COWBOYS ON THE COAST
The Bryan Museum Dazzles With Coastal Cowboys-Themed Gala
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Dave Rossman
THE SETTING: The Bryan Museum in Galveston was the setting of one of the most significant events of the city’s social season. Over 400 of the area’s most notable business leaders, sociables, and philanthropists descended upon the museum for the annual Bryan Museum gala. This year’s theme, Coastal Cowboys, brought the fun in a big way, featuring great company, fantastic food, and show-stopping musical performances.
THE STYLE: The “formal Western wear” attire brought a mix of cowboy hats with ballgowns and tuxedos, creating a uniquely elegant, yet fun vibe that created a festive environment for all who attended. The night began with an exclusive pre-party inside the museum where guests cozied up to the bar to grab the evening’s signature cocktail, The Brush Fire, and mingled with friends old and new. During the pre-party, guests also perused the impressive silent auction while melodies from Libby Koch provided an additional level of cowboy elegance.
The festivities then moved to a tent on the Bryan Museum grounds for the main program. As partygoers dined on a delectable multi-course meal, they were treated to words from event and museum leaders. Next, Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame member Gerald Sullivan was honored with the annual Bull ‘N Buck award for his history-changing achievements during his career in the American West. A spirited live auction followed, with many luxe items, including a trip to Montana along the Yellowstone River. The night was capped off with dancing, where revelers cut a rug to the tunes of Roger Creager.
THE PURPOSE: The Bryan Museum Coastal Cowboys Gala, chaired by Kelly Sullivan Georgiades and George Georgiades, raised over $900,000 for the Museum. The proceeds will go toward the museum’s education and outreach programs in the Galveston area and around Texas.