Rob Giardinelli
The Stage Was Set With A Western Theme At The Fairmount Hotel
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Lucero Valle Of Lucero Creative
THE SCENE: Downtown Austin’s Fairmont Hotel was the setting for an event that showcased the love and heart of the capital city community. Approximately 225 of the area’s top medical professionals, community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Share The Love Gala. Benefiting Manos de Cristo, the night featured touching tributes and community, resulting in another successful event for the organization.
THE VIBE: The crowd embraced the “Black-tie Boots & Bling” theme. In the crowd, one could spot people sporting traditional black-tie mixed in with others who donned sequins, cowboy hats, Texas ties, boots, and bandanas. The result was a warm, welcoming environment for everyone who attended.
The festivities began in the Fairmont Ballroom Foyer for a lively cocktail hour. After guests cozied up to the bar to grab their favorite spirit, they mingled amongst the vibrant crowd. During the cocktail hour, guests commemorated the evening by posing for images in the 360-degree photo booth and perusing an impressive number of silent auction items.
The action then moved to the Fairmont Ballroom for the main program. Each table was adorned with elegant white flowers, creating an intimate, sophisticated vibe. Emmy Award-winning KXAN anchor Sally Hernandez served as emcee, engaging the crowd and keeping the festivities moving at a fun, brisk pace throughout the night.
While partygoers dined on multi-course meals, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders. This included a tribute video showcasing the many long-term employees of Manos de Cristo, highlighting the deep, trusted ties the organization has in the Austin community.
Next, Seth Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer helmed a spirited live auction and fund-a-need. Paddles went up as revelers bid on an array of luxury experiences with a trip to the Amalfi Coast in Italy, a Tulum getaway, and a weekend in Cinnamon Shore emerging as the most popular items of the night.
The evening concluded with an after-party. Revelers could be seen cutting a rug on the dance floor to the tunes of Groove Knight while others could be spotted at the casino tables, capping off a beautiful night that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2025 Share The Love Gala, presented by Nicole and Ramzi Al-Rashid, raised over $300,000 for Manos de Cristo. Proceeds from the event will go toward providing life-changing services to over 30,000 children, adults, and seniors in Central Texas each year. These services include dental services, adult education classes, and emergency food and clothing programs.
