Rob Giardinelli
Who’s Who Wows Chic Black Tie Crowd
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Riccardo S. Savi / Getty Images and Nick Tininenko / Getty Images
The St. Regis Aspen Resort
THE SCENE: The St. Regis in Aspen was the setting for a night that capped off one of the most vibrant, fun weeks of the winter season. A sold-out crowd, with plenty of philanthropic Texans, featured several hundred of the nation’s most prominent medical leaders and sociables who turned out for the 3rd Annual Aspen Snow Ball.
Benefiting the Children’s Oncology Support Fund, featured the theme “Oh The Places You’ll Go” and the star-studded night did go…creating a dazzling night of incredible fun, show-stopping performances, and eye-popping fundraising that led to this year’s Aspen Snow Ball being the most successful to date.
THE VIBE: The “Black-Tie Fantasy” attired crowd featured well-heeled patrons who donned an elegant mix of traditional black tie and ensembles featuring richly vibrant colors. What one saw as they looked around the room was a beautiful kaleidoscope of colors on the guests that created a warm, welcoming environment for everyone who attended.
Things started off with patrons donning the black carpet to pose for images on the step and repeat to commemorate the evening. From there, partygoers headed to the St. Regis Ballroom Foyer for a lively cocktail hour where partygoers mingled in anticipation of the star-studded night of performances that lie ahead. Revelers then gathered in the St. Regis ballroom for the main program. Legendary comic and Tonight Show host emeritus Jay Leno served as emcee keeping the festivities flowing at a fun, lively, and humorous pace as diners enjoyed their meals. During the program, guests were treated to words from event and organization leaders thanking them for being a part of the festivities as well as highlighting the work the Children’s Oncology Support Fund does to support children with cancer.
Next, came the presentation of two awards. One to fashion and cultural icon Christie Brinkley was honored with the Philanthropic Impact Achievement Award for her support of the organization, and another in the memory of Rollie Jordan, who was honored with the Community Leadership Award.
McKinley Guidry
The night was capped off with an epic performance by pop-superstar Zara Larsson and a surprise performance by recording artist Parson James. The crowd was brought to their feet singing along with the artists and putting a giant exclamation point on an amazing night.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 3rd Annual Aspen Snow Ball, co-chaired by Thomas Pierce, Carly and Scott Weber, Carla Marcesa Eichler, Jilianne Keil, Michael Orcutt, and Ashley Wyndham with Christie Brinkley, Brooke Burke, and Rachel Zoe serving as honorary chairs, raised over $3.5 million for the Children’s Oncology Support Fund. Proceeds raised from the event will help fund development, research, and programs for less toxic therapies for pediatric cancer patients.
