Well, wouldn’t you know that all the pretty faces and fashions for the 2018 Crystal Charity Ball would crater the MySweetCharity Photo Gallery? To try to regroup, Part II of the 2018 Crystal Charity Ball MySweetCharity Photo Gallery is now up and running. If it’s not, it’s because the MSC roadrunners are taking a much-deserved break.
Sorry, if your hearts were broken by the mere 70+ photos posted yesterday, take heart. There are more than 70 here!
For 2018 Crystal Charity Ball Chair Claire Emanuelson, the mega-fundraiser for Dallas County children, was a love letter to her hometown, 300-year-old New Orleans, as well as a loving tribute to her late mother. Working with Event Producer Tom Addis and her CCB posse of 99 women plus some sidekicks like Niven Morgan and Shelby Wagner, the Hilton Anatole’s Chantilly Ballroom and reception area was “A Celebration in Nouvelle-Orleans” on Saturday, December 1.
Before the ballroom doors even opened at 9 p.m., the roughly 1,500 black-tie guests wandered from the silent auction on the left side of the upper-level lobby against a Commander’s Palace backdrop to the gaming area on the right side. Across the way, where a Lexus up for raffle was parked, it was like the French Quarter’s antique row with chairs hung on the wall. In the center of the lower level was a marvelous replica of the Hotel Monteleone’s Carousel Bar surrounded by The French Market’s tables and chairs and mammoth buffet tables offering mountains of ginormous shrimps and crab claws, mini-muffaletta lollipops and servers with trays of Hurricanes.
One eager twosome, knowing about the lavish cocktail menu, not only showed up half an hour before the official start, but peeled back the food’s protective covering and began digging in.
The usual photo centerpiece at the entrance, which traditionally has been the sweet spot for the fashionably attired guests, proved to be a bit of a challenge. Looking like a charming Jackson Square courtyard with a fountain and shrubbery, it had all the elements of perfection — except for the dark lighting and the mirror at the back of the Bar reflecting the photographers’ flashes. Another problem was the non-stop traffic of hotel guests with baby strollers trying to make their way through the formally attired throng. Luckily, there were other areas that were less jammed, including the entryway reminiscent of Oak Alley lined with trees draped with Spanish moss.
Dallas Morning News writer Robert Wilonsky, removing his glasses, admitted that “Tonight I’m arm candy” with wife Mary Wilonsky, whose Friends of the Dallas Public Library was one of the 2018 CCB beneficiaries.
And speaking of the faces and fashions in the crowd, this one was a feast for the eyes. Leading the herd of designers was Patti Flowers (worn by Ashley Allen, Marybeth Conlon, Lisa Cooley, Patti Flowers, Susan Palma, Beth Thoele and Emilynn Wilson) followed by Oscar de la Renta (Robyn Conlon, Jennifer Dix, Nancy Rogers, Mimi Sterling, Kristina Whitcomb and Piper Wyatt) and Hererra (Tucker Enthoven, Ashley Hunt, Angie Kadesky, Katy Bock, Cynthia Mitchell and Linda Secrest), Michael Faircloth (Tiffany Divis, Tracy Lange and Elsa Norwood) and Nardos (Garden Gate’s Maria Villanueva and Nardos Imam).
Also grabbing a second look or three were Janie Condon in Rachel Gilbert, Gail Fischer in Pamella Roland, Pam Perella in Galvan London, Pat McEvoy in Monique Lhuillier, Bela Cooley in Bladi Duran, Nikki Webb in Karl Lagerfeld, Muffin Lemak in Di Lorenzo Serafini, Peggy Meyer in Alberta Ferretti, Leslie Diers in Stuart Weitzman, Cheryl Joyner in Rene Ruiz and Ciara Cooley in Basix Black.
While CCB Chair Claire had threatened she was going to wear a straightjacket, she was actually in Zac Posen. … Toni Munoz Hunt showed off the hip-high slit in her Nha Khanh by doing an Angelina Jolie leg extension .… Cara French picked out a hot pink and red satin gown at Neiman’s that “brought back memories of my mom” (Prissy Gravely) and Prissy’s Crystal Charity Ball days. Cara had on a similar dress that was “red silk satin with pink lining that folded back” by Richard Brooks.
On the other hand, Cara’s husband, Jim French “had a dream that his tux was blue-and-white striped. I am so thankful this was just a dream.” Jim’s suit was traditional black, as was were the tuxes worn by Richard Dix in Baumann, Claude Wilson in Tom James, Clay Cooley in Chris Depos, Dan Meyer in Jhane Barnes, Vin Perella in Tom Ford, Bryan Diers and Charles McEvoy in Zenga and David Condon, John Corder, Tom Mitchell and Les Secrest in Armani. John Lemak decided to go with a “gorgeous navy” by Robert Talbott.
Other fashion highlights included shoes (Vince Camuto, St. Laurent, Weitzman, Manolo Blahnik, Casadei, Louboutin, Jessica Simpson, Miu Miu, Alexandre Birman and lots of Jimmy Choo), purses (Jimmy Choo, Bottega, Susan Saffron, Pelligrenio, McMalletier, Charlotte Max and loads of Judith Leiber) and jewelry from Eiseman, deBoulle, Sue Gragg, Diamonds Direct and family collections.
