ONE OF THE most feel-good fetes of the year, the 2025 Make-A-Wish Gala once again broke records, raising a whopping $1.8 million for the Gulf Coast and Louisiana chapter of the organization.

The Wish Ball was this year themed The Hero Within, and the ballroom of The Post Oak Hotel was transformed with “galactic, hero-inspired florals” on each table. The night included a surprise appearance by Batman, who pulled into the valet in the Batmobile, much to the delight of “Wish Kid” Adonis, who wished to meet the character in real life.

There were also raffles, pulls and auctions: A beautiful ring from Kim Chau & Co. was raffled off, and guests purchased surprise bags of spirits and jewels. During the live auction and paddles-up portion of the evening, many supported Aria, whose wish to plant 1,000 trees was completed in the ballroom during the event by granting the last 100 trees. A live-painted canvas by Edgar Medina and a mini poodle puppy were popular, too.

Shelly Millwee, President and CEO, said, “What an extraordinary and magical night for Make-A-Wish. The generous funds raised from our event will help grant many wishes and bring joy and hope to more local children facing unimaginable illnesses. We appreciate all our supporters who helped make this evening a tremendous success.”

Adonis Braithwaite with Batman

Tony and Laurie Nevotti, Sarah and Hunter Nevotti

Alix and Miguel Ramos

Amanda, Jason and Franklin Ingalls

Ashley and Jonathan Sloan

Taft and Dana McWhorter

Shelly Millwee and Dan Milwit

Courtney and Jason Jennaro

Dan and Beth Bellow, Mandy Williams, Jason Jennaro, Shelly and Jake Millwee, Stephanie and Dan Milwit

Jennifer and Brian Rayburn

Olivia Loupe, Madeline Varga, Maggie Roark