Shelby's Social Diary

This Woman's Hospital shopping fest gives new meaning to Labor Day for March ofDimes

Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma
Photo by David Postma

When you have a good thing going, why change it? That could be the philosophy behind The Woman's Hospital of Texas' ninth annual Labor Day Luncheon, the double entendre fully intended for this March of Dimes fundraiser held each year within shouting distance of the fall holiday.

The popular afternoon event at the Royal Sonesta Hotel Houston kicked off with a Boutique Bazaar featuring two-dozen pop-up shops representing local fashion hives such as BB1 Classic, Trés Chic and French Cuff. Mingling through the shopping throng were luncheon chairs Linda Russell, The Woman's Hospital CEO, and Rishma Mohamed, March of Dimes Guild president.

While guests then settled in for a French-inspired lunch, personal stylist Cathy Fitzpatrick Cleary shared wardrobe tips and Todd Ramos presented a Parisian-chic runway show of the latest fashions.

Beyond the fashion frolic, the luncheon had its serious side as emcee KPRC Channel 2 news anchor Rachel McNeill highlighted the March of Dimes Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the city's first, at The Woman's Hospital. Proceeds raised at the event are dedicated to the unit, which is expected to serve 800 Houston-area families each year.

Shopping, lunching and learning were March of Dimes state director Darcie Champagne Wells, Yasmine Haddad, Karina Barbieri, Toni Walton, Brandi Brown, Karri Evans, Lynnette Davis, Brandi Henderson, Megan Leif, Mariel Lowe, Frances Elliott and Kim Bratton.

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Party Watch

Distinguished Houston gents gather for Brioni’s grand opening

What: Brioni Grand Opening with Men of Distinction

Where: Brioni Boutique in River Oaks District

The scoop: Italian menswear designer Brioni celebrated the grand opening of its Houston flagship at River Oaks District with a luxurious evening that merged high fashion with philanthropy. The November 7 event featured a private preview of Brioni's Bespoke Trunk Show, spotlighting the brand’s tailored craftsmanship. Men of Distinction, a nonprofit honoring Houston's community leaders, took the opportunity to recognize its esteemed researchers and honorees, celebrating milestones in raising funds for critical medical research at Texas Medical Center.

Dr. Michael A. Belfort of Texas Children’s Hospital delivered remarks that highlighted Men of Distinction's contributions to pioneering medical procedures, such as life-changing surgeries for spina bifida. Guests enjoyed Italian prosecco, old-fashioned cocktails, and tastings from The Macallan’s 12- and 15-year single malts, along with Italian bites by Bari Ristorante. Attendees left with luxurious parting gifts, including a Brioni crocodile leather keychain and a spa experience at The Post Oak Hotel.

Photo by Gary Fountain

A.J. Williams with Andi and Ballard Infante.

Who: Jesse Tudor, Gary Peterson, Mike Linn and Carol Linn, Keith Mosing and Alice Mosing, David Wurthrich, Tom Perich and Debra Perich, Dancie Ware and Jim Ware, John Serpe, Molly Crownover, Kevin Gilliard and Frank Billingsley, Tracy Dieterich, Robert Bernard, A.J. Williams, and Andi and Ballard Infante.

brioni river oaks district fundraisers men of distinction