I have to say since moving here I’m thoroughly impressed with the number of social events that are held to promote culture, philanthropy, and business; values which Houstonians hold dearly. With the local economy booming Houstonians are giving more to charity, holding lavish galas and parties to spur fundraising to record levels. In addition, we have seen many new establishments opening around town. I had the opportunity of attending the Tiger Ball Kick Off Party at Hotel Zaza and the latter part of the opening of Edward Sanchez’s Vanity Lounge at West Ave. in River Oaks. Shelby Hodge from CultureMap Houston covered both events and my good friend Crystal Heydari attended as my guest.
The Asia Society reached a milestone last year with the opening of their Texas Center in the museum district, designed by acclaimed Japanese Architect, Yoshio Taniguchi. Last year’s Tiger Ball had over 1,000 guests; showcasing some of Houston’s wealthiest multi-cultural philanthropists. The gala fundraised over $1.4 million dollars to help further the promotion and understanding of Asian culture throughout the world. This year will be no different in terms of raising money as Gina and Dr. Devinder Bhatia the chairs of the gala and have accepted the mission of raising over $1 million dollars. Guests were treated to champagne, exclusive Tiger Kick-Off cocktails, and an array of hor’s duerves from different cultures. The classical quartet playing renditions of current pop songs set the mood for an elegant, sophisticated, and modern time.
According to Shelby Hodge at CultureMap.com “Getting their party mode on were Margaret Alkek Williams and Jim Daniel, Y. Ping Sun and David Leebron, Carolyn and Jimmy Robertson, Marie and Vijay Goradia, Divya and Chris Brown, Monjula and Ravi Chidambaram, Jo and Jim Furr and Leela and Nat Krishnamurthy.” Leela Krishnamurthy and I met in the car valet and I learned that she devotes her time to philanthropic cultural causes and sits on the Advisory Board for Southwest Regional Chapter of the United States Fund for UNICEF. She’s was an absolute pleasure connect with.
After the Tiger Ball Kick Off party Crystal and I headed over to West Ave. in River Oaks where Edward Sanchez held his grand opening launch party for his Vanity Lounge. They offer a number of beauty and “skin perfection” packages for men and women. It’s no surprise that Edward opened up the Vanity Lounge being that he has a long history of high society and high profile clients. According Melodika.net ,, he has been in the makeup industry for over 20 years. He began his career in make-up at Neiman Marcus and was transitioned into the salon and spa world by famed hair designer Jose Eber. Edward’s clientele has included Joann King Herring, Lynn Wyatt, Diane Lokey Farb, Lindsey Love and several local newscasters and celebrity clients such as Janet Jackson, Joan Rivers, Queen Noor of Jordan, Betty White and George Clooney.” I had the opportunity to meet Edward and congratulate him on his launch. It is no wonder why this talented guy is successful as he has the warm, welcoming and kind personality that is so evident in the people of Houston.
Edward and his business partner, Diane Caplan hosted the hip crowd treating them to a D.J. spinning beats and bites served by Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse which will soon open in West Ave. as well. The expected 150 guests but according to Shelby Hodge “the party moved next door to Katsuya and another 500 revelers arrived were Erica Rose, Deborah Elias, Tama Lundquist with Jack Scalia, Dominique Sachse and Nick Florescu, Diane Lokey Farb, Karina Barbieri, Peter Brown, Franci Willis, Chloe Dao, Miya Shay and Diane Caplan’s proud husband, Michael Caplan.” My friends from Ligne Rose showcased their French chic and modern furniture in the outdoor lounge. I also happen to bump into Chloe Dao before entering as I have met her before at her store Lot 8 when my wardrobe stylist friend from Los Angeles, Jackie Kahn visited her store, Lot 8 which is also next door to my good friends and family’s menswear boutique, The Classroom in Rice Village.
Other familiar faces from Asia Society and Houston’s social scene were Hotelier Naushir & Sneha Merchant, and Henri Merceron (whom I keep bumping into lol). Click here to read the re-cap from CultureMap Houston.
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