Typically the chatter at November gatherings of the non-profit set circles around kids playing soccer, spouses being about due to last-minute meetings and plans for the next project. But on Thursday, November 9, that wasn’t the case at the Crystal Charity Ball Underwriting reception at Amy and Corey Prestige’s great home.
The location was convenient for Diane and Hal Brierley, who just walked across the street to dine, wine and catch up with buddies.
Immediately upon entering the mansion, guests like Doris and Jack Jacobs, Lee Bailey, Delilah and Sam Boyd, Ginny and Randy Bailey, Claire and Dwight Emanuelson, Barbara and Ralph Babb, Shelle and Michael Sills, CCB event producer Tom Addis, Debbie Oates, Kim Hext, Lisa and Marvin Singleton and Lisa and Kenny Troutt were struck by the eggplant purple lacquered walls of the entry. One chap commented that it was a first for him. While an interior design expert quipped, the paint job was as breathtaking as it was expensive.
Now as for the second topic du jour, it was a review of the night before. Many of the group had attended The Family Place’s ReuNight. But the talk didn’t even mention being at the The Statler or the well-behaved llama. Rather, the memory-maker was the live auction that followed the dinner. It ranged from a Saturday Night Live skit to, “it was so robotic.” The auctioneer in question had gained recognition earlier in the season at The Jade Ball for stalking bids in the Belo Ballroom.
Twas not the case this time. One gent was surprised that the auctioneer started off asking for a high bid instead of easing up low. Even the most Mary Sunshine types were amazed at the auctioneer’s antics.
But all this talk ceased when silver forks clanged against crystal glasses to call the guests like Kelsey Halford, Nicole Becker, Candace Winslow, Piper Wyatt, Anne Besser, Brent Christopher and Shelle Sills together in the den for a thank-you from CCB Chair Pam Perella and evening sponsor Diamond’s Direct’s Amit Berger, who had provided sparkly items for Pam, Underwriting Chair Leslie Diers and others to wear. At one point in his speaking to the glittering crowd, someone’s phone was loudly heard. Immediately the eyes scoured the room for the hand to reach into the pocket to silence the interrupting cellphone. Amit laughed. It was his phone.
After the brief comments, it was back to chatting and grazing in the dining room. The Cassandra Fine Catering spread at these parties is one of the main reasons that husbands don’t complain about attending. She sets a mighty fine table.