By Sarah Tindall
CORPUS CHRISTI — From the moment I stepped off the escalator at the American Bank Center on Feb. 22, I felt I had been transported to Marrakech or Casablanca. Charity League and Julian Gold’s “Mystics of Morocco” style show and luncheon was as good as a passport to that exotic and exciting land.
Luncheon chairwomen Ashley Cocke and Cindy Segrest really put on an amazing show this year. The entrance to the ballroom was framed by a giant wooden trellis reminiscent of Moroccan architecture. Once inside the lobby, a tent with luxurious low sofas, cushions and rugs occupied the center of the room, along with a bar serving spritzers with fresh raspberries floating in them. I grabbed one and then chatted about how fantastic the decorations were with Sarah Morrison, Melinda Tucker, and Danielle Buchananuntil the doors opened and we entered the ballroom.
Everyone gasped in appreciation of the decorations inside: gold tablecloths with a gorgeous embroidered overlay. Even the napkin rings were bangles that shimmered in the light. On my way to my table, I stopped to visit with Meredith Carter, Carrie Pereda, and Michelle Ewing. I sat down with my tablemates, Katherine Barrera, Kayla Deases, Jill Jacobs, Tina Anastos, Lizzie Welsh, Suzie Hilliard, and hostess Natalie Honigbaum as Charity League President Allison Webster began the program.
Julian Gold’s Kate Spade New York style show was spectacular. A belly dancer began the show, and then adorable spring dresses and cocktail attire, luxe lingerie and evening gowns, and even a showstopping wedding gown all made their way down the runway as the 800 guests oohed and aahed with each new look.
After the show, Webster introduced Tom Klassen, executive director of HALO-Flight, Inc. He gave a presentation about the mission of the nonprofit and told us about lifesaving autopilot systems for his helicopters that he would buy with the funds raised through Charity League’s efforts. Webster then announced the total raised for the organization: an amazing $218,000. An ecstatic round of applause followed this announcement, after which all the ladies and gentlemen in attendance reluctantly left Morocco, sad to leave such a wonderful experience but glad to have been a part of it.
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