Rob Giardinelli
“Côtes du Coeur” Event Delivers A Delightfully Delectable Night
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by: See Pink, Inc. and Cash Anglin Photography
THE SCENE: The Omni Dallas Hotel was the setting for one of the state’s most exciting nights of the year, which combines food, wine, and philanthropy. A sold-out crowd of over 850 of North Texas’ most prominent medical leaders, wine lovers, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 34th annual “Côtes du Coeur.” Benefiting the American Heart Association, the night featured amazing food, fabulous wines, and an incredible fundraising haul for one of the country’s most beloved philanthropic organizations.
Whitney Laughlin & Doreen and Eric Griffith
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured an elegant mix of traditional black-tie ensembles that, like a great food and wine combination, paired perfectly with others who donned bold colors, including bright red ensembles that reflected the organization’s colors. The result was a warm, welcoming environment that reflected the giant heart of the American Heart Association, both figuratively and literally.
The night began with an elegant cocktail hour in the Omni Dallas Hotel Ballroom Foyer. Guests had the chance to enjoy their favorite cocktail or glass of wine while mingling with other guests who eagerly anticipated the delectable culinary and libation delights that awaited them.
The action moved to the Omni Dallas Hotel Ballroom for the main program. Fox 4 DFW’s Peyton Yager served as emcee, driving the night at a fun, brisk pace. After guests took their seats, the main program began. Attendees were treated to words from the organization and event leaders thanking them for participating in such a memorable evening. Additionally, several key volunteers critical to the success of the American Heart Association in North Texas were honored for their support and lasting impact on the organization including Dr. Donald Wesson, Dr. Amit Khera, Meredith O’Neal, Scott Guillet, Mark Valentine, Jennifer Sanders, Jessica Bourne, Zee Hussain, Rick Allen, and Micah Kisner.
bidding at the 2025 gala
The most emotional part of the program was the story of Heather Rose. Rose, a 36-year-old congenital heart disease survivor, who endured several open heart surgeries before receiving a heart transplant in her mid-30s, which was due in large part to the advances in medicine and research made possible in part due to events like Côtes du Coeur.
During the program, partygoers were treated to a curated five-course meal, with each course pairing beautifully with an array of delicious wines from top vineyards. The menu was curated by Chef Richard Chamberlain of Chamberlain’s Steak and Fish, Chef Brendan Davy of Ellie’s at HALL Arts Hotel, Chef Mario Hernandez of Nuri Steakhouse, Chef Dan Landsberg of Circle T Ranch, Chef Janice Provost of Parigi, Chef Kent Rathbun of Rathbun’s Curbside BBQ, Chef Jason Rohan of Monarch, Chef John Tesar of Knife, and Chef Gerard Thompson of Rough Creek Lodge.
Next came a spirited live auction. The paddles and fundraising went up as revelers bid on an array of luxury items and experiences. The most popular auction items included a private dinner in a world-class wine cellar with rare vintage wines and a stay at Hôtel Swexan, as well as a luxury winter getaway to Park City with 300,000 American Airlines miles to get the lucky recipients there.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 34th annual Côtes de Coeur, chaired by Jennifer and Chris Clark, raised seven figures for the American Heart Association. The largest single-night fundraising gala in the United States for the eponymous organization, proceeds raised from the event will go towards funding investments and programs that fulfill the organization’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Since the event’s founding, Côtes de Coeur has raised nearly $50 million for the American Heart Association mission investments.
The 35th annual Côtes du Coeur will be held on April 26, 2026. For more information, click here.
