by societytexas | Jun 30, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Parties, Austin
Helping Hand Home Hosts Annual Crystal Deb Presentation And Gala
By Rose Betty Williams Photography by James French
THE SETTING: The Helping Hand Society recently celebrated the 2019 Crystal Ball Brunch and Fashion Show and black tie Debutante Presentation Gala at the Palmer Events Center. Thirty-two debutantes, their escorts and junior escorts were presented along with 165 ninth grade Helping Hand Girls and Boys and 41 First Grade Princesses.
THE STYLE: The fashion show was presented by Julian Gold and Webber Productions, and the brunch cuisine was provided by Catering by Rosemary, which also catered the Presentation Gala dinner. The debutantes and their fathers enjoyed the first dance followed by the capacity crowd of participant and Helping Hand Society member families, Helping Hand Home supporters, event sponsors, underwriters and friends dancing to the music of the Blind Date.
The 2019 Helping Hand Crystal Ball debutantes are: Lily Balagia, Julie Breeden, Ellie Brumley, Ellen Campbell, Abby Chambless, Marilee Cowden, Katie Chandler, Cate Davis, Abigail Downing, Carlisle Dunnam, Merritt Fish, MaryAlex Frishman, Tucker Garrison, Grace Gilmour, Elle Hansen, Suzanne Huff, Sophie Johnson, Mary Frances Kocurek, Olivia Late, Susie McCartt, Libby McFarland, Marina Monsivias, Frances Newton, Carter Nokes, Molly Pitts, Anna Louise Sanders, Anna Claire Smith, Ellie Strehli, Cameron Thompson, Josie Turlington and Cate Von Dohlen.
THE PURPOSE: This year’s gala was co-chaired by Stacy Turlington Dollar and Susie Meserole with a committee of more than 70 Helping Hand Society member volunteers, including HHH President Julie Metzger. The Crystal Ball is the largest fundraiser for the Helping Hand Home for Children. It raised more than $1.3 million dollars in support of the Helping Hand Home’s mission: to provide a nurturing and therapeutic home for children and to restore each child to a healthy family setting. The goal of the organization is to protect and restore the lives of victimized children so that those without hope may reclaim their futures.
by societytexas | Jun 29, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Quest, Style
We know your inner Brit wants to go out to play. Admit it. We’re pretty sure, too, that inner Brit wants to go shopping while there. So, where can a discerning gentleman do that than in London right now? Our inveterate traveler Jay Batten shares his favorite insider tips you can’t leave home without in this comprehensive gentleman’s guide to our top five shopping recommendations in England’s tony capital.
Any client list that includes Churchill, Cruise, and Beckham is in a word, impressive. Savile Row’s client list includes those very icons, and that’s proof enough that every gentleman needs to head on over to this historic street. It is a high-end fashion hub in the heart of London’s Mayfield district. It is home to, among others, Henry Poole & Co., the inventor of the tuxedo, and Gieves and Hawkes, who have been tailoring for royalty, business professionals, and celebrities for years. So, if you want the best suits in the world, chances are Savile Row’s cadre of bespoke tailors can make them for you. At SavileRowBespoke.com
Connolly has certainly come a long way from its 1878 beginnings as a saddle-maker. It eventually became the motor industry’s foremost supplier of the finest-quality leather money can buy. Now, the brand has become synonymous with luxurious tailoring and fine knits. Connolly’s Mayfair store boasts a diverse collection of finely made formalwear, though its specialty remains leatherware—wallets, bags, etc.—made of the highest order and, yes, from the finest quality leather money can buy. At ConnollyEngland.com
On one of the images:
Images courtesy of Connolly’s
Everything you need (and want) is all in one location. That’s the best way to describe Covent Garden, a venue where you can buy clothes, gifts, jewelry, grooming products, sweets, and even arts and crafts. And, in case you ever want to experience full-on that unique London shopping experience that we love most, make sure you include the following in your itinerary: Floral and Monmouth Streets, St. Martin’ Courtyard, Shorts Gardens, Neal’s Yard, and Seven Dials. At CoventGarden.london
