As of noon Friday, philanthropist Laura Arnold and dermatologist to the stars Jennifer Segal became the envy of benefit chairs across the city. As leaders of the premiere Bayou Bend Fashion Show and Luncheon, they commanded a trés stylish gathering and unprecedented proceeds of $445,000.
Applause, applause for the ladies and for Museum of Fine Arts, Houston director Gary Tinterow, who divined the instantly successful fundraiser.
There could not be a more beautiful setting for a ladies luncheon than on the lush grounds of Bayou Bend, beneath a vast party tent erected for three days of fundraising events including Sunday night's annual Bayou Bend Garden party. To the south of the tent is the pink beauty, the historic home of late philanthropist Ima Hogg, and to the north is the reflection pool and Diana Fountain.
With The Galleria as presenting sponsor and the high-style retailer The Webster presenting the runway fashions, the event enjoyed a head start on glamorous success. Representing The Galleria was Jenny Harris, marketing veep for Simon’s Southwest Region, and representing The Webster was COO Cedric Aumonier in from New York.
Deep-pocketed contributors to luncheon's success included Shahla Ansary, Franci Neely, Kelli Kickerillo, Jeanie Kilroy, the Crane Family Foundation and Martha Long.
Adding to the overflowing coffers were guests including Cynthia Petrello, Whitney Wheeler, Nancy Abendshein, Diane Lokey Farb, Nidhika Mehta, Katie Brass, Susie Glasscock, Courtney Sarofim, Lilly Cullen, Nancy Kinder, Sima Ladjevardian, Eileen Lawal, Laurie Morian, and Karol Barnhart.
Christie McCartney, Courtney Toomey, Emily Adams, Carmen Mach.
