societytexas, Author at Society Texas

A CHANCE ROMANCE

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2024 | Weddings 2024, Spring/Summer 24

Sarah Chase Webber And Doug Barber Exchange Vows

By Alexandra Del Lago Photography by Sarah Chase, Chris Bailey Photography

It seemed like a perfect plot point for a romantic comedy film when Sarah Chase Webber, daughter of Mary and Temple Webber of Houston, met Doug Barber, son of Robert and Lois (now deceased) Barber of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Sarah had just returned to Houston from living in Washington, D.C. when she got a puppy. While walking her new dog, Riley, she met Doug, the owner of his dog, Bear, who lived two doors down, as it would happen. During the pandemic, the puppies played together daily, and soon, Sarah and Doug were a couple. It was meant to be.

“Doug was so sweet, and I enjoyed getting to know him and going on walks with our dogs,” shared the bride, Sarah Barber. “I love Doug’s sense of humor and think he is the most fun to be around.” The groom, Doug Barber, said, “Sarah has this warmth that drew me to her when we first met. I love her lively spirit and that she deeply cares for the people in her life.”

After Doug proposed to Sarah at Doug’s family place in Ashville, North Carolina, the wedding preparations in Houston began. The bride had attended camp nearby for eight years as a child, so it was the perfect spot. The wedding and poolside reception were held at the Bayou Club. The bride wanted color and lots of flowers. The varying shades of light and bright pink, oranges, and greens were gorgeously implemented for the special day. Sarah wanted it to feel very springlike, as if stepping into a flower shop, which was masterfully achieved thanks to the floral décor created by Bergner & Johnson Design while Sarah Bett of Belle Events planned the wedding.

The bride wore a dress by Elizabeth Fillmore Bridal in New York as she was walked down the aisle by her father to the tune, Here Comes The Sun. There was no “first look,” so it was a perfect setting for Sarah and Doug to see each other for the first time that day. Sarah’s Matron of Honor was Elizabeth Rambin, while Maid of Honor Alexandra Reiss served her along with attendants Casey Roeling and Lindsay Tanenbaum. Doug selected Jim Barber as his Best Man, along with his groomsmen Charles Barber, Patrick Boyd, Elliot Dahl, Jonathan Jordan, Robert Seanet, John Webber, and Franklin Wolfe. In fact, Doug had given all his groomsmen cowboy hats, which were floating around the dance floor and enjoyed by many throughout the night.

After the ceremony, the cocktail reception featured a raw bar with oysters, crab, and shrimp, followed by a buffet dinner. During this time, the couple’s specialty cocktails were served that honored their dogs: the Riley Rita and the Bayou Bear (based on the Bayou Club’s Bayou Breeze drink). Party In The City provided the music for dancing before the couple hopped into a vintage Ford Bronco, a favorite of Doug’s, and kept the exuberant party going at the St. Regis Hotel.

Sarah graduated from the College of Charleston in South Carolina and works in marketing at Memorial Hermann Health System. Doug graduated from Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania before earning his graduate degree at The University of Texas at Austin. He is a geologist at Chevron. The happy couple honeymooned at Turtle Inn in Belize and reside in Houston.

IN THE STARS

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2024 | Weddings 2024, Spring/Summer 24

Zöe Legate Dobson And Connor Eaton Howden Wed

By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Jenny DeMarco

Sometimes, a couple is destined to be together. It’s written in the stars, one might say. That was the case for Zöe Dobson and Connor Howden. The two have known each other all their lives, growing up in the same neighborhood in Austin and frequently seeing one another due to the friendship between their parents. These childhood friends went to elementary and high school together before they gave romance a go in their junior year of high school. The duo was initially drawn together due to their similar interests and understanding of their unique sense of humor.

