Memorial Hermann Foundation’s Million Dollar “Razzle Dazzle” Pink Luncheon In Houston Triumphs

Afternoon Event Features Conversation With Media Personality Hoda Kotb

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography By Priscilla Dickson and Daniel Ortiz

THE SCENE: The Post Oak Hotel in Houston was the setting for one of Texas’s most anticipated and successful annual luncheons. Several hundred of Space City’s most notable community leaders, medical advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 16^th annual Razzle Dazzle Luncheon. Benefiting the Memorial Hermann Foundation, the afternoon featured great food, company, and conversation courtesy of former TODAY show host Hoda Kotb.

THE VIBE: The luncheon-chic crowd literally embraced the “Embrace” themed event with patrons donning various cocktail-attire outfits in an array of colors, with pink being the prominent color. Patrons wore the color in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Additionally, in the crowd, one could spot patrons donning various other colors of the rainbow, including blues, grays, and reds. The result was a festive, warm, and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.

The festivities began with a VIP meet and greet with Hoda Kotb, after which patrons headed to The Post Oak Ballroom Foyer for a welcome reception. Here, guests sipped on champagne while mingling and brimming with anticipation of the fun afternoon that lay ahead. Others could be seen purchasing raffle tickets for many luxury items, including pieces courtesy of Tenenbaum Jewelers.

Revelers then poured into The Post Oak Ballroom for the main program. More than a few gasps were heard as patrons entered the beautiful space where Blooming Gallery provided stunning décor that was brilliantly complemented by fabulous florals courtesy of HEB.

Once guests took to their seats, they began dining on their delectable meals. KTRK’s Samica Knight served as emcee, keeping the afternoon’s festivities flowing at a brisk yet fun pace. During the program, guests were treated to words from organization and event leaders thanking them for being a part of such a memorable afternoon.

The afternoon was capped off with a conversation with Hoda Kotb. Moderated by Stephanie Tsuru, Kotb, a breast cancer survivor herself, the audience was entertained with her trademark warm and witty banter. During the chat, she discussed her latest chapter after departing the TODAY show, including her new podcast, book, and wellness app. She also opened up about the hardship of breast cancer and navigating challenging times. She offered the audience a key phrase that many took away with them after a beautiful afternoon: “You are stronger in the broken places.”

THE NON-PROFIT: The 16^th annual Razzle Dazzle Luncheon, chaired by Zhanna Golodryga, raised over $1 million for the Memorial Hermann Foundation. Proceeds raised from the event will support breast cancer outreach, early detection, and quality care initiatives at Memorial Hermann, including the Bobetta C. Lindig Breast Care Center at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center. Proceeds from this year’s event will allow 1,000 potentially life-saving mammograms for women who may otherwise be unable to obtain this vital healthcare service.