Rob GiardinelliReuNight For The Family Place Dazzles Guests At The New Hôtel Swexan
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass
THE SCENE: Hôtel Swexan in Dallas was the setting for one of the city’s most fun spring events. Over 200 community leaders, advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 11th annual ReuNight for The Family Place. The night featured a mix of great company, touching tributes, and stunning décor that benefitted one of the state’s most esteemed nonprofit organizations.
THE VIBE: The cocktail attire crowd featured a mix of classic suits and ballgowns with sequins and bold prints that created a festive, welcoming environment for guests. The 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 that was both energizing and soothing to the eye at the same time. As partygoers dined on their first course of a menu curated by Executive Chef James Ash, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders about the important work The Family Place does to positively impact the North Texas community.
Guests then dined on their main courses as the Hunter Sullivan Band music played in the background keeping the energy up and the conversations flowing. Next, a paddles-up led by ReuNight emcee and auctioneer Matt Godbehre drove the fundraising up courtesy of a $100,000 match by an anonymous donor. The night was capped off with an Afterglow after party at Hôtel Swexan’s speakeasy Babou’s where the revelry continued well into the night.
THE NON-PROFIT: The event, co-chaired by Annie and Erik Miller and James and Kristin Hallam raised funds for The Family Place. The 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.