The two dated for two years when college beckoned. They parted ways as they went to separate universities in different states. After two years apart, “We both realized during our junior year of college that we were each other’s person,” mused Zöe. “We have been together ever since and are still best friends today.” Upon completing college, Zöe returned home to Austin to continue their romance. After dating for several more years, the bride-to-be was in for the happiest surprise of her life. “Connor had my friends organize a girl’s happy hour on the patio at The Four Seasons in Austin,” Zöe happily recalls. “They got me to walk down to Lady Bird Lake for pictures where Connor was waiting. He rented a boat for us and proposed at sunset, overlooking the city’s skyline where we both grew up just as stars started appearing in the evening sky..”

The couple was engaged for 13 months before their wedding at The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin. There, on a picture-perfect spring day, the couple exchanged their vows in an outdoor ceremony underneath The Star of Texas on the newly opened promenade outside the museum. The bride looked stunning in her Ramona Keveza wedding dress as her father escorted her down the aisle with an elegant mix of white, light blue, and peach flowers designed by Remi + Gold. Zöe’s brother, Jack, wedded the couple in front of 350 invited friends and family members.

The reception, held inside the atrium of The Bullock Museum, was beautifully executed by Lexie Perez of 787 Events. The duo opted for open seating where guests could sit and dine at their leisure in a fun mix of square, round, and high-top tables, all featuring Lucite chairs. During the reception, guests were treated to a custom margarita bar, a five-tier all-white wedding cake, and late-night chicken and biscuits. The couple departed with the help of family and friends who stood on either side of the couple, holding sparklers and cheering them on a clear, starry night.

As for their favorite part of the day, the bride and groom agreed it was being with their friends and family who had been with them through their entire 10-year journey. “To have all of our best friends from growing up together, college, and adulthood was so special,” they remarked. “It was so special and fun to connect all of our favorite people in one room.”

Zöe, the daughter of Diana and Casey Dobson of Austin, is a graduate of Washington and Lee University and an investment banker at Focus Strategies. Connor, the son of Jenna and Robert Howden, also of Austin, is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and works in commercial real estate for Kairoi Residential. The couple reside in Austin, where they enjoy exploring the city’s vibrant food scene, boating on Lake Austin, and attending University of Texas football games.

FIT FOR A PRESIDENT

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2024 | Spring/Summer 24, Culture

THE LBJ Presidential Library Hosts MONTHLY Program Series

By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Jay Godwin

THE SETTING: The LBJ Presidential Library in Austin hosts an annual season of special Evening With programs featuring dynamic conversations with some of the most notable leaders in the political, cultural, and media fields on topics related to American history and current affairs. The special events, open to Friends of the LBJ Library members, draw some of the Lone Star State’s most notable sociables, history lovers, and philanthropists. Following the programs, members at the Legacy and Cabinet levels are invited to a cocktail reception and dinner with the featured speakers in the 10^th floor atrium.

THE STYLE: On one to two nights a month between September and May, audiences of up to 1,000 attendees dressed in Austin-chic attire fill the Lady Bird Johnson Auditorium for interview-style discussions, moderated by Mark Updegrove, president and CEO of the LBJ Foundation and presidential historian for ABC News.

This past year, speakers included William McRaven, who shared highlights from his career as an Admiral in the Navy and lessons on leadership from his book, The Wisdom of the Bullfrog. Jake Tapper talked about covering current affairs as an anchor at CNN and his recently published book, All the Demons Are Here. Heather Cox Richardson, historian and editor of the popular daily newsletter, “Letters from an American,” spoke about the state of our democracy and lessons for the current moment drawn from our national history to a capacity crowd of 1,000. The season closed out with former Defense Secretary Dr. Robert Gates, who shared insights about current world and geopolitical events, including the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

THE PURPOSE: Membership gifts to the Friends of the LBJ Library benefit the Evening With series, special museum exhibitions, and educational programs for K-12 schools. Annual memberships start at $65 and include access to the museum, special events and exhibit openings, and invitations to the Evening With programs. Members at the premium levels ($1,000 and above) receive preferred seating for Evening With programs, as well as access to exclusive dinner receptions and VIP events each season. To join or for more information, visit www.LBJFriends.org or email Friends@LBJFoundation.org.