Just before 9 p.m., the sound of music was heard from the second floor. Like Quarterites, everyone from the formally attired to the casual passersby directed their eyes and ears to the staircase leading from the upper level. There, they saw New Orleans’ Kinsfolk Brass Band parading jauntily around the perimeter of the lobby leading to the center doors of the ballroom. Right on cue, the doors opened and the Band led the guests into the ballroom that had been turned into a reproduction of the Garden District, complete with a faux cobblestone dance floor, balustrades and a towering “mansion at sunset” covering three of the walls.
While the Kinsfolk performers were joined on the dance floor by the like of Gloria Eulich, 2018 CCB beneficiary Booker T. Washington’s singers performed on stage to the delight of Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse, Kelli and Jerry Ford, Anita and Truman Arnold, Amy Simmons and Joe Crafton, Neiman’s President/CEO Geoffroy van Raemdonck and Alvise Orsini, United Air’s Scott Kirby with wife Kathleen Kirby, Moody Foundation’s Francie Moody Dahlberg with husband Kevin Dahlberg, health care types (Chris Durovich with wife Christina Durovich and Jim Hinton with wife Kristen Hinton), legal types (Eric Gambrell with wife Elizabeth Gambrell, Carol and Don Glendenning, Regina Montoya Coggins with husband Paul Coggins, Ladd Sanger with wife KJ Sanger, financial types (Phil White with wife Danice Couch, Rob Bowlby with wife Sarah Bowlby, Martha Martha Pickens with husband John Pickens), jewelers (Lawrence Bock with wife Katy Bock, Richard Eiseman with wife Betsy Eiseman and Yosi Mayer, former CCB Chairs (Tincy Miller, Louise Griffeth, Margo Goodwin, Jill Smith, Gloria Eulich, Debbie Oates, Cynthia Mitchell, Connie O’Neill, Aileen Pratt, Caren Kline, Robyn Conlon, Michal Powell, Christie Carter and Pam Perella) and Claire’s family (papa Dick Stephens, husband Dwight Emanuelson, sons James Emanuelson and Hillis Emanuelson and daughter-in-law Lindsey Emanuelson) and extended family Piper and Mike Wyatt (Claire and Dwight introduced Piper to Mike and, in turn, the Wyatts are the godparents of both Emanuelson sons).
As guests enjoyed the New Orleans-influenced dinner —Crab Louie, Pan-seared Filet of Beef with Parsnip and Potato Puree and Bacon and Balsamic Crispy Brussels Sprouts, and a Chocolate Hazelnut Profiterole — the chit-chat was fast and furious.
Don Huffines was philosophical about losing his state senate seat in the recent election: “It’s unbelievable how much less stress there is.” … Tiffany Divis’ hubby Paul Divis had been stuck in Connecticut on business for a week, so she had not one but two escorts: John Clutts and Sami Arslanlar … On the other hand, Dee Simmons, Lee Bailey and Doris Jacobs decided to have a girls’ night out… Bob Schlegel was breathing a big sigh of relief after a recent lung-cancer scare (no cancer, a second opinion had ruled)… Kim Hext was effusive about the season: “This is my favorite time of the year,” she said. “We see our friends, get dressed up, and celebrate the holidays.”
While there may seem to be loads of photos here, check out the 140+ over at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.
Sometimes less is more. And in the case of the 2019 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball on Saturday, February 9, at the Meyerson, the headcount of debs was less than years past. The result was more room on the stage and the dance floor and a briefer program that allowed guests more time to party the night away.
And while there may have been only 32 debs, the names filling the McDermott Hall were still top-drawer, including Barbier-Mueller, Murchison, Hunt, Schnitzer, Anderson and Scott.
While the post is being prepared for presentation, check out the debs, escorts, families and friends at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball went on a diet for 2019. Instead of the usual 40+ debs, DSOL President Lisa Loy Laughlin and Presentation Ball Chair Carla Leffert went lean with just 32 debs for the fundraiser at the Meyerson on Saturday, February 9.
What a relief! Instead of the McDermott Hall stage bulging with girls in white gown and gents in tails, this one was picture perfect.
Even the dance floor following the presentation was user-friendly. Instead of debs and dads appearing to be bumper cars, they actually had room to do under-arm turns. Those dance lessons really paid off!
Still, the evening didn’t start with great hopes. The grand get-together of debs and escorts got off to a false start, with one escort popping up only after the picture-perfect shots had been taken by the James French troop.
Before that moment took place, James French and daughter Camille French had been photographing parents, debs, escorts and extended families at the top of the lobby’s semi-circular staircase.
In between, stats, James had been on the lookout for his ladder to shoot the group photos. Meantime, parents, friends, debs and escorts chatted and made last minute adjustments, like deb Megan Molthan and her mom Heather Molthan and her sister Molly re-arranged a bobby pin in Megan’s hair.
Deb fashion notes: Stanley Korshak was well represented with debs Carly Cooper, Katherine Fraser, Kate Gioldasis, Natalie Groves, Mary Margaret Jaynes, Alix Lippincott, Elizabeth McIlyar, Mindy Osler, Elizabeth Reid, Lily Schiff, Lauren Schnitzer, Livy Scott, Samantha Sullivan, Sally Wade, Ava Wall and Whitney Wheeler in the store’s gowns… Katy Callewart wore a gown which was her cousins, her mom, Cheryl Callewart, had Dallas designer Patti Flowers create hers.
