parties

40, Fabulous — and Touting a Never-Before-Seen Bidding War — the Heart Ball Was a Bash to Beat 'Em All

Daniel Ortiz and Wilson Parrish
40, Fabulous — and Touting a Never-Before-Seen Bidding War — the Heart Ball Was a Bash to Beat 'Em All

Dance floor at the Heart Ball

ON THE EVENING of the American Heart Association's 40th-annual Houston Heart Ball, event chair Kelly Hackett gleefully welcomed more than 500 guests — many clad in rich shades of the night's signature color, red — to the ballroom of the Hilton Americas.

The gala also toasted the 100th anniversary of the national organization, and raised $1.25 million to further its life-saving work.

The night began with electric tunes courtesy of Demola, Houston's hippest violinist, who serenaded guests to their tables with a rendition of "I've Got a Feelin." Khambrel Marshall directed the evening from the stage, where featured speaker Wallis Marsh took to the mic to share his story of survival. Later, 16 honorees received a standing ovation for their tireless dedication to working toward health equity, whether that's via food security or heart health.

A live auction brought on a different kind of excitement and emotions. Led by Logan Thomas, the lively event touted vacations, jewelry and more. One especially fun moment was when gala chair Hackett engaged in a bidding war with Peter Fluor, all over a pair of ruby-and-diamond earrings, donated by Diamonds Direct. She eventually won — and walked over to Fluor to gift him the baubles!

Tunes courtesy of Midtown 10 Band, followed by a big balloon drop, closed out the evening.

Tim Singletary and JoAnne Houck

Alicia and Esmaeil Porsa

Angela and Chad Cole

Steve and Janna Roberson

Beth Wolff and Cheryl Byington

Russ Laberasca, DJ Warner and Damien LaPar

Leila Gilbert, Mona Williams, Liz Jameson

Beverly and Jim Postl

Kelly Hackett and Danielle Hammons

Bruce Padilla and Courtney Cole Hall

Jennifer and David Balevic

Jody Merritt and Christine Johnson

Judy and Russ Labrasca

Meryl Johnson and David McPherson

Julia Andrieni and Robert Phillips

DeeDee and Wallis Marsh with Jack and Julia

From Your Site Articles
Parties
promoted

Fall Philanthropy Report: March of Dimes’ ‘Signature Chefs’ Event Coming in November

Fall Philanthropy Report: March of Dimes’ ‘Signature Chefs’ Event Coming in November

What year was your organization launched? 1938

What is your mission? March of Dimes was founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, to combat polio. The name “March of Dimes” was suggested by entertainer Eddie Cantor as a way to encourage people to donate even a small amount, like a dime, to help fight polio.

Keep Reading Show less
promoted

Fried Chicken, Fancy Bubbles, and a Side of Glamour: Sundays at The Marigold Club Just Got Fun

Chef-owner Austin Waiter of The Marigold Club, now serving fried chicken and Champagne on Sunday nights.


IF YOUR SUNDAY nights could use a little sparkle—and a lot of fried chicken—The Marigold Club has just the thing. Starting May 25 at 5pm, the Montrose hotspot known for its playful mix of Southern charm and London polish is rolling out a new weekly tradition: Fried Chicken & Champagne Sundays.

This isn’t your average comfort food situation. We're talking a shareable fried chicken dinner for two, made with farm-raised birds from Deeply Rooted Ranch, and served alongside buttery whipped potatoes, minted peas, aged cheddar scones, and some over-the-top sauces — including a foie gras sauce supreme that’s as extra as it sounds.

Keep Reading Show less
Food
promoted

Spa-tacular Getaway Opportunity: Retreat to Mexico this Fall with a Houston Wellness Expert

Palmaïa The House of AïA

THIS FALL, LEBRINA Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, is taking her wisdom and joie de wellness to the jungle. Far beyond the walls of her beautiful spa, she’s aiming to create a quiet space for people to work on their personal growth in a community-centric atmosphere. She shares what participants will get out of the trip and why it’s important to take time for self-care in 2025.

Why is it important for people to “retreat”? Life can feel like a non-stop marathon, and sometimes we forget to just... breathe. Retreating offers a chance to step off the treadmill for a bit and hit the reset button. It's about giving your body and mind some much-needed TLC, allowing for genuine relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond the personal perks, retreats often create a cool sense of community, connecting you with others on a similar path. By carving out space for self-reflection, you can recharge and return to your daily life with a clearer head and a bit more pep in your step.

Keep Reading Show less
Wellness+Giving Back