parties

Justin Garcia's Rooftop Homecoming Draws Hip Crowd

Justin Garcia's Rooftop Homecoming Draws Hip Crowd

Beth Muecke, Justin Garcia

HANDSOME HOUSTON ARTIST Justin Garcia held a homecoming of sorts at Downtown’s Z on 23. He’s been on a world tour with Orphaned Starfish Foundation, the nonprofit that helps orphans, survivors of trafficking, and refugees break their cycles of abuse and poverty. Garcia is traveling to all 80 of the foundation’s programs around the world, creating unique art pieces that aim to capture each program's unique feel with color, shape and words.

The first part of the project was on display at a hip rooftop cocktail party that brought out art enthusiasts, creatives and culture lovers. Garcia’s evocative pieces were showcased against Houston’s skyline as guests sipped cocktails from Frio Vodka. And a giant shot wall — also created by Garcia — illuminated in the shape of the state of Texas. Cheers!

Z on 23 is located atop Le Méridien Houston Downtown. The hotel is covering its elevators and room keys with Garcia’s work. In a statement, the hotel said the initiative is part of its “mission to spark inspiration through artistic exploration.”

Garcia has a longstanding connection to the hotel, as Steven Visneau photographed Garcia for an eight-page fashion story in CityBook at Le Méridien when it opened in 2017!

Victoria Bhagat, Jourdan Lugo, Mindy Garza, Diana Yera

Justin Garcia, Kenny Owen, Brian Ching

Bruce Banta-Guevara & Oscar Banta-Guevara

Dimitri Bozonelos, Konstantina Lagou, Justin Garcia, Katie & Mark Canady

Art + Entertainment
promoted

Fall Philanthropy Report: Be An Angel Improves Quality of Life for Children with Special Needs

Fall Philanthropy Report: Be An Angel Improves Quality of Life for Children with Special Needs

What year was your organization launched? 1986 by a small group of committee community members that believed special needs children were not receiving basic life services.

Keep Reading Show less
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
parties

Gelato and Giving Back: Una Notte Italiana for Vita Living

Brian Crawmer, Sarah Crawmer, Marilyn, and David Guion

VITA LIVING WELCOMED over 300 guests to its annual Pearls of Wisdom Fiesta at the River Oaks Country Club. This year’s dinner — themed Una Notte Italiana — raised more than $207,000 in support of lifelong care for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties