Rob Giardinelli
Whimsy Met Philanthropy For An Enchanted Evening In Aspen That Blended Storybook Wonder, Glamour, And Generous Hearts To Help Transform The Future Of Pediatric Cancer Care
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Getty Images, Nina Fernandez/Bfa.com, and Pierrick Rocher/Bfa.com. Courtesy Of Children’s Oncology Support Fund
THE SCENE: The St. Regis Aspen Resort was the setting for a remarkable night of fun and fundraising, which was pure magic. A sold-out crowd featuring a mix of several hundred medical advocates, celebrities, sociables, and philanthropists from around the country turned out for the 4th Annual Aspen Snow Ball. Benefiting the Children’s Oncology Support Fund, the star-studded night featured a “Pure Imagination” theme that brought out the inner kid in everyone who attended.
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured a stunning mix of formal ensembles. In the crowd, one could spot classic formal attire that seamlessly blended in with ensembles of bold colors, prints, metallics, sequins, and velvet. The result was a happy, festive environment where everyone felt welcome to imagine the possibilities of the epic evening ahead.
Kicking off the night was a dazzling purple carpet where celebrities, philanthropists, and guests took their turn striking a pose in front of the cameras to commemorate the evening. Partygoers then headed to the St. Regis ballroom foyer for a lively cocktail hour, where, after grabbing their favorite spirit of choice, they caught up with old friends and made new ones.
The action then headed towards their seats for dinner and the main program. Upon entering the room, many guests’ jaws dropped in awe at the stunning transformation of the St. Regis ballroom into a regal playscape for adults. The room was adorned with purple lighting, which complemented the rich purple tablecloths, which were beautifully complemented by votives and elegant bouquets of pink and purple flowers.
Comedian Chelsea Handler served as emcee, keeping the crowd engaged, relaxed, and in high spirits throughout the night. As attendees dined on their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders thanking them for taking part in such a special evening.
Next came a series of touching tributes, performances, and awards that highlighted the impact and important work of the Children’s Oncology Support Fund. This included a performance of a scene from the iconic 1971 Film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory that brought a sense of whimsical, childlike nostalgia to the room. During the program, Goldie Hawn was awarded the Philanthropic Achievement Award for her work and support of mental health initiatives within the Mind Up Goldie Hawn Foundation. Stella Roy was awarded the Humanitarian of Light Award for her continued support of the organization, and Ethan Curtis received the Youth Ambassador Award, highlighting that it is never too early to give back.
A spirited live auction helmed by Jamie McDonald followed. Paddles went up at a fever pitch as patrons bid on an array of luxury items and once-in-a-lifetime experiential packages. Rounding out the night was a series of showstopping musical performances, first by Rumer Willis, second by headline performer Wilson Phillips, and lastly a late-night Mojave Grey that kept the fun going into the wee hours of the morning.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 4th Annual Aspen Snow Ball raised a record-breaking $4 million for the Children’s Oncology Support Fund. Proceeds from the event will support breakthroughs in pediatric cancer research through strategic partnerships with leading hospitals and established nonprofits, maximizing impact for children battling cancer and their families.