PASSPORT TO PARADISE

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2024 | List, Spring/Summer 24, Style

Every honeymoon is about bliss and pure romance…a true respite after all the preparations that went into the big day. For your exotic trip, rest and relax while looking stunning the entire time, according to the Top 10 list by our style guides, the always chic Rank & Style CEO Jamie Chandlee, and her team.

HIGH TIDE, HIGH STYLE

The twisting botanical prints in Agua by Agua Bendita’s collections pay homage to the flora and fauna of the brand’s native Colombia. Patterned with intricate blooms, this ‘Ebano’ swimsuit’s sweetheart neckline is traced with pretty ruffles and a delicate bow where each end is tipped with lustrous faux pearls.

$290. At Net-A-Porter.com.

OK, BRING EVERYTHING

We love that Khaite’s medium-sized ‘Amelia’ tote is ideal for long commutes or day trips. Crafted from raffia and leather, it has sculptural folds and protective feet at the base. The spacious interior is fitted with a zipped pocket to keep small items close at hand.

$1950. At Net-A-Porter.com.

EVERYTHING’S ROSEY

This luminosity-boosting Rose Gold Radiance Body Oil by 111 Skin has a brightening blend of natural oils and extracts to transform dull, lackluster limbs and quench dry knees, elbows and anywhere else in need of a moisture boost. It also reverses the effects of UV damage and irritation, making it perfect as an after-sun or post-shave treatment.

$95. At ModaOperandi.com.

RIGHT-HAND RADIANCE

Inspired by classic signet styles, David Yurman’s heirloom-esque pinky ring is cast from 18-karat gold and centered with sparkling diamonds arranged to depict your chosen initial.

$1300. At Net-A-Porter.com.

DINNER TO DANCING

The Anglaise Midi Matchmaker is cotton and features spliced panels of broderie anglaise. With boning through its bodice, a scoop neckline, shirred elastic across the back, side seam pockets, and invisible zip closure, you’ll want to wear it when you return, too.

$1050. At Zimmerman.com.

GLOWING COMPLIMENTS

Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Drops is the breakthrough, multi-use highlighting serum that hydrates and visibly reduces the look of hyperpigmentation for a dewy, reflective glow. Perfect for any type of skin to reduce dryness and dullness.

$35. At Sephora.com.

STEPPING UP

The Michael raffia-trimmed leather sandals by Gabriela Hearst gets raves from us for its chic versatility. The smooth leather straps and split wooden soles feature braided raffia trims that have been expertly hand-woven by skilled artisans in Morocco.

$1150. At Net-A-Porter.com.

INNER, MEET OUTER ROCK STAR

If paparazzi decides to join you on your honeymoon, escape them with this Dancer Aviator in cream. The classic oversized aviator shape sports an enamel painted metal frame with rosy lens.

$290. At Zimmerman.com.

SCENT OF DESIRE

Victoria Beckham evokes the enrapturing fragrance of burgeoning romance through the memory in the fragrance, Portofino ’97. It’s A euphoric hit of calabrian bergamot and black pepper; crisp white sheets suffused with incense and amber; patchouli and vetiver lingering on the skin of a significant other.

$200. At VictoriaBeckhamBeauty.com.

CAPTIVATING CHAPEAU

Founded in 2011 by Australian creative duo, Rob and Tess, Lack of Color has reimagined the world of hats like this one, a wide-brimmed and domed down for the ultimate sun protection, the ‘Paloma’ is made from golden wheat straw and features a detachable chocolate brown cotton neck tie.

$150. At Net-A-Porter.com.

SEALED WITH A KISS

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2024 | Weddings 2024, Spring/Summer 24

Tiffany Larkam and Will Caldwell Exchange Vows

By Lance Avery Morgan Photography by Lacy + Lee

When the minister asked the bride and groom to kiss at the end of their ceremony, it was their first kiss. Ever. They had saved such a special moment for the big day. Tiffany Larkam, daughter of Kristi and Charles Larkam II of Austin, and Will Caldwell, son of Vicki and Gerald Caldwell of Dallas, married each other in a gorgeous ceremony at Hyde Park Baptist Church in Austin, where their parents had married 32 years ago. Having met at church through mutual friends and after dating for one year, they had an engagement of eight months.

