In preparation for The Wilkinson Center‘s Fifth Annual Spirit of Taos on Saturday, September 29, at The Statler, Co-Chairs Caitlin Hyatt and Laurann Cavenaghi had a kick-off gathering at Buddy Love’s on Thursday, August 30. Here’s a report from the field:
Buddy Love hosted the Kick-Off Party for the Friends of Wilkinson Center’s fifth Annual Spirit of Taos! Attendees enjoyed shopping from the delightful selection of western chic wear designed by owner Grayson DiFonzo. She and husband Buddy proved to be the perfect hosts for the occasion!
Two generations of volunteers converged upon the Design District warehouse as this year’s Spirit of Taos marks a changing of the guard in many ways. Several of Wilkinson Center’s founding Friends, including Melanie Myers and Nancy Montgomery, looked on pridefully as their sons and daughters made their way through the crowd engaging longtime supporters like Spirit of Taos Honorary Chairs Marian and Rob Richmond, who were especially delighted by the colorful cowboy boot display courtesy of Lizzy Chesnut and City Boots. Spirit of Taos Chairs Caitlin Hyatt and Laurann Cavenaghi busied themselves amongst the garment racks that lined the showroom, snagging floor length dusters and strappy off-the shoulder pieces for themselves! Friends of Wilkinson Center Co-Presidents Meridith and Jeremy Zidell escorted Spirit of Taos Emcee and co-host of WFAA’s “Good Morning Texas” Alanna Sarabia while she greeted and posed for photos with guests. Wilkinson Center Board President Kathy Koons, along with her husband John Ammons and Executive Director Anne Reeder, got in on the action and posed for the cameras along with Sarabia!
The evening was a tremendous success as everyone found something to love at Buddy Love and enjoyed mixing and mingling the night away with family and friends. Buddy Love generously donated a portion of the evening’s sales back to Wilkinson Center.
The Spirit of Taos takes place on Saturday, September 29th at Scout at The Statler Hotel. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.wilkinsoncenter.org.
* Photo credit: Jenifer McNeil Baker