Once the group shots were taken, the debs went backstage, and the escorts and deb parents headed to the lower lobby’s bar to join guests like Honorary Co-Chairs Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller, Joan Levy, Cara and Jim French, Tonja Wells with Ken Schnitzer, Tavia and Clark Hunt, Charlotte Jones Anderson and Shy Anderson, Sherwood Wagner with Todd Clendening, Nancy Labadie, Kendall Laughlin, Hendrika and Wills Diehl, Leigh-Adella Bransom, Amy and David McCullough and their son Hayden McCullough.
While the young female guests stood proud on heels higher than an Uptown high-rise, ladies of experience felt right at home in slide-on and ballet slippers. But who was to known under the billowing gowns?
At one point a guest reported that it appeared that someone had done a heavy drip-drop of water on the stairway leading form the ground level to the lower level. The staffer took the message and disappeared. The water, on the other hand, stayed in place.
Another problem resulted from the evening’s chill. Guests arrived wearing smashing furs and evening wraps. But upon entering the reception, they scoured the packed room looking for the “coat check,” to no avail. Then, at 10 minutes to 7, a coat rack finally materialized. Upon realizing that his mother Norma Hunt had left her cloak in their car, Dan Hunt contacted the family driver to return with his mother’s coat, while daughter-in-law Toni Munoz-Hunt in a smashing red-lace Naeem Khan offered Norma her wrap in the meantime.
As the chimes peeled, summoning friends and families to the McDermott Hall, the black-tie crowd of 1,100 moved to their seats. And while liquid libations were left at the door, it was amazing to see some gals—with thong-lines showing in their almost-too-tight gowns and perfect young facing—looking like metal crunchers as they chomped down on wads of chewing gum.
Once the hall was filled, emcee Stan Gardner introduced the leadership Dallas Symphony Orchestra League President Lisa Loy Laughlin, Presentation Chair Carla Leffert, the co-chairs (Dixey Arterburn, Ginger Sager and Annell Williams) the Assembly officers (Madison Hassell, Kay Hitzelberger, Fallon Bock, Caroline Downing, Brookie Hewes, Marielle Lemasters, Perrin Griffin, Bailey Turfitt and Allie Beth Zashin) and Honor Guard officers (Alexander Pearson, Duncan MacFarlane, Spencer Hardin, Carter Ligon, John Niederer, Cameron Keith, Michael Metzger, Shy Anderson Jr., Hayden Smith and Russell Huffines).
It was then time for the presentation of the debs (Maddie Basso, Katy Callewart, Carly Cooper, Savannah Crow, Avery Davis, Katherine Fraser, Kathleen Gamso, Kate Gioldasis, Natalie Groves, Gracie Hunt, Mary Margaret Jaynes, Alix Lippincott, Georgia McGill, Elizabeth McIlyar, Megan Molthan, Elizabeth Moore, Caroline Mulligan, Coco Murchison, Hattie Newton, Mindy Osler, Cassandra Polley, Elizabeth Reid, Anna Robertson, Lily Schiff, Lauren Schnitzer, Livy Scott, Nicole Smith, Emily Stone, Samantha Sullivan, Sally Wade, Ava Wall and Whitney Wheeler).
It followed the time-honored tradition of the deb being introduced at the top of the stage, joined by her father or older family friend/member, and then escorted down the stairs to the stage. After receiving a peck on the cheek, the deb executed a full bow to the audience, extended her left arm to her evening’s escort, rose, posed for photos and exited the stage. It all went seamlessly to the cheering audience. Yes, they do cheer at a presentation ball: “I love you, Katherine!” shouted one young man. “You’re so pretty!”
As some debs headed up the aisle, they waved at friends and smiled in relief.
However, some of the debs discovered their biggest challenge lay at the back of the hall. It was managing the steps leading up to the exit. With a bouquet in one hand and an arm in the escort’s arm, the billowing white skirt often didn’t make way. In some cases, the escorts, realizing that their debs were on the verge of stepping on the gowns, relinquished the debs’ arms and helped pick up the skirt.
After a grand finale of the debs and escorts in full array on the stage, the couples paraded to the lobby. There, the debs parted company with their escorts and were greeted by their parents who were in place around the dance floor. Soon the Jordan Khan Orchestra struck up the first song of the night—”Moon River”—with debs and dads showing off their best dance moves.
For more photos of the evening, check out MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.
Donning masks and their best party attire, Genesis Young Leaders brought the circus to Sixty Five Hundred on Saturday, February 23, for their annual “Masquerade.” With all types of three-ring entertainment including acrobats and a spider monkey named Jelly, the 800 guests were the big act of the night dancing to Taylor Pace Orchestra. Here’s a report from the field:
Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support hosted its sixth annual Genesis Young Leaders (GYL) Masquerade event on Saturday, February 23, at Sixty Five Hundred, netting more than $301,000 for the women and children of Genesis. Co-chaired by Rachel and Coleman Brown and Krista and Andrew Porteous, the sold-out event was put on by presenting sponsors CBRE, Koch Real Estate Investments and Stonelake Capital Partners.
