Rob Giardinelli
Revered Organization Celebrates 76th Anniversary
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Jacob Power Photography
THE SCENE: The Junior League of Houston was the recent setting of three nights of fun and fundraising that enchanted its guests and raised funds for a very worthy cause. Throughout three nights, the 76th annual Charity Ball, which has never once duplicated a theme in its storied history, drew over 500 of Space City’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists during the trio of successful events that left its guests wanting more.
THE VIBE: The three nights featured an Enchanted: Once Upon a Time theme which seamlessly carried through the three evenings and created a magical, welcoming environment for all who attended. The black-tie events commenced with an Into the Woods kickoff party on the first night that drew over 250 guests who brimmed with anticipation of the enchanted environment that awaited them on the second and third nights. During the kickoff event, guests sipped on enchanted-themed cocktails, perused the silent auction for great finds, a dueling piano session by Piano Punch and was capped off with music by DJ Mohawk Steve.
The second night featured several hundred in a beautifully constructed tent on the Junior League grounds that transported guests to their favorite fairy tale. The emcee, ABC 13’s Briana Conner, effortlessly kept the evening flowing at a fun, brisk pace. Revelers dined on a multi-course meal, enjoyed a silent auction with the top items being a three-course meal for 10 at Trez Bistro, vacations to Breckenridge and Belize, and concluded the evening with a paddle raise. The evening was capped off with dancing by the band, Radio Live.
The fun culminated with a sold-out third night that brought out all the stops. Journalist Brandi Smith served as the evening’s emcee. Highlights from the spectacular third evening of festivities included dinner and a spirited live auction which included an interior design package from Emily June Designs, a five course-wine pairing dinner at Annabelle Brasserie, and a his and hers couture package courtesy of Becky Hollands Atelier and Norton Ditto. The three nights were capped off with a live musical performance by Satellite where partygoers danced the night away reflecting on three amazing nights of fun and fundraising those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE NON-PROFIT:The 76th Annual Charity Ball, chaired by Ashley Seals, with Amanda Hanks Bayles serving as president, raised over $800,000 for the Junior League of Houston. Proceeds raised from the event will empower women to support its work to address the biggest issues in the Houston community. The organization currently supports 32 community projects throughout the city along with providing community grants and outside board representation programs.
