization’s leaders.
Te night was capped of with a concert performance by David Foster and Katharine McPhee. While Foster played the piano, McPhee sang various iconic tunes, including serenading two tables in the audience, who won the privilege through a one-of-a-kind auction experience. Toward the end of the concert, aspiring Broadway star and Texas Children’s cancer patient, Layla Bourgesi sang Somewhere Over the Rainbow accompanied by Foster on the piano, which brought tears to many in the audience and a standing ovation after the performance that encapsulated the impact of a special, legendary evening.
THE PURPOSE: An Evening with Legends, co-chaired by Shelly and Brian Hendry, Sue Smith, and Limor and Stuart Smith, raised over $1.25 million for the Texas Children’s Hospital Cancer and Hematology Center. Proceeds will go towards programs and research initiatives.
Brian and Shelly Hendry & Steven Arnold and Sean McCoy
Ann Ayer & Norman and Donna Lewis
Carolyn Sabat, Dr. Laura Shekerdemian and Ralph Weber
Dr. Susan Blaney & Dr. Asha and Farid Virani
Joe and Cathy Cleary
Katharine McPhee performs
Mark & Julia DeWalsh, Debbie Sukin, Virginia Tomlinson & Emily Crosswell
Richard and Heather Avant & Stacey and Steve Bourque
Brittany Franklin & Frances and Tony Buzbee
Stuart and Limor Smith, David Foster and Katharine McPhee, Sue Smith and Jim Eberly
THE STARS ARE BRIGHT
Andy Roddick Foundation Hosts Star-Studded $1.4 Million Gala
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
THE SETTING: ACL Live at Te Moody Teater in Austin was the setting for one of the Capital City’s most beloved annual galas, where 450 sports enthusiasts, music lovers, community leaders, and philanthropists were on hand to support the Andy Roddick Foundation Gala. Te night brought great music, touching tributes, and an impressive seven-fgure fundraising haul.
THE STYLE: Te attendees began the evening at 3TEN for a VIP reception and cocktail hour where celebrities mixed with community leaders and philanthropists. Many took the opportunity to pose for images on the red carpet with Andy Roddick and Brooklyn Decker to commemorate the evening. Te festivities then moved to the orchestra level of ACL Live at Moody Teater for the main program.
Partygoers dined on a multi-course meal as emcee Bobby Bones efortlessly kept the crowd laughing and engaged. Attendees were treated to emotional testimonials about how the Foundation has positively impacted so many children in the Austin community. Next, TK Kenney of Astounding Auctions helmed a Funda-Need and spirited live auction that featured luxury experiences. As the live auction wrapped up, an additional 1,500 people fled into the upper levels of Te Moody Teater for a concert by platinum-selling artists Riley Green and Matt Stell, capping of a fabulous evening of fun and fundraising.
THE PURPOSE: Te Andy Roddick Foundation Gala, hosted by Andy Roddick and Brooklyn Decker, and Natalee and Charles Tornburgh, raised over $1.4 million for the Andy Roddick Foundation. Te organization provides out-of-school programs and learning opportunities to underserved elementary school-aged kids in East Austin, which are crucial to their success. Te 2024 Andy Roddick Foundation Gala will be held on November 18, 2024. For more information, visit ARFoundation.org.
Andy Roddick and Brooklyn Decker & Natalie and Charles Tornburgh
Joe and Jamie Garcia
Matt Stell performs
Riley Green performs
Sherri West and Megan Slover
Kelly Frye and Nick Campbell
TK Kenney
Troy Schiermeyer and Amanda Tatom
Bobby Bones and Caitlin Parker
LET THERE BE LIGHT
ReuNight For Te Family Place
Dazzles Guests At Te New Hôtel Swexan
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass
THE SETTING: Hôtel Swexan in Dallas was the setting for one of Dallas’ most fun events when over 200 community leaders, advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 11th annual ReuNight for Te Family Place. Te night featured a mix of great company, touching tributes, and stunning décor that beneftted one of the state’s most esteemed nonproft organizations.
