Curated Texan
The Young Professionals Group Hosts 8th Annual Storybook Gala
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Daniel Ortiz
Anthony Tarantino and Gaby Aparicio
THE SCENE: Union Station at Minute Maid Park in Houston was the recent setting for an evening of fun and fundraising hosted by the next generation of Space City’s philanthropic leaders. Over 300 of the city’s most notable sociables of all ages turned out for the 8th annual Storybook Gala. Hosted by the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s Young Professionals Group (YPG), the night featured a fabulous venue, food, music, and fun that those who were fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
Alex and Jamie Burpee
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd created a worldly, cosmopolitan flare that perfectly captured the evening’s theme: Around the World with Madeleine based on the popular children’s book series. The festivities began with a cocktail reception where guests mingled while perusing an impressive array of silent auction items.
To commemorate the evening, guests had the opportunity to pose for photos with Houston Astros mascot Orbit as well as posing for images in front of a specially installed, 14-foot Eiffel Tower that dazzled partygoers upon entering the venue. Throughout the space, one could find places that Madeleine has traveled over the 17-book series including Paris for an added element of sophisticated ambiance that created a welcoming environment for all.
Patrons then headed to their seats for the evening’s main program. As guests dined on a delectable array of items from an impressive buffet, emcee Matt Rogers effortlessly kept the evening moving at a fun, brisk pace. The program highlighted words from event and organization leaders, a spirited live auction, and a raffle with one lucky winner receiving a Tenenbaum Collection 18K White Gold Diamond Line Bracelet donated by Tenenbaum Jewelers.
The program was capped off by honoring The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo with the Childhood Literacy Impact Award for their tireless support in empowering underserved children in the Houston area. After the program concluded, revelers stayed well into the night, dancing the night away to the tunes of The Drywater Band.
THE NON-PROFIT: The event, co-chaired by Grace and Tom Gosnell, Courtney and Zach Harom, and Victoria Villarreal raised over $225,000 for Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation programs led by the YPG. The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s YPG’s mission is to engage young professionals to create opportunities for members of the next generation to read, lead, and serve.