As more than 800 guests “stepped right up” to the venue, they were immediately whisked away into a vintage circus-themed night Under the Big Top. A softly-lit chandelier hanging from the ceiling set the mood, surrounded by billowing red tent streams. Statues of lions, tigers and bears (oh my!) bordered the room for all to enjoy, and VIP guests had the exclusive opportunity to hold “Jelly” the spider monkey. To top off the evening, acrobatic entertainment took the stage, consisting of balancing acts, juggling and other breathtaking stunts.
The decorations and the entertainment weren’t the only things throughout the evening that whisked guests away to the circus – one smell of the food wafting through the air and attendees were instantly transported. Corn dogs with spicy mustard, sticky caramel apples, assorted popcorn, cheesy nachos, soft pretzels, funnel cakes and Parmesan truffle fries were served throughout the night, and washed down with wine, beer and spirits… now that’s the ticket!
Taylor Pace Orchestra performed live music from Earth, Wind and Fire to Bruno Mars and everything in between. Attendees in elegant gowns and tuxedos donned sparkling masquerade masks, twirled on the dance floor and moved to the casino tables to play black jack and craps. Chips were traded in for raffle tickets, allowing guests the opportunity to win elite prizes such as a pair of stock boots from Mirion Crosby, a handbag from Christian Louboutin, two seats to the Genesis Annual Luncheon (including VIP photos with keynote speaker Terry Crews), or date night for a year – a package consisting of gift cards to select Dallas restaurants.
Genesis CEO Jan Langbein and Senior Director of Fund and Community Development Amy Norton thanked GYL Board President Molly Slusher, Rachel and Coleman and Krista and Andrew and all of the Masquerade committee for planning and executing a memorable evening. More than $300,000 was raised through the event, exceeding and breaking all previous goals and allowing Genesis Women’s Shelter to continue to serve more than 3,700 women and children who rely on Genesis each year.
Throughout the evening, guests had the opportunity to bid on silent auction packages like a shopping getaway, a staycation at the Joule or wine tasting for 20 of your closest friends. For a fun surprise, guests could participate in a designer jewelry pull to win trinkets from Kendra Scott jewelry including earrings, bracelets and more.
* Photo provided by Genesis Women's Shelter and Support
Saturday night’s Nasher Prize Award Gala has had some developments. While the stormy weather is scheduled to let up while the event is underway at the Nasher Sculpture Center, 2019 Nasher Prize Laureate German artist Isa Genzken won’t be there. It’s not because of the weather but rather her health.
Dallas Morning News workhorse Michael Granberry reported the following:
[Nasher Director Jeremy] Strick acknowledged that ‘Isa has a long history of illness, and while we knew all along that this aspect of her life might prevent her attendance here in Dallas, we very much hoped she would be able to join.’
“He noted, however, that she ‘has recently been hospitalized, and her doctors will not allow her to travel.'”
While Isa will be missed, the black-tie gala will carry on in her honor.
Art Ball 2019 Form and Function Co-Chairs Lindsey Collins and Amanda Shufeldt have been shopping the world for just the right packages to get the bid paddles waving at the black-tie dinner and live auction. To showcase the ladies’ finds, a catalogue of nine luxury packages has been sponsored by Jennifer and John Eagle/John Eagle Dealerships.
Lindsey and Amanda have also arranged for the live auction to be sponsored by Christie’s New York and for Christie’s New York Associate VP/Fulbright Scholar Robbie Gordy to rally the bidding.
There’s everything for everyone. For the stay-at-home types, there are one-of-a-kind events at Two X Two, the Dallas Museum of Art, Hall Arts Hotel, and a spot of the winner’s choice. For those with a wanderlust spirit, all four corners of the map are available thanks to five deluxe adventures ranging from the Danube, Kenya, Mexico City, and Napa/Sonoma to the Big Apple.
Starting tomorrow, a daily post describing each of the packages will lead up to the big Dallas Museum of Art fundraiser on Saturday, April 27, at the DMA. So, check Tuesday morning around 9:30 for Auction Item #9.
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
There is a reason why great musicians, artists and storytellers found their inspiration along Europe’s scenic Danube and Rhine rivers. Thanks to this Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction package, you’ll have the opportunity to float in Viking’s state-of-the-art Longship that Condé Nast Traveler lists as #1 on its River Cruise Line listings.
As your Longship leisurely passes by legendary castles and charming villages, you’ll be able to take in both sides of the river from
And if some reflective time is on your must-do list, there’s even a library with wood paneling, books galore and computers, of course.
Home aboard your Longship will be a Veranda Stateroom Category D featuring its own private open balcony overlooking the water.
The question that you and your guest will have to decide is whether to sail along the Danube, the Rhine or both.
Package will include:
Compliments of Strong Travels and Viking River Cruises
Restrictions: Cruise selection is subject to availability at time of booking. Airfare not included. Must travel by April 2020, excluding all peak and holiday periods. (Best time to travel would be summer of 2019).
