Rob Giardinelli
The Evening Was Filled With Plenty Of Elevated Western Chic Attire And Performances By Calder Allen & The Ray Johnston Band
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Kolton King
THE SCENE: Round Top’s Windy Knoll Barn was the setting for a night that served as a kickoff for the city’s newest hottest ticket in town. Approximately 250 of Texas’s most notable film lovers, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Second Annual Round Top Film Festival Gala. The event kicks off the upcoming Round Top Film Festival, which takes place from November 6 to 9, and is quickly growing in size and stature for those who love Texas and film.
THE VIBE: The Round Top-chic crowd featured guests wearing their favorite western attire. In the crowd, one could spot rhinestones, fringe, cowboy hats, and boots that seamlessly blended with cocktail dresses and jeans, and sport coats to create a festive, family-like feel from the second guests arrived at the venue, the Windy Knoll Barn.
The night began on the red carpet, adorned with a beautiful, nature-inspired backdrop of white, orange, and peach flowers, where patrons took a moment to snap images against the beautiful, warm sunset. The action then moved inside for a lively cocktail hour, where partygoers took their seats for the main program in the majestic, soaring barn, brimming with anticipation for the fun that lay ahead. Jennifer Stevens of JHL Company transformed the barn into a rustic, elegant space with stunning décor and flower bouquets featuring white, pink, green, and peach tones that perfectly complemented the natural- colored tablecloths and linens, which felt both fresh and elevated.
While patrons dined on their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words from leaders of the organization, event, and Texas film industry. Each thanked guests for their patronage and explained how the Round Top Film Festival aims to elevate the Texas film scene both within the state and beyond.
Next, Carrie Frugé of Biddy Up Auctioneer led a spirited live auction that raised over $300,000. Top items included an experiential visit to Cibolo Creek Ranch, a stay at the Four Seasons at Los Cabos at Costa Palmas™, and a Ganam Safari to Tanzania. The auction concluded with a twist when donors bidding in a specific category were entered into a raffle, with the lucky winner receiving a diamond tennis bracelet courtesy of Zadok Jewelers.
After the auction concluded, the festivities continued with an after-party featuring live music. Revelers were brought to their feet as they danced the night away to tunes by Calder Allen as well as the Ray Johnston Band. This capped off an event that has quickly solidified itself as a must-attend event in the Texas social season as the social season begins.
THE NON-PROFIT: The Second Annual Round Top Film Festival Gala, hosted by co-founders Shanna Schanen and Skylar Schanen, raised funds for the Round Top Film Festival. In its second year, the festival showcases films and productions that highlight the best films from around the world, creating opportunities for dialogue that appreciate and celebrate the diverse voices of cinema, movies, and film.
