Hearty Partying at Pop-up

1,000 shoppers get in the spirit at Holiday Pop-up Shop with Botox, bubbly and so much to buy

Whether it was the rockin' holiday tunes spun by DJ Narcissus or the classical Christmas music of Virtuosi of Houston, sounds of the season inspired festive spirits at CultureMap's second annual Holiday Pop-up Shop.

Close to 1,000 shopping revelers turned out at Silver Street Studios for the Sunday event that featured more than 30 vendors — ranging from WildBloom to Texas Beer Bus, from Dripped Nails to Paris Texas Apparel.

On this cold and rainy day, the hot chocolate, compliments of Bounce Energy, and the mimosas and bourbon mixtures served in the Lexus Lounge kept hearts and toes warm while steaming coffee from PUCS coffee truck and hot dogs from Good Dog Houston food truck added to the cosseting appeal.

Indeed there was something for everyone, with kiddos and adults alike tapping into their creative groove in the craft station while those wishing for a beauty touch-up found Botox and skin treatments available in the NuMe van parked inside the warehouse space. Hungry shoppers could satisfy their appetites with Revival Market's pop-up bistro of goodies from Common Bond.

While visitors filled their shopping bags, the trunk of one of the three Lexus cars on display slowly filled with new toys in the toy drive for PledgeCents.

Checking out the lively scene were Holly Alvis, Katherine Hamilton, Anna and Scott Goodman, Heather and Paul Currie, Tiffany Halik, Terry Leal, Ashley Srouji, Andrea Montgomery, Makenzie Rogers, Mary Clarkson, Katie Scroggins, Katie Corts and Westleigh Cutts.

Catch the action at the CultureMap Holiday Pop-up Shop in this video:

Holly Alvis, Katherine Hamilton.

Photo by Kirsten Gilliam

Holly Alvis, Katherine Hamilton.

holidays

High Notes

Houston Classical dinner raises $1.85M for young scholars

Houston Classical Charter School Dinner 2025

Photo by Priscilla Dickson

Jackie Furlow, Sarah Barrett, Tiffany Dunning, and Veronica Griffin.

The Corinthian Houston set the scene for an evening of elegance as chairs Sarah and Scott Barrett welcomed 280 guests to the Third Annual Foundational Dinner benefiting Houston Classical Charter School on April 3. The stately venue, draped in navy and gold accents, echoed the school’s commitment to tradition and excellence.

One of the most moving moments of the evening came not from the stage’s spotlight, but from a poised young scholar named Olanike. With confidence beyond her years, she shared how Houston Classical has become a launchpad for her dreams.

“My favorite subjects are novel study, humanities, and math — which I never imagined I’d love,” she said. “With the support of my teachers and my determination to improve, I know I will continue to grow.”

The night’s emotional core was balanced by spirited fun, thanks to local favorite Johnny Bravo, who helmed the live auction with flair. Bidding wars erupted over luxe travel getaways — from Big Sky, Montana to Argentina — and unique experiences like a private dinner by a chef from Eunice and a chamber performance by Houston Symphony members.

With a full house and full hearts, the sold-out event raised $1,850,000, the most in the school’s short but impressive history.

Seen on the scene were Jordan and Dylan Seff, Vanessa and Chuck Ames, Sarah and Scott Barrett, Julia and John Stallcup, Veronica and John Griffin, Meredith and Jean Marc Monrad, Robert Johnson and Ariella Perlman, and Houston City Council Member Julian Ramirez.

Photo by Priscilla Dickson

Jackie Furlow, Sarah Barrett, Tiffany Dunning, and Veronica Griffin.

fundraisers houston classical charter school