Gentlemen should always be on the lookout for bargains–there’s nothing wrong scoring a luxurious belt or shoes on the cheap. Make your way to the London Designer Outlet (LDO), home of discounted designer and high-street brands. It has a wide selection of shops, from high fashion to sports apparel and there’s likely something for any discerning gentleman. Additionally, LDO is a stone throw away from the iconic Wembley stadium. Just across the street, in fact, the soccer club, Tottenham Hotspur, is currently its temporary residence. This is the perfect gentleman’s getaway as Wembley plays host to various matches and events that a shopped-out gentleman can experience after a full day’s worth of shopping at the LDO. At LondonDesignerOutlet.com
For your casualwear needs, pay a visit to Browns at South Moulton Street. It is a multi-brand retailer that offers a range of choices so you can update your wardrobe in style. Statement pieces from international designers can be had here, including hard-to-find trainers by JW Anderson For Versus and Adidas x Raf Simons. It is a compact boutique with a precisely laid out collection of must-haves, which means finding what you’re looking for is a breeze. At BrownsFashion.com
by societytexas | Jun 29, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Admire, Style
Wedding season is in full swing, which means it’s the perfect time to shower newlyweds with gifts they won’t forget. From home decor to wedding weekend style, it’s no secret that timeless pieces are the answer. Our glam nuptial guru, Tori Johnson, of ThesTORIbook.com, is sharing her curated collection of wedding must-haves.
When combining households, it’s often better to start anew. Help turn a house into a home with a roomful of furniture as a gift. Photo and availability courtesy of Stowers Furniture.
From engagement teas and luncheons, to parties galore, give them a hint of what’s to come with this darling White Pilar ensemble created by Tish Cox, featuring an oversized bow that cascades down the back. $895. Photo and exclusive availability at TheSIL.com
No table is complete without a statement centerpiece. Every hostess with the mostest will adore this crystal beauty by Lily. $400. At The Menagerie, Austin.
Step aside stainless steel, copper is the new “it” metal taking over the household. This Duparquet copper set is the same cookware used in Neiman Marcus restaurants. $3,875. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus
These Aquazzura heels will make every bride feel like a star as she walks the aisle in style. $1,350. Photo and availability courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.
Want to get the party started? Delight the lucky duo with handmade cocktail napkins that contain uniquely festive messages. $40 for a set of 4. At AugustMorgan.com and The Menagerie, Austin.
This set of two candle holders by Michael Aram is perfect for the bridal couple’s new home. The collection was inspired by anemone flowers, which are said to bring good luck and offer protection. $350. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus
For the bride who adores her floral, gift this Jay Strongwater handcrafted glass vase with hand-set Swarovski crystals. $450. Photo and availability courtesy of Neiman Marcus.
This Ben-Amun crystal and pearl hair piece will transform any ‘do into a Pinterest-worthy creation. From $240. Photo and availability courtesy of Ben-Amun.
Take cocktail hour up a notch with a new statement piece for their chic home like this brass and acrylic bar cart. $1450. At Jonathan Adler.
We’re positive we’ve found the perfect place to honeymoon. Positano, Italy is a trifecta of good food, great people and breathtaking views. Photo courtesy of Italy Magazine.
Nothing makes a home seem as entertaining-ready as fresh flowers. The Bouqs Company makes life easier with multiple subscription options for a constant rotation of blooms. Photo and availability courtesy of The Bouqs Company.
From bridal teas to luncheons to the ceremony, the right cake always makes a statement. As individual as each bride, it’s sweetness endures. Prices vary. Photo and availability courtesy of Paiges Bakehouse
Ace game night with this luxe version of a backgammon set that’s perfect for any coffee table. $2,500. Photo and availability courtesy of Michael Aram.
Top off your bridal look with this stunning veil in delicate Chantilly lace that offers a breath of fresh air for the blushing bride. $750. Photo and availability courtesy of BHLDN.
by societytexas | Jun 29, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Savor, Culture
Always looking for the next best thing, our editors Lesa Rossick in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio share their stellar statewide recommendations that are must-dines during the warm weather months.
