Rob Giardinelli
Austin’s Philanthropic Crowd Brings Texas Glam And Big-Time Generosity To Troublemaker Studios To Raise Funds For Dell Children’s NICU Programs
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Matt Hooker Of Intrinsic Moment Pictures
THE SCENE: Troublemaker Studios in Austin was the recent setting for one of the capital city’s most successful and anticipated Spring fundraising events. An electric crowd featuring over 800 of the area’s most notable community leaders, medical and children’s advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for 2026 Boots & Bling. Benefiting the Elizabeth Ann Seton Board, the night served up Texas-style Hollywood glam, resulting in a seven-figure fundraising haul for the organization.
THE VIBE: The Country-chic crowd had patrons donning their favorite western attire with a hint of glam. In the crowd, one could spot plenty of denim, boots, fringe, sport coats, dresses, and plenty of sequins to boot – pun intended. The result was a warm, festive environment where everyone felt like part of the family.
The festivities kicked off on the backlot of Troublemaker Studios for a lively cocktail hour. Many could be seen taking photos on the red carpet to commemorate the evening, while others took the opportunity to pose in front of the set-piece buildings erected on the studio lot. During the cocktail hour, revelers mingled, bid on silent auction items, and previewed the impressive lot of live auction items to be auctioned later in the evening.
Guests then grabbed their favorite items from a delectable buffet courtesy of Contigo Catering before taking to their seats for dinner and the main program. As partygoers enjoyed their meals, they were treated to words from organization and event leaders thanking them for their support of their mission.
Next, Carrie Fruge of Biddy Up Auctioneer took to the stage to lead a spirited live auction and fund a need. Revelers feverishly placed bids on an array of luxury items and experiences, with a Punta Mita Luxury Vacation, a Round Top Girls Trip, and a once-in-a-lifetime dinner with University of Texas Mascot Bevo being among the most popular of the night. A paddles-up followed, driving the fundraising totals even higher.
On a high from the successful program and live auction, the crowd then celebrated at one of Austin’s most lively annual after-party events. Guests took to the dance floor to the tunes of DJ Cassandra, capping off an impressive night of fun and fundraising for one of Austin’s most beloved organizations.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2026 Boots & Bling was led by co-chairs Kristin McShane and Stephanie Page alongside EASB President Callie Hester. The event raised an impressive $1.2 million for The Marialice Shivers and Dell Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Kathryn Frances Walker Center for Neonatal Intensive Care & Family Support at Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding Ascension Seton’s mother-baby service programs, which serve over 7,500 families each year.
Here Are The Reasons EASB Triumphed With Its Gala…
- More than 800 Austin community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates gathered at Troublemaker Studios for the 2026 Boots & Bling gala
- The country-chic crowd embraced Texas glamour with denim, fringe, sequins, boots, and western-inspired formalwear
- Guests posed on the red carpet and explored Hollywood-style backlot set pieces during the lively cocktail hour
- Silent and live auction previews added excitement as attendees mingled throughout the iconic studio venue
- Contigo Catering served a crowd-pleasing buffet dinner before the evening’s main fundraising program began
- Event and organization leaders highlighted the life-changing impact of Ascension Seton’s mother and baby programs across Central Texas
- Auctioneer Carrie Fruge of Biddy Up Auctioneer energized the room during a spirited live auction and fund-a-need appeal
- Coveted auction packages included a Punta Mita luxury getaway, a Round Top girls trip, and an unforgettable dinner with Bevo
- Guests enthusiastically raised paddles in support of neonatal intensive care and family support services
- DJ Cassandra kept the dance floor packed during one of Austin’s most anticipated gala after-parties
- Co-chaired by Kristin McShane and Stephanie Page alongside EASB President Callie Hester, the event raised an impressive $1.2 million
- Proceeds will benefit the Marialice Shivers and Dell Children’s NICU at Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin, supporting more than 7,500 families annually