THE STYLE: Te cocktail chic-attired crowd featured a mix of classic suits and ballgowns with sequins and bold prints, creating a festive environment. Te festivities began with a cocktail hour, where against the backdrop of music provided by electric violinist Zuriel Merek, patrons sipped on champagne, nibbled on passed light bites, and perused an impressive silent auction featuring an array of luxury experiences. Guests then headed into the Hôtel Swexan ballroom for the main program. Jaws dropped as revelers were treated to an elegant space designed by celebrity event producer Steve Kemble featuring over 3,000 candles and a deep soft navy, gold, and white color palette. As partygoers dined on their frst course of a menu curated by Executive Chef James Ash, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders about the important work Te Family Place does to positively impact the North Texas community.
Guests then dined on the main course as the Hunter Sullivan Band played in the background, keeping the energy up and the conversations fowing. Next, a paddles-up, led by ReuNight emcee and auctioneer Matt Godbehre, drove the fundraising that garnered a $100,000 match by an anonymous donor. Te night was capped of with the Afterglow after party at Hôtel Swexan’s speakeasy, Babou’s.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, cochaired by Annie and Erik Miller, and Kristin and James Hallam, raised funds for Te Family Place. Te largest provider of family violence services in Texas, the organization provides counseling, housing, and other support services to over 44,000 people annually to help families progress from fear to safety.
Annie and Erik Miller
James Hallam, Steve Kemble and Kristin Hallam
Bunny and Harold Ginsburg
Chuck and Lindsay Jacaman
Heather Cosmano and Urek Reznik
Laurie Berger and Tifany Tate McDaniel
Leila and Holland Gary
Erin Mathews and Julie Bosché
Leigh Rinearson, Carol Warren, Paige Flink and KJ Murphy
Wendy Goldberg and Adam Weil
HERE'S HOW COURAGE TRIUMPHS
Holocaust Museum Houston Annual LBJ Moral Courage Award Dinner And Gala Honors
Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by Wilson Parish and Jacob Power
THE SETTING: Te Hilton AmericasHouston was the setting for one of the city’s most popular and anticipated spring fundraising events. Over a thousand of the city’s top civic and community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the Holocaust Museum Houston’s annual LBJ Moral Courage Award Dinner.
THE STYLE: Te cocktail-attired crowd began the evening with a VIP reception where guests had the opportunity to meet the evening’s featured guests, CNN’s Dana Bash, Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat, and Marion Ein Lewin. Patrons then headed to a larger reception outside the ballroom for a cocktail hour where the attendees mingled before the action moved to the ballroom for the main program. After guests were treated to words from the Holocaust Museum Houston and the event’s leaders, they dined on a multi-course kosher meal. Next, Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat was honored with the annual LBJ Moral Courage award. Following his moving speech, the night was capped of with a conversation moderated by Dana Bash with Eizenstat and his partner and child Holocaust survivor, Marion Ein Lewin. Te trio engaged in a moving discussion about Eizenstat’s relationship with LBJ and the hope for a future free of prejudice and hate
THE PURPOSE: Te LBJ Moral Courage Award Dinner, co-chaired by Stephanie and Frank Tsuru, and with Sue Smith serving as honorary chair, raised $1.3 million for Holocaust Museum Houston. Proceeds from the event will go towards the museum’s educational programs.
Frank and Stephanie Tsuru & Barbara J. Herz
Barry Mandel and Dr. Scott Sawyer
Brian Caress and Jessica Strehlow
Charles and Lily Foster
Hon. Stuart E. Eizenstat, Dana Bash and Marion Ein Lewin
Joyce and David Kadjar & Regina Rogers
Ken and Mady Kades
Nancy Li Tarim and Dr. Soner Tarim
Ruth Steinfeld, Chris Kase and Cyvia Wolf
Drs. Mia and Remus Wright & Donna Fujimoto Cole
Judy Mucasey & Steven and Ariel Becker
FIRE & ICE
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas 19th Annual Ice Ball Sizzles
By Rob Giardinelli | Photography by
THE SETTING: Te JW Marriott in Austin was the setting for the inaugural event which kicks of the city’s social season each year. Over 700 of the city’s top community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas’ 19th Annual Ice Ball. It was an evening so hot it was cool. Great friends and touching tributes resulted in a seven-fgure fundraising night for the organization.
