Rob Giardinelli
Gala Celebrates 100 Years Of Elevating Houston’s Female Leaders
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Jacob Power and Priscilla Dickson
Alex Willis
THE SCENE: Throughout a jam-packed weekend of fun, the Junior League of Houston held an array of activities celebrating its 100th anniversary on the grounds of the organization’s grounds. The weekend was capped off with an epic Centennial Ball. The weekend’s theme, Inspiring Icons, showcased the many female leaders of the Houston community who have been a part of one of Houston’s most storied, and yes, iconic, philanthropic organizations over the past century. The result was a fabulous celebration for those fortunate enough to be a part of the sold-out 500-person ball.
& Jimmy Dolezal
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd brought a celebratory vibe, with patrons donning their finest evening wear, and many opted for bold colors and bright prints, which created a welcoming vibe for all who attended. Guests could feel the warmth in the air from the second patrons arrived as they were treated to a display featuring highlights of iconic Junior League of Houston moments and milestones over the past 100 years. Revelers then took part in a lively cocktail hour where they cozied up to the bar to get their favorite spirit. They mingled, catching up with old friends and making new ones in the process. During the cocktail hour, guests could also be seen perusing an impressive lot of silent auction items. Additionally, partygoers also had the opportunity to participate in a wine and liquor pull, where they had the chance to win sought-after and rare spirits.
The action returned to the Junior League of Houston ballroom for the main program. Courtney Zavala served as emcee for the night’s festivities, keeping the festivities flowing at a fun, brisk pace throughout the night. While guests dined on delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event leaders and touching testimonials and tributes highlighting how much the Junior League of Houston has shaped generations of female community leaders who have impacted their community and beyond. Next came the Paddles Up, where patrons raised their paddles to elevate the fundraising total.
The night was capped off with an after-party presented by Camp Aspen, where several hundred additional guests joined the gala attendees for the late-night celebration. During the after party, revelers could be seen playing casino games, enjoying some delectable light bites, and dancing the night away courtesy of popular Houston-based band Radio Live, which put an exclamation point on an iconic evening that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE NON-PROFIT: The Junior League of Houston Centennial Ball: Inspiring Icons, chaired by Dionella Martinez, raised over $700,000 for the Junior League of Houston. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards Junior League of Houston programs to support the organization’s nonprofit mission of giving back as well as mentorship, development, and civic services opportunities for female leaders.