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
Terra de Promissio may translate to “land of promise,” but it has become a work of love. Located in California’s Sonoma Coast appellation, the 50-acre vineyard is considered the birthplace for the wine industry’s most impressive Pinot Noir grapes. Terra de Promissio owners Diana and Charles Karren selected the acreage specifically because it would provide the ideal conditions for the grapes to develop for such winemakers as Castello Di Amorosa, Domaine Della, Dutcher Crossing, Friedman, Hanzel Vineyards, Kistler, Kosta Browne, Notre Vin, Sense, Soliste, Spell Estate, Whetstone and Williams Selyem.
Along with their family and Percy “the best vineyard dog in the world,” they personally care for the planting, growing and harvesting of the grapes.
Their track record has resulted in award after award since its first harvest in 2005. To accomplish this feat, “every row and block is custom farmed per each of the winemakers’ specific instructions.”
Ah, but that’s just a smidgen of what the winner of this Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction package will experience and they won’t have to pack up and head to California for it. Six couples will “learn the important winemaking techniques with a personal wine-blending session.” To help with their education, the couples will have “10 barrel samples for each couple to learn the subtle, yet distinctive, difference between Pinot Noir clones to create their unique wine.”
But there’s still more. The couples will have time to tidy up their wine cellar (or construct one) to “receive a Magnum of wine they created with their name on the bottle.”
Even if you don’t know a Riesling from a Merlot, this package will make you impress the snootiest sommelier.
Package will include:
Compliments of Charles and Diana Karren of Land of Promise winery
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
“What to wear?” so often is the question that drumbeats through even the most fashionable types whether it’s for a Sunday game at AT&T Stadium suite or the Art Ball 2019 gala. Ah, but those are simple challenges to overcome thanks to closets filled with the latest fashions and/or some tried-and-true favs.
But what about attending New York Fashion Week. It’s definitely an occasion where your wardrobe needs some curating and that’s exactly why this Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction package is tailor-made to handle that situation.
First you’ll have fashion expert Jake Oliver will do a personalized closet edit to “maximize” your current collection. Then he’ll “guide” you through an online tour of ModaOperandi.com with the help of a $1,000 credit to spiff up your look. Perhaps some pink Gucci sunglasses? Or, an Olympia Le-Tan Red Marihuana clutch with mini-appliqued embroidered canvas? Or, why not show your Texas roots by grabbing that Ralph Lauren fringed Bryleigh lambskin jacket with skinny Japanese twill jeans?
During your two-night stay at the luxury five-star Greenwich Hotel in NYC, you’ll attend one of the fashion shows and afterwards do a meet-and-greet with the designer in his/her showroom. Don’t forget your cellphone for that selfie you’ll want to email back home.
But, wait! There’s still more. To add to your memory bank and your updated look, you’ll receive a Marc Cross monogrammed bag.
Package will include:
Compliments of Moda Operandi, Greenwich Hotel and Lehmann Maupin
Restrictions: Must travel September 6-14, 2019 (New York Fashion Week). Airfare not included.
Birthdays are always memory makers. But what about a truly one-of-a-kind celebration surrounded by friends and world-famous art? If your paddle is the last one standing at the Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction, you just need to pick out your 14 BFFs and the date.
Then prepare for partying it up with access to four floors of the Dallas Museum of Art. And it certainly won’t be a typical balloons and birthday candles (they aren’t allowed at the DMA) and Chuck-E-Cheese pizza. Instead, Emily Clarke Events will create the look and Ruthie’s Rolling Café will provide its incredible grilled cheeses sandwiches, chips and drinks.
And, of course, what is a birthday without a birthday cake? Not to worry. Thanks to Fancy Cakes by Lauren, it will an edible piece of art.
Just imagine how your guests will react when they receive the custom invitations and favors created by The Detail Department.
So, whether it’s for a munchkin or an AARP kid, this package will be a birthday to remember.
Package will include:
Compliments of the Dallas Museum of Art, Ruthie’s Rolling Café, Emily Clarke Events, The Detail Department, and Fancy Cakes by Lauren
Restrictions: Mutually agreed upon time and date arranged with the Dallas Museum of Art staff. Summer availability is limited. Must provide at least three weeks’ notice. Please note traditional birthday candles and balloons are not allowed in the Museum, but Emily Clarke will be able to create something special and unique!
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
Don’t believe the title for this Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction package. It’s beyond perfect for Two X Two vets as well as newbie art lovers. From the perfect makeup for the luxury evening of fundraising, $20,000 worth of shopping at Hudson Yards’ Forty Five Ten and two places at the Headington Companies table, nothing has been left out.
BTW, you might want to put your chauffeur on sabbatical. In addition to Alto providing transportation to Two X Two events, you’ll receive unlimited rides for three months.
The only problem will be deciding who will be your companion attending the Saturday, October 26, gala at The Rachofsky dome, the First Look and the post-gala Sunday Brunch.
Package will include:
Compliments of Headington Companies, Forty Five Ten, The Joule, Alto and Two X Two
Restrictions: Forty Five Ten gift cards may not be combined. Forty Five Ten gift card to be issued quarterly (May 2019, August 2019, November 2019 and February 2020). Certificate to be used over the weekend of Two X Two October 2019, may not be split over multiple weekends.