Like a familiar lifetime friend where you are always welcome, to many La Traviata is exactly that and still serves the best Italian food west of Rome. Run by owner-chef Marion Gillcrist, this fan favorite has served seasonally fresh cuisine in the heart of downtown for nearly two decades. The must-haves are the Chicken Parmesan, homemade ravioli, and salmon dishes, which all reign supreme as classic Italian dishes.
At LaTraviataATX.com
Menu favorites include crema de elote, roasted duck relleno and specialty margaritas keep El Alma firmly planted in the spotlight of the best Mexican fare in Texas. Featuring a multi-level design, including a rooftop deck with dramatic skyline views, El Alma offers lunch and dinner seven days a week along with a daily happy hour and weekend brunch.
At ElAlmaCafe.com
The former union hall on the edge of Zilker Park recently had new life breathed into it as a boutique hotel and chic eatery. The place-to-be is Carpenter’s Hall restaurant that serves up Texas comfort food like no other. Schnitzel, pastas and burgers round out the fare in the large open interior space, as well as private dining outside, too.
At CarpenterHotel.com
HERO by HG SPLY CO has recently opened an impressive 25,000 square foot open-air restaurant just steps away from American Airlines Center. The main dining room offers two full-service bars with an open-air facade. At the opposite end of the building is a massive indoor/outdoor bar area dubbed, The Meantime, with impressive 24-foot screen for game watching, concerts, private events and presentations. HERO also houses its 800 square-foot Arcade with classic gaming that can be tailored for events, a pool table and more.
At HeroByHG.com
Photography courtesy of Shannon Faulk
Merchant House offers a new American and globally inspired menu taking on a combination of shared items and entrees to create a fully social dining experience. You can expect an array of delicious, scratch cocktails and a full complement of locally brewed beers and cocktails on tap. Merchant House also offers weekend brunch with a focus on fun, social food and drinks for the whole table. The upstairs bar offers stunning views of downtown with a sexy, intimate lounge atmosphere.
At MerchantHouse.ArgoConcepts.com
Truluck’s has added 10 new cocktails to celebrate the summer season. From fruity concoctions to mellow libations, there’s something to tantalize the taste buds of everyone. Available in the Stone Crab Lounge and on the dinner menu served in the upstairs dining room, Truluck’s uses the best possible ingredients and techniques to ensure that every drink served is an experience. Plus, Truluck’s has one of the best happy hours in town, offering half-price cocktails, featured wines, and selected appetizers in the Stone Crab Lounge.
At Trulucks.com
Named for the California county known for its support of the slow food movement and sustainable farming, Mendocino Farms has selected its first location outside of California in Rice Village. The restaurant will feature a unique gathering place where foodies and families alike can come together over chef-driven sandwiches and soulful salads served with white tablecloth hospitality. The seasonally rotating menu features fine dining quality ingredients at an approachable price point and champions deserving local farms and food artisans. Opening late summer 2019 and additional locations on the horizon are: Uptown Park, Heights, and Downtown.
At MendocioFarms.com
Postino was born in a historic 1940s-era Arizona post office in 2001 and has since been dedicated to giving customers a hyper-localized experience within each community it becomes a part of. The brand is built on Postino’s foundation of revitalizing historically relevant buildings that are integral to the neighborhoods that surround each location. This August, Postino will open its second Houston location in Montrose, formerly home to the Montrose Mining Company, bringing the area a new classic neighborhood outpost.
At PostinoWineCafe.com
Photography by Becca Wright
Recently opened in the heart of the River Oaks District, Ouzo Bay offers contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with a seafood-focused menu. In addition to a wide selection of freshly-caught whole fish and signature dishes of Mediterranean, Greek-inspired favorites that are paired with the acclaimed sommelier’s elevated beverage program available at Ouzo Bay’s full-service bar, lounge, or at one of the many tables in the bright, nautical space.