THE STYLE: Te black tie crowd featured revelers who took the fre and ice theme to heart, donning ensembles in shades of red and blue. Te evening began in the ballroom foyer with a cocktail reception where guests posed in front of a giant ice sculpture to commemorate the evening. After grabbing their favorite spirit of choice, guests mingled and enjoyed experiential activations, including handsketched portraits courtesy of Vogue Vignette. Te action then moved to the ballroom for the main program. KVUE news anchor Quita Culpepper served as emcee while attendees dined on multicourse meals. Emotional testimonials from children, whose lives have been positively impacted due to the support of their big brother and big sister mentors, were also shared with the crowd.
Next came a spirited live auction with a trip to explore James Bond’s secret hideaways in France, Italy, and Switzerland along with a Game of Trones adventure to Spain and Croatia being among the most sought-after. Te night concluded with an after party where revelers hit the dance foor until the wee hours of the morning.
THE PURPOSE: Te event, co-chaired by Pamela and Will Hurley, raised over $1.1 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. Te organization matches children ages six and older with adult mentors who ofer support and encouragement to each child. Te 20th annual Ice Ball will be held on August 24, 2024. For more information, visit BigMentoring.org/Ice-Ball.
Will and Pamela Hurley
Brandon and Tifany Hughes
Connie and Bill Nelson
Hugh and Vivian Forrest Lori and Mark Ramseur
Art and Cristina Guerra & Janice and Robert Hernandez
Qainta Harris, Mollie O’Hara Leach and Erin Knipp
Quita Culpepper
Gordon and Alexis Moore & Tom and Lynn Meredith
Jeremiah Bentley, Emmy Alcocer Hill & Christine and Blake Absher
A ROARING SUCCESS
Evening Of Fundraising Raised Over $1.4 Million For Dallas Zoo
By Cynthia Smoot Photography by Tomas Garza and Rob Wythe
THE SETTING: Te Dallas Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser, themed Adventure Awaits, was presented by Te Eugene McDermott Foundation and Honorary Chair Lyda Hill. As guests embarked upon the Dallas Zoo Entry Plaza, they were met with an impressive display of vehicles from Sewell Automotive Group. After passing through the front gates, they were greeted by beautiful famingoes mingling with the crowd courtesy of the Dallas Zoo’s Animal Adventures Outreach program, which also served as the perfect backdrop for photos and selfes, as welcome cocktails were served.
Co-chairs Steven J. Roth and Tai-lan Tran greeted guests dressed in festive Safari chic as trams loaded VIPs for private tours. Others chose to indulge in the gourmet oferings at the Gorilla Research Station VIP reception, traveling by trams past the huge animal lanterns lit up for the Dallas Zoo Lights Presented by Reliant holiday event. Arriving at the Giants of the Savanna habitat, a lively scene of bar stations glowing with colorful images of animals from the event’s fabulous invitation and towering balloons lit with sponsors' names created an exceptional experiential feeling before the robust live auction began.
THE STYLE: Patrons strolled around the silent auction, savoring the culinary fered by some of Dallas’ most cant restaurants. Along the way, the Zoo staf was armed with animal encounters, including a boa constrictor, an armadillo, and an owl. Te adventurous were also able to indulge in the ultimate fun, as they were welcome to feed the es. Late night was a special treat, with fun desserts and late-night bites from even more outstanding restaurants that were stationed in the Wilds of Africa Plaza.
THE PURPOSE: This event is a major source of funding for the nonprofit Dallas Zoo, bringing in more than $1 million each year to help support the Zoo’s dedication to providing the best animal care, delivering unique educational offerings, and strengthening its wildlife conservation efforts with 37 conservation partners over four continents. The 2024 Zoo To Do will be held on November 2, 2024. For more information, visit DallasZoo.com.