* Photo credit: Kevin Tachman ** Photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
This Art Ball 2019 Form and Function live auction package will astound even the most well-travelled art-lover. Mexico City is known throughout the world for its range of art treasures. From the centuries-old Teotihuacan Pyramid and Puebla to the sleek, contemporary kurimanzutto and Museo Jumex, the city simply has way too much to take in.
That’s why the winner of the package will work with Eugene McDermott Director Agustín Arteaga to not just curate a five-day, four-night tour of Mexico City’s art treasures for the winner of this package, Agustin will personally guide a group of 6-8 travelers to the feasts of the eye.
And, of course, because Agustín’s marvelous taste and connections can open doors, there will be visits and suppers in private homes, as well as a dinner hosted by the Dallas Museum of Art.
Package will include:
Compliments of Agustín Arteaga and the Dallas Museum of Art
Restrictions: Mutually agreed upon time and date arranged with Dr. Agustín Arteaga. Airfare, additional meals, and accommodations not included.
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
Alas, alas, you’ve been searching the world for the absolutely perfect spot for an intimate gathering for 80 of your best friends and/or clients and everything is so ho-hum, been-there and “I know all the serving staff by first name.”
Here is the answer to producing the “wish I’d been invited” supper. It’s the Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction. Be still my heart!
The venue will be at the yet-to-be-opened, luxury Hall Arts Hotel in the Dallas Arts District. And you just know that when it comes to the four-letter word — Hall — it’s gonna be a showplace of hospitality.
But, wait! There’s still so much more!
Soiree extraordinaire Todd Fiscus will provide the custom décor valued up to $10,000.
And then there’s the dine-about. The winning bidder is gonna have to decide between a four-course seated dinner or lavish graze-about heavy hors d’oeuvres with “action stations.” Don’t get your hopes up that “action stations” means that Marvel characters will be serving it up. Rather the array of yummies will be curated by the Hall Arts executive chef along with a premium hosted bar during the event. You just know that lobsters and crabs are shivering just thinking about the servings.
As for the host/hostess, they’ll spend the night in Hall Arts Hotel’s largest, extreme luxury suite. That is, unless they already have a nearby penthouse in the Dallas Arts District and decide to loan the suite for the night to a very good friend.
When it comes to the party headcount, will it be a handful? A baker’s dozen? Heck, no! It will be an elegant 80.
Just think. This is the perfect thank-you party for corporate partners, an intimate gathering of debs and their folks or just a hearty-party for your BFFs.
If you lose in the bidding war at the Art Ball 2019 Form And Function, cross your manicured fingers that your make the cut for party invites.
Compliments of Hall Arts Hotel and Todd Events
Restrictions: Valid December 1, 2019 thru November, 30, 2020.
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
As the soggy bog formerly known as North Texas recovers from two torrential days of rain, the fundraisers didn’t let a little thing like flooded Love Field parking lots dampen their spirits. For instance, tonight Art Ball 2019 Form And Function Co-Chair Amanda Shufeldt in blue-and-white stripes was over at The Stoneleigh for the Cattle Baron’s Research Symposium. Gee, with the Dallas Museum of Art fundraiser just 48 hours away, don’t you think the CBB member could have gotten a pass from attending the symposium featuring Professor Melanie Cobb and Dr. Kenneth Westover?
But, no, she was not doing double duty supporting the American Cancer Society of North Texas team as well as promoting the DMA. In her hand was a tote labeled “Christian Dior” as in “Dior: From Paris to the World” that opens at the museum in May.
But on the QT, Amanda was also sharing news about the Saturday fundraiser at the DMA. Like, for instance,
Now that you’re in the know, contact your BFF at DMA to bid or to get a place at the table and check back with MSC on whether Amanda strolled away with an auction item.
For the true lover of travel, Africa just never gets old. Whether it is venturing into a new sanctuary or seeing the amazing wildlife in its natural habitat, there are always new discoveries. And perhaps the gem of African excursions is Kenya. The winning bidder of this remarkable Art Ball 2019 Form And Function live auction package will have a place of honor in his/her passport for this prize.
The trip for two starts with a three-night stay at Segera Retreat in Laikipia. This private 50,000-acre wildlife sanctuary is an award-winning eco-safari, as well as serving as a satellite of the Cape Town’s Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.
Then it is off to the luxury safari lodge Angama Mara overlooking Africa’s famed Maasai Mara, where elephant families, buffalo, giraffe and hippos roam freely protected from poachers. Situated on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, it has been described as lovely lodge floating between heaven and earth. During the three-night stay, there will be scheduled safaris into the Mara Triangle. To accommodate photographers wanting flawless, the safaris take place in open gameviewing vehicles.
To complete the trip, Tropic Air’s helicopter will provide a scenic trip hovering over the countryside to 17,058-foot high Mt. Kenya.
And, of course, to have the perfect look for this “non-roughing-it” occasion, the winner and friends will meet Kenya designer Anna Trzebinski at Grange Hall for a trunk show.
Compliments of Grange Hall, Anna Trzebinski, Jessica Nowitzki, Segera, Kenya, Angama Mara and Tropic Air
Restrictions: Airfare not included. Angama Mara does not include air transfers, park fees into the Maasai Mara, as well as any extras: massage, shopping, hot-air ballooning, community visits and gratuities. Please note long stay specials are not applicable to Angama Mara portion of package. Angama Mara is non-transferable nor exchangeable for cash. Dates of stay in Kenya are April 1 – May 31 or October 1 – December 20, 2019 or January 9 – March, 31 2020. For stay at Segera, the dates as listed are subject to availability, excluding spa treatments, reserve beverages (French Champagne), transfers and private charter flights to/from Segera, conservation fee of USD 175 per person per day.