At OuzoBay.com
On the hunt for a magical venue for your next special event? Look no further than Southtown’s Ivy Hall, a cluster of stylish indoor-outdoor spaces managed by best of San Antonio caterer Tim the Girl. From brand photoshoots, to birthday parties, to weddings and more, Ivy Hall is an urban botanical oasis with a freshly funky old-meets-new feel that is sure to provide a standout backdrop that fits your needs.
At TimTheGirl.com/Ivy-Hall
A dining experience built around America’s favorite food–burgers–infused with Mexico’s interior flare, Burgerteca transforms the experience of casual dining in a creative and fun environment conceptualized by San Antonio chef Johnny Hernandez. With indigenous Mexican ingredients, distinct styles and regional iconic and celebratory dishes, Burgerteca celebrates Mexico’s culture of its sweet and savory colorful day-to-day life.
At ChefJohnnyHernandez.com
Boasting a branding revamp and showcasing exciting summer menu additions, San Antonio’s treasured neighborhood bar since 1973, Bombay Bicycle Club now offers Sunday brunch, craft cocktails, and community events. The place where everybody knows your name, Bombay Bicycle Club is a refreshingly nostalgic feel-good spot to add to your frequent favorites list.
At BombayBicycleClubSA.com
by societytexas | Jun 29, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Pursue
Everywhere we look there’s something new to love. Join our inveterate cool hunter Lance Avery Morgan as he scopes the world near and far for the most unique new opportunities you can experience, too.
Hotelier extraordinaire Andre Balazs has done it again. The former mid-century masterpiece, the TWA terminal at JFK Airport designed by architect Eero Saarinen is now the TWA luxe hotel just waiting for your Mad Men revival stay.
At TWAHotel.com
What do Effen Vodka, Larios Gin, Cruzan Rum. Hornitos Tequila, Tres Generations Tequila, and
Knob Creek Bourbon all have in common? They are a part of On The Rocks Cocktails, a chic premium-bottled cocktail brand that uses only the finest all-natural ingredients and is focused on quality, not price. Plus, no preservatives or artificial ingredients are used and with their rigorous standards for quality, it’s why On the Rocks Cocktails has become a fan favorite of consumers, mixologists, and food and beverage directors alike. At OTRCocktails.com
GAME. SET. MATCH. ATTEND.
The fast-paced US Open tennis tournament is one of the most dynamic spectator sports in the world and the perfect way to end the summer after spending time at the beach or in the city. Starts August 26. At USOpen.org
Yumi Foods has just launched in Texas and we love that founders Evelyn Rusli and Angela Sutherland felt the market lacked quality pre-made meals for babies. So, they did something about it. They both left successful careers to create Yumi: freshly made, nutrient-dense food for babies, toddlers, and more–conveniently delivered right to your doorstep. To help immediately improve your baby’s world, visit HelloYumi.com
Want to experience the great outdoors in style? LCRA Parks has introduced five brand-new, luxurious 25’ Flying Cloud Airstreams at the park system’s Lake Bastrop North Shore Park (near Austin). One weekend here will have you connected with nature once again.
At LCRA.org
The MidCentury Kitchen: America’s Favorite Room, from Workspace to Dreamscape, 1940s to 1970s by Sarah Archer covers the spectrum of food, design, and social history in this masterfully assembled illustrated pop history of the birth of the modern kitchen covering everything from the popularity of aqua and avocado, gender influence on the marketing of appliances and cooking, the birth of processed foods, and so much more.
At CountrymanPress.com
by societytexas | Jun 28, 2019 | 2019 July Aug, Exhibit, Culture
The best plays, musical performances and exhibits in Texas are being enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurers Claire-Lise Greve and Lance Avery Morgan who share our favorite recommendations from across the state in this issue.
The new exhibit at the Bullock Texas State History Museum, WWI America, presents the stories of a divisive and transformational America told through original artifacts, images, voices, music, hands-on exploration, and multimedia presentations to capture the era that changed the world. Thru August 11.