Like many, the proposal was unique and started with a ruse to detract attention. The groom’s mother had a pivotal role in the plan. She called the couple on their way to a family gathering and asked if they could stop by their church first since she had forgotten something and requested that they pick it up. “We walked into the foyer of the church where there was a sparkling chandelier turned on, music was playing, and there were candles and flowers,” recounted the bride. “I said, ‘Oh, it looks like there is a ceremony going on…we should go the other way,’ to which Will responded, ‘Yes, there is a ceremony… Tiffany, today is the day.’” She continued, “He was down on one knee popping the question. I was so surprised and thrilled.”

Plans were made for the ceremony’s festivities ahead. The rehearsal dinner at Westwood Country Club kicked off the weekend of nuptial activities. For the exchange of vows, the bride was stunning in a Geraldine Mikado ballgown, featuring Spanish lace detailing along that bodice that created a sheer and lace effect along the length of arms. Customized button detailing added to the entire length of the royal train. In her hair, she wore flowers that were embellished from her mother’s veil.

She was escorted down the aisle by her father to the groom’s favorite hymn, Come Thou Fount. The couple’s mothers and grandmothers walked down the aisle to As the Deer, which was also in the wedding ceremony of the bride’s parents years ago. The three worship songs were The Goodness of God, I Love You, Lord, and We Exalt Thee by vocalists Pastor Randy Davenport, Pastor Cassidy Wilkinson, and Kaitlyn Davis, with accompaniment by piano and Barton Strings.

Pastor Earl McClellan of Shoreline City Church in Dallas was the officiant, and he made jokes that entertained the guests and brought tons of laughter during the ceremony. The bride and groom also took Communion led by the bride’s uncle, Pastor John Larkam. At the beginning of the ceremony, a candle was lit close to where the bride stood, by the bride’s family in memory of Tiffany’s late sister, Alexandra Larkam. Scripture was read by Annie Grace Weeden, the bride’s late sister’s dearest friend.

Tiffany’s Matrons of Honor were Emma Abernathy and Katlyn Campbell, while Redeate Seife served as Maid of Honor. The additional Bridesmaids serving her were Ansley Braden, Kelley Brown, Mollie Chinnery, Molly Dunaway, Avery Godwin, Emily Harrison, Catherine Larkam, Chelsea Mount, Sydnee Nichols, Andy Vazquez, and Hailey Whatley, along with Walker Brown and Caleb Walker as Ring Bearers. In the House Party were Mary Claire Bass, Cori Camp, Kalle Davis, Fields Dunston, Ashley Harrison, Kaitlin Kimbrell, Stephanie Larkam, Kristen Walker, and Naomi Walker. The flower girls were Grace Brown, Charlotte Larkam, and Alyssa Walker. The groom was attended by 14 groomsmen, including his father, who served as his Best Man: Dany Anchia, Christian Avila, Tom Brandt, Drew Brown, Jacob Cardenas, Marcos Celis, Troy Dixon, Charlie Gibson, Damian Juarez, Charles Larkam III, Daniel Poku, Natt Rataphan, and Holden Royals.

After the worship and music-filled ceremony, the 420 guests enjoyed dinner and dancing at the Driskill Hotel. The color theme for the entire affair was white, light pink, and periwinkle blue, which Barbara Shorts at Verve Events planned, while Westbank Florist created the floral décor. Alba Artisan Bakery made the bride’s and groom’s cakes. “Our spirited band, Matchmaker, joyfully led our guests to the exit of the Driskill by playing Oh When the Saints Go Marching In,” mused Tiffany. “We made our grand exit as our guests threw flower petals in celebration of our brand new marriage union. It was a day to remember. We felt like royalty.”

The bride, who graduated from Baylor University is employed by WeWork, while the groom, who graduated from Dallas Baptist University, works for Guidestone Financial Services. They reside in Dallas and spent their sunny beach honeymoon in Antigua.