* Graphic and photo provided by Dallas Museum of Art
For the spring season’s grand finale of black-tie fundraising and lively auctions, the American Heart Association of Dallas’ sold-out Côtes du Coeur is going to pop the cork this Saturday at the Omni Dallas Hotel.
Event Co-Chairs Laura and Eric Hutto have arranged to have the event start with a reception in the foyer letting the 1,100 guests check out the silent auction of wines ranging from a 2016 Vietti Roero Aneis (Value: $22) to the 2018 Slice of Gala Dinner package of 21 bottles (Value: $2,500) and other goodies like a “Mom’s Day Out” ($520).
BTW, if you love wine, you’re going to be blown away by the assortment, quantity and quality of wines up for bidding. After all, this fundraiser is “one of the largest charity wine auction in the country.” And even if wine isn’t to your liking, it’s the perfect time to get that hostess gift.
At 6:30 p.m. the Dallas Ballroom doors will open to an array of celebrity chef and winery stations just made for grazing and gazing at the other high-rollers.
Just past 8:30 p.m. the live auction will get underway with trips and one-of-a-kind packages like:
Once again it was the winner’s circle for the Triple Crown-winning Troutt family, with matriarch Lisa Troutt transforming Brook Hollow Golf Club into a grand Kentucky estate for the 2019 Sweetheart Ball on Saturday, April 6. Even longtime club members were amazed how the clubhouse had been reconfigured from stem to stern.
It can safely be said that no other North Texas gala has had a Triple Crown trophy, plus crystal flown in from California, 20 violinists and an orchestra and windows overlooking pastures with horses grazing. From the entry with the Sweetheart Ball in gold emblazoned against a wall of white orchids, roses and peonies, to the photos of past Triple Crown winners lining the walls of the cocktail reception, it just hinted of the breathtaking night to come.
Even the most worldly black-tie guests took it all in with cellphones recording the sights and sounds of the annual mega-fundraiser for UT Southwestern’s heart disease program.
While the post is in the final lap, check out more than 130 looks of the evening at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery. P.S. — Please be patients as the photos load. It’s a huge file.
While the British may boast of the Royal Ascot’s stiff-upper-lip finery and class, 2019 Sweetheart Ball Chairman Lisa Troutt transformed Brook Hollow Golf Club into an homage to the Sport of Kings benefiting the cardiology research and programs at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas on Saturday, April 6.
It made such perfect sense. Lisa’s husband, Kenny Troutt, owns Kentucky’s WinStar Farm and its 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify, as well as other thoroughbred horses that have won major races.
For Lisa, the Sweetheart Ball was an opportunity to showcase the elegant and beautiful world of horse racing, and to share her family’s pride in their accomplishments. Together with Kenny, their children (Grant Troutt, Savannah Troutt and Preston Troutt) and her parents (Martha and Gerald Copeland), Lisa made the evening a very personal one by selecting and overseeing the installation of artwork, trophies and other mementos from the Troutts’ various properties.
From the moment Ball guests left their own “horsepower” with the valet parkers, they were directed down a lattice walkway to a room created especially for the official photographs. In the center of a wall of white roses, peonies and orchids was a grand logo created for the night by Lisa and Belle Invito using the entwined “S” and “B,” topped with a racing horse in a crown. The crest would be used throughout the evening as a huge emblem on the dance floor and even in smaller forms on the wallpaper.
Following the official photograph, guests entered what had been the club’s Oak Room for the cocktail reception. It was now befitting the exalted status of the Troutts’ champion thoroughbred with the Triple Crown trophy itself on display, backed by a large portrait of Justify that had been painted by one of Kenny’s former employees at Exel Communications. The room also was graced by a sleek gold sculpture of the 13th Triple Crown winner, as well as individual portraits of Justify’s predecessors: Sir Barton (who won the Triple Crown in 1919), Omaha (1935), Count Fleet (1943), and so on.
Reflecting on his love of the sport, Kenny said he’d been interested in horse racing since growing up in Illinois. Once, he recalled, he even hitchhiked from Carbondale, Illinois, to Louisville for the Kentucky Derby. Winning the grand prize with Justify was “a lot of fun,” he said, adding with a smile, “The fun was in making money.”
Guests soon discovered that the windows overlooking the club’s golf course had been replaced with life-size scenes of horses grazing on rolling lush pastures that were bordered by white fences. Brook Hollow’s Charles Redin recalled how Lisa, upon seeing the pastoral scenes, immediately recognized them. It seems that only the Troutts’ horse breeding and racing farm near Versailles, Kentucky, and a couple of others, still sport white fences.