At TheStoryOfTexas.com
Photo courtesy of the Bullock Texas State History Museum
From four-time Tony Award® winner, screenwriter Terrence McNally is Immortal Longings. In his newest show, the tempestuous relationship between the flamboyant impresario, Sergei Pavlovich Diaghilev and Vaslav Nijinsky, the sensational superstar of his troupe is explored in Les Ballets Russes at ZACH Theatre. Recommended for ages 17+ and up due to language and mature situations. Through July 14.
At ZachTheatre.org
Photo courtesy of ZACH Theatre
Jeffrey Gibson: This is the Day features over 50 remarkable pieces including everything from beaded wall hangings to paintings to ceramics and even garments. This Blanton Museum exhibition features a brand new video, I Was Here. that was commissioned specifically for the show, Opening July 14.
At BlantonMuseum.org
The Dior: From Paris To The World exhibit at the Dallas Museum of Art features designs from every creative director from Dior over the 70 year history of the fashion house. It showcases nearly 200 haute couture dresses as well as accessories, original sketches, and other rare archival materials. The cathedral-like installation room of gowns is a must-see. Through September 1.
At DMA.org
Photo courtesy of the Dallas Museum of Art
Monet: The Late Years, the new exhibit at The Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth portrays the evolution of Monet’s painting style from 1913 until his death in 1926. It features many paintings that are being shown in the United States for the first time ever. Through September 15.
At KimbellArt.org
Photo courtesy of the Kimbell Art Museum
Coming to Fair Park, Hello Dolly, presented by Dallas Summer Musicals, is the story of a socialite turned matchmaker who tries to assist her latest clients in finding love. This great show for the whole family is classic Broadway and features Broadway great and native Texan, Betty Buckley in the title role. Through July 17.
At FairParkBoxOffice.com
Photo courtesy of Dallas Summer Musicals
Icons of Style: A Century of Fashion Photography at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is an exhibition showcasing over 200 photographs from various fashion photographers. It highlights how their work shaped the industry into the cultural force it is today. Through September 22.
At MFAH.org
Dressed, 1981 by Helmut Newton. Courtesy of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Aladdin, adapted from the Academy Award®-winning animated Disney film and centuries-old folktales including One Thousand and One Nights, is brought to fresh theatrical life in this bold new musical. Aladdin’s journey sweeps audiences into an exotic world of daring adventure, classic comedy and timeless romance brought to the stage by Broadway At The Hobby.
At BroadwayAtTheHobbyCenter.com
Photo by Deen van Meer
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 and see how the miracle of space happened when all eyes were on the moon in July, 1969. We recommend the NASA Tram Tours featuring Historic Mission Control at NASA Johnson Space Center.
At SpaceCenter.org
Photo courtesy of NASA
The Swinging Sixties are alive and kicking as the McNay Art Museum presents two innovative and inclusive exhibitions—Andy Warhol: Portraits and Transamerica/n: Gender, Identity, Appearance Today.. The Warhol show features over 120 paintings, prints, photographs, films, and videos that captures New York from the 1960s through the 1980s. The Transamerica/n: Gender, Identity, Appearance Today exhibit is the country’s first broad survey of contemporary artwork from across North America to explore the construction of identity through gender and outward appearance. Through September 15
At McNayArt.org
Andy Warhol, Valentino, 1974. Acrylic and silkscreen ink on linen. The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh; Founding Collection, Contribution The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. 1998.
The colorful Men of Steel, Women of Wonder exhibit at the San Antonio Museum of Art analyzes the world’s response to superheroes like Superman and Wonder Woman…ranging from their creation in the Great Depression to their modern portrayals in film. Through September 1.
At SAMuseum.org
Photo courtesy of the San Antonio Museum of Art
Into A New West: Contemporary Works From The Booth Museum at the Briscoe Museum of Art includes modern art from the 1960s in a way that challenges our conventions of what represents western art, as well as art from the present day. Through September 1.
At BriscoeMuseum.org
Photo courtesy of the Briscoe Museum of Art
