Star Power Raises Funds in Support of Local Needs
Keynote Speaker Martha Stewart, inaugural Fashion and Philanthropy Award Winner Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger this iconic Palm Beach Fundraiser Continues to Shine
On Wednesday, February 21, the iconic palace by the sea, the Breakers Hotel beckoned more than 550 of Palm Beach’s most distinguished guests for the highlight of the winter season. The Old Bags Luncheon for the Center for Family Services provides an exceptional silent auction of new and gently used authentic designer handbags. Ladies and gentlemen alike flock to this once-a-year opportunity. The Mediterranean Ballroom known for its extraordinary Renaissance-styled elaborate fresco-painted ceilings and Venetian-style chandeliers filled noteworthy guests at 10:30 am with a Champagne reception with lite bites. The 15-foot arched windows overlooking the Mediterranean Courtyard allowed the perfect amount of light to view handbags from some of the most esteemed global designers.
Recent thirst trap extraordinaire, publishing, broadcasting, merchandising guru, and past Chanel model, Martha Stewart hosted the event as the keynote and celebrity speaker. At 11:15 am 175 VIP guests gathered for Mimosas with Martha, in the Magnolia Room known for its Venetian-style stone fireplace, on the north side of the hotel.
At 12:15 pm the Silent Auction closed and doors opened for the most anticipated luncheon. Todd L’Herrou, CEO and Karen Swanson, Chairman of the Board welcomed the well cladded guests. Philanthropy and Fashion Award winner and honoree Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger received her award presentation, then the IT Bag LIVE Auction commenced with a Special Guest Auctioneer: Alyssa D. Quinlan, CEO of Freeman’s for The Hindman Mission Moment and Raise the Paddle. Then Alyssa D. Quinlan, CEO of Freeman’s Hindman pulled the Chance Drawing winners. Event Chairs included Robin Gillen and Tim Johnson. A Celebrity fireside chat with Fernando Wong (event chair) and Martha Stewart entertained guests as they enjoyed their lunch in the Venetian Ballroom with spectacular views of the serene aqua blue sea. At 2pm a book signing in the Magnolia Room with a VIP experience and book signing for Power in Flowers with Lewis Miller was available for VIP Guests.
Honorary chairs included Tammy Pompea, and Diane Smith. Advisory Chair Karen Swanson; Junio Chair Marissa Murphy-Adriaanse; Auction Chairs Barbara Pendrill, Theodora Pace, and Stephanie Schwed.
The combination of location, design, and renowned guests/hosts created a trifecta for fundraising for the Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County.
Past event sponsors include Saks Fifth Avenue, YVEL, Tiffany & Co. and Palm Beach Media Group..
Notable attendees included: Martha Stewart, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger, Tommy Hilfiger, Liz Quirantes (Emcee, CBS 12), Todd L’Herrou, Ellen Vaughan, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Ramona Singer, Jean Shafiroff, Fernando Wong, Robin Gillen, Robin Gillen and Tim Johnson (Event Chairs), Diane Smith and Tammy Pompea (Honorary Chairs), Alyssa D. Quinlan (CEO, Freeman’s Hindman Auction), Karen Swanson, Sonja Stevens, Arlette Gordon, Lois Pope, Kathryn Vecellio, Marie Unanue, Allison Nicklaus, Barbara Nicklaus, Sarah Wragge, Claire Florence, Karen Rich, Michelle Russell Johnson, David Handy, Donald Dallaire and Richard Johnson. Also in attendance were Holly Holden, interior designer, author and speaker; Suebelle, the authentic but sassy image consultant of Palm Beach.
About The Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County, Inc.
Since 1961, The Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County, Inc. embraces the philosophy that families should be the center of the community and the center of every family should be a healthy connection. The Center provides innovative programs that meet the changing and growing needs of individuals, families, and children in the community with their resources and social service programs. The Center for Family Services is nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation and accredited by Nonprofits First for Excellence in Nonprofit Management.
Photos by Capehart