While a pianist played New Orleans-style jazz, guests greeted, and posed for photographs with, Lisa and Kenny in front of the gold sculpture of Justify. Two by two they stepped forward: Heather and Ray Washburne, JoAnne and Tony Roosevelt, Lynne and Roy Sheldon, Linda and Bill Custard, Lisa and Clay Cooley, Pat and Charles McEvoy, Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse, Janie and Cappy McGarr, Kelli and Jerry Ford, Lana and Barry Andrews, Tavia and Clark Hunt, Margo and Jim Keyes, Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones and Nancy and Jeremy Halbreich among them.
During the reception the talk was of recent jaunts — Claire and Dwight Emanuelson were just back from a business trip to Kapalua — and of growing families (Jacquelin Sewell and her husband William Atkinson were expecting a new arrival on July 4th). There was also talk of those who had to miss the Ball — Lee Ann and Alan White, for example, were at basketball’s Final Four in Minneapolis, where Alan’s beloved Texas Tech would beat Michigan State later that evening — and of the upcoming Dallas mayoral race. Lynn McBee said her bid for the office was “going good,” while mayoral hopeful Regina Montoya said her run had garnered more individual campaign contributions than any other.
On the fashion front: Lisa’s fellow University of North Texas alumnus Michael Faircloth had designed her white gown, as well as those of Lisa Cooley and Tracy Lange. Pat McEvoy was in Elle Saab. Savannah had waited just hours before to decide on her sherbet gown. Troutt brother Preston’s accessory du jour was a sling resulting from a basketball accident. Kenny, who was still recovering from back surgery, had been told that he had to wear a brace for six weeks. However, he could have one day free from the brace. Kenny picked the Sweetheart Ball. (And, despite doctor’s orders, he couldn’t resist hitting the dance floor later on when Lisa surprised him with a performance by a Temptations-style band.)
Meantime, UT Southwestern President Dr. Dan Podolsky was reflecting on the Sweetheart Ball’s importance to his institution. “It’s a huge engine for support of our cardiology research and clinical programs,” Dan said. Over the years, he added, the “one-of-a-kind” event has raised at least $37 million for UT Southwestern, “allowing us to recruit and retain [outstanding] cardiology researchers and clinicians.”
Just past 8 p.m., grass-covered doors surrounded by white flowers and greenery opened at the top of the Oak Room stairs, leading to a promenade that appeared to be a glorious bouquet of even more white flowers and greenery. Guests strolled through the hallway lined with a dozen alcoves, where violinists were playing in front of still more pasture scenes.
At the end of their serenaded walk, open-mouthed guests like Mary Catherine and Don Huffines — the smiling former state senator was capturing the scene on his cellphone — found themselves dazzled by the lengthy Chairman’s Table, which was glowing with gold and crystal stemware, gold and white dinnerware, and small crowns designating the guests’ places. Overhead, three chandeliers were suspended among a drapery of wisteria and more greenery. Against the wall, with its magnificent mirrors and Sweetheart Ball wallpaper, was a stunning, Baroque-period French buffet console from the Troutts’ Dallas residence.
Nothing was left unnoticed. To accommodate the beading on Lisa’s gown, for instance, the back of her chair had been covered.
Adjacent to the room with the Chairman’s Table, attendees discovered that the Ballroom had been rearranged with still more violinists, a dance floor in front of the bandstand — Jordan Kahn‘s Manhattan orchestra would be entertaining — and 19 tables set for dinner. Each boasted a gorgeous white floral centerpiece that was surrounded by the gold and crystal stemware and the gold and white dinnerware, as well as place cards set in the tiny crowns.
As Lisa and most guests at the head table took their seats, handlers were seen giving each other a certain look. It seems that a handful of head-table guests was still standing about, chatting. Quietly, one of the handlers approached the group and advised them that the first course — caviar — was about to be served. As soon as the last seat was finally taken, the violinists in the hallway left their platforms to serenade the head table with a stirring version of Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida,” and one of Dallas’ most prestigious fundraisers was under way in earnest.
Word has just arrived that The Dallas Opera’s 2019 First Sight/First Night Co-Chairs Kim and Greg Hext have landed big news for the First Sight Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Winspear Opera House. The fashions on the runway will be from the “acclaimed international design house” of Dolce&Gabbana.
According to Kim, “I am delighted that The Dallas Opera will be partnering in 2019 with the ultra-sophisticated Dolce&Gabbana brand to enable First Sight — which in a few short years has become a firmly established fashion institution — to expand the scope of its influence.”
What’s that? Didn’t know D&G had a local home? Well, you’re absolutely right. In fact, as of today, there is only one in Texas and that’s in Houston. But the Nancy Nasher crew at NorthPark is working to change all that.
Scheduled to open this fall, the luxury retailer will fit beautifully between Tiffany and David Yurman at NP.
Kim added, “I am profoundly grateful to Nancy Nasher and our presenting sponsor, NorthPark Center; and, of course, to Dolce&Gabbana for their enthusiastic support of The Dallas Opera’s First Sight and First Night celebrations. We’ll have other exciting partnership announcement to share this summer.”
Joining the Hexts in their fundraising effort are First Sight Fashion Show and Luncheon Chair Ellen Winspear, First Night Dinner Co-Chairs Carol and Don Glendenning and 2019 First Sight/First Night Honorary Co-Chairs The Winspear Family in honor of the Winspear Opera House’s tenth anniversary.
Early sales are underway here for First Sight on Thursday, October 17, and First Night on Friday, October 18.