Alan and Joan Walne
Brett Kraft, Dan Landsberg and Jimmy Contreras
Cindy and Chuck Gummer
Claudia Lode and Preston Hext
Dawn and Steve Moore
Lyda Hill & Ellen and Paul Flowers
Kate and Lane Britain
Robyn and Chris Chauvin
Tai Ian Tran and Steven J. Roth
Brooke and Keith Grisham
Sean Greene and Harrison Edell
ATTEND
AUSTIN
August 24
Ice Ball 2024
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas BigMentoring.org
September 14
Black and White Ball Texas Advocacy Project TexasAdvocacyProject.org
September 21
69th Annual Jewel Ball Women’s Symphony League of Austin WSLAustin.org
September 26
A Good Night for Goodwill Goodwill of Central Texas GoodwillCentralTexas.org
October 10
Glow in the Park Waterloo Greenway Conservancy WaterlooGreenway.org
October 19
Play Bingo Ladies Luncheon Center for Child Protection CenterForChildProtection.org
October 24
Shine for Rise
Te Rise School of Austin RiseSchoolAustin.org
October 25
25th Annual Champions for Children Luncheon
Helping Hand Home for Children HelpingHandHome.org
October 25
Art Dinner 2024
Te Contemporary Austin TeContemporaryAustin.org
November 1-2
FORE Kids ATX
Te Sergio & Angela Garcia Foundation FOREKidsATX.org
November 2
Luminarium
Pease Park Conservancy PeasePark.org
November 18
2024 Gala
Te Andy Roddick Foundation ARFoundation.org
November 23
Rags to Wags Gala Austin Humane Society AHSRagsToWags.org
December 7
Dancing with the Stars: Austin Center for Child Protection CenterForChildProtection.org
February 1
Dell Children’s Ball
Dell Children’s Medical Center SupportDellChildrens.org
February 8
CASABlanca: Cheers to 40 Years
CASA of Travis County CASAblancaGala.com
February 25-26
Texas Medal of Arts Awards
Texas Cultural Trust TxCulturalTrust.org
DALLAS/FORT WORTH
September 12
Ten Best Dressed Fashion Show
Te Crystal Charity Ball CrystalCharityBall.org
September 20
Dallas Contemporary 2024 Gala
Dallas Contemporary Art Museum DallasContemporary.org
September 28
Mad Scientist Ball 2024 Fort Worth Museum of Science and Natural History FWMuseum.org
September 28
2024 Symphony Gala Dallas Symphony Orchestra DallasSymphony.org
September 28
Cattle Baron’s Ball American Cancer Society CattleBaronsBall.com
October 4
Texas Trailblazers Awards Luncheon Te Family Place FamilyPlace.org
October 10
Party In Te Park Klyde Warren Park KlydeWarrenPark.org
October 10
Burgers & Burgundy DIFFA Dallas DIFFADallas.org
October 4
Fur Ball SPCA of Texas FurBallDallas.com
October 19
Two X Two for AIDS and Art amFAR TwoXTwo.org
October 24
Tex-Mex Fiesta Farrah Fawcett Foundation FarrahFawcettFoundation.org
November 2 Zoo to Do Dallas Zoo DallasZoo.com/ZooToDo
November 9
Folds of Honor Gala Folds of Honor North Texas NorthTexas.FoldsOfHonor.org
November 9
Night at the Museum Perot Museum PerotMuseum.org
November 13
A Writers Garden Literary Symposium & Luncheon Women’s Council of Dallas Arboretum WCDABG.org
November 21
Bravo! Gala AT&T Performing Arts Center ATTPAC.org
November 21
Doing the Most Good Luncheon
Salvation Army of North Texas SalvationArmyNTX.org
December 7
Fort Worth Margarita Ball
Children’s Charities of Fort Worth ChildrensCharitiesFW.com
December 7
Te Crystal Charity Ball CrystalCharityBall.org
February 12
41st Annual St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Events.LLS.org
HOUSTON
September 6
Fierce & Fabulous Soiree Houston Pet Set HoustonPetSet.org
September 24
Best Dressed Luncheon March of Dimes MarchOfDimes.org/BestDressed
September 29
Houston Ladies Who Brunch Sky High SkyHighForKids.org
October 5
Red Hot Gala 2024 Houston Professional Firefghter Association Charitable Foundation HoustonsBravest.org
October 10
Razzle Dazzle 2024 Memorial Hermann MemorialHermann.org
