Chic Luncheon Spotlighting Valentine’s Day Is Filled With Love
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Buster Jetter
THE SCENE: The JW Marriott in Austin was the recent setting for an afternoon of regal fun, fabulous fashion, and great company that made for a dazzling afternoon at the 14th Annual Red Haute Valentine’s Party and Children’s Style Show. Hosted by the Women’s Symphony League of Austin, the afternoon and its theme, Two of Hearts: Tea for Two, brought out several hundred of the city’s most notable community leaders and sociables for the event.

Courtney Edwards and Amanda Dugan

Ben Powell and Jill Powell
THE VIBE: The British-chic crowd featured patrons donning their favorite high tea attire, which highlighted the afternoon’s theme. Bright colors, with many donning red to honor Valentine’s Day, seamlessly mixed with floral prints, white and crème colors, and festive fascinators, creating a warm, welcoming environment for all who attended.

Natalie Hudson

Allison Edwards

The afternoon started with a champagne reception where guests were able to mingle and enjoy each other’s company in the foyer outside of the JW Marriott Ballroom. During the live auction, patrons also had a chance to peruse the various pop-up boutiques to purchase luxury goods from notable brands such as Fraulein Boots and Kendra Scott.


Sinem Szygenda and Celeste Hubert
The action moved to the JW Marriott Ballroom for the main program. As guests dined on their elegant afternoon tea, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders. Next came a “hugs and kisses” name that saw many parents hugging their children and each other, with lucky winners receiving various prizes. The afternoon was capped off with a heart-warming, multi-generational fashion show where parents and their children strutted the runway in fashions provided by Dillard’s, Fragile Eccentrics, House of Shan, and MOMograms Collective that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.



Courtney Graeber
THE NON-PROFIT: The 14th Annual Red Haute Valentine’s Party and Children’s Style Show, co-chaired by sisters Allison Edwards and Courtney Edwards, raised funds for the Women’s Symphony League of Austin. Proceeds raised from the afternoon will go towards programs and children’s educational opportunities at the Austin Symphony Orchestra.