Dining Out Dallas Brings The Dallas Culinary Community Together To Raise Funds For The Texas Neurofibromatosis Foundation

Host Chef, Samir Dhurandhar, Corporate Executive Chef and Partner at Nick & Sam's Steakhouse,
with Junior Chef Ethan at Dining Out in Dallas

Chef Robert Clifford from
The Capital Grille Uptown

Dining Out in Dallas was first held in 1995 when founding Chef David Holben enlisted the chef community to share their culinary talents and benefit the Texas Neurofibromatosis Foundation®. The event has grown to become the signature fund-raising event for the Foundation and has raised over $1,490,000 for patient programs and research.

On Wednesday, April 22, 2015 Dining Out in Dallas celebrated 20 years of culinary collaborations with the most creative chefs and finest restaurants in Dallas at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. Guests were able to meet select chefs and sample “house” specialties. After grazing the selections and listening to fun interviews hosted by celebrity emcee LeeAnne Locken, attendees voted for their favorite dish of the night and helped determine which Chef would be awarded the 2015 Best Chef Award.  This year's honor went to Chef Robert Clifford from The Capital Grille Uptown.

So, what is Neurofibromatosis you might be wondering? It is the most common neurological disorder caused by a single gene, and it affects one out of every 3,000 people worldwide. NF is more prevalent than Cystic Fibrosis and Muscular Dystrophy combined. Currently there is no cure, no long-term treatments or any prevention for NF. NF involves the uncontrolled growth of tumors along the nerves anywhere in the body, internal and external, and at any time throughout an individual’s life. It is linked to learning disabilities, high blood pressure and epilepsy, and it can affect the development of the brain, cardiovascular system, bones and skin. NF can result in terrible disfigurement, deformity, deafness, blindness, brain tumors, cancer and even death. To learn more or donate to this organization, visit http://texasnf.org.

AC Couture Studio Offers Dallas Brides New Designer Options

Brides-to-be all over the Metroplex now have a new designer option to shop for their wedding looks. Paulette Martsolf of Allie-Coosh has partnered with Dallas designer Norma Villanueva to launch AC Couture Studio. This new line will specialize in couture evening gowns, special occasion wear, bridal gowns and mother-of-the-bride wear. Materials will include novelty textiles such as silk crepe, silk georgette, beaded and embroidered silks and laces, doupioni, organza and other exotics. Pricing varies depending on the design and time committed yet begins at $1500.

The Studio will also offer custom jewelry designs to accessorize the couture gown. The materials utilized to hand craft the couture offerings are inspired by the coastline of Newfoundland known to Paulette and other natives as ‘The Rock’. This appreciation for natural elements blended with her late husband’s influence as a paleontologist results in necklaces, bracelets and earrings constructed of dinosaur bones, mammoth tusk, antique ivory, raw amber, black jade, pyrite, raw crystal, Ethiopian silver, Mali prayer beads, coral, wood, leather, feathers and other elements of the earth.

Over the span of 22 years the Allie-Coosh brand has evolved from pajamas to every day wear, special occasion wear, a collection of hand crafted jewelry and now couture. Much of Paulette Martsolf ’s loyal following has shopped her style sense and quality for their daily wardrobe, society events and mother-of-the bride-attire, trusting her to the most important moments of their lives. It was in 2011 that Paulette hired who would soon prove to be her couture design colleague—Norma Villanueva. Norma, an El Centro College graduate of fashion design had been creating couture designs for years prior to her engagement at Allie-Coosh. “Her pattern savvy, rare sewing techniques, a deep knowledge of textile dynamics and an effortless ability to translate a client’s need sets her apart.” Paulette shares.

Allie-Coosh is located at 6726 Snider Plaza, Dallas, TX 75205; 214.363.8616; 10:00 am- 6:00 pm; Mon-Sat; http://www.allie-coosh.com/.

12th Annual WINGS Luncheon Soared To New Heights With Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner chats with Gary Cogill at the 12th annual WINGS luncheon

Two-time Academy Award-winning actor, director, and producer Kevin Costner was the keynote speaker of the Friends New Life (NFNL) 12th Annual WINGS Luncheon, raising $1.1 million to support victims of sex trafficking and commercial exploitation, at the Hyatt Regency Dallas on April 10. The sold-out crowd of 1,600 was treated to a “Conversation with Kevin Costner” as he joined local movie producer Gary Cogill on stage. Luncheon Chair The Honorable Jeanne Johnson Phillips joined Honorary Co-Chairs Ruth Altshuler and former First Lady Laura Bush and incoming Board Chair Nancy Ann Hunt in promoting the nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser to date.  The day’s activities began with a VIP Reception where top donors and special guests had a chance to meet Costner and take pictures, followed by a few brief remarks by Costner on stage, facilitated by Jeanne Johnson Phillips, event chair. Costner commented on how movies “can bring us together” and that “each of you feel like you know me from my movies.” He highlighted some of his movies to a captive audience including Ann Barbier, Nancy Best, Suzy Gekiere, Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, Ashlee and Chris Kleinert, Bobby Lyle, Christina Lynch, Sandy Nachman, Lisa Schlachter, Marianne Staubach, Sue Strauss, Gail and Gerald Turner, Lisa Trout, and a couple hundred more.

  

(1) Debra Nelson, Yvonne Crum (2) Hayley Hamilton Cogill, Gary Cogill (3) Micki Rawlings, Nancy Ann Hunt

Look Local Invites You To Discover Downtown Dallas On A Walking Tour May 2

photo Joseph Haubert

Wish you could spend a day in the shoes of a true Downtown dweller? Are you a local history buff? Or maybe you are on the prowl for that perfect place to call home. “Look Local” and discover what is in your own backyard!

Downtown Dallas, Inc. and Preservation Dallas have joined forces to present the Celebrate Downtown! walking Tour. “Look Local” is a must see tour of rooftops and historic places, on Saturday, May 2, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in Downtown Dallas.

Live in the shoes of a true urbanite for a day, and set out on foot to discover some of Downtown's landmark residential properties, rooftop patios and terraces, historic pathways and public plazas, with a few surprises along the way.

Properties on the tour include: 1505 Elm (includes penthouse), Gables Republic Tower, Mercantile Place, SoCo Lofts, 400 N. Ervay, The Continental Building, Dallas Power & Light Flats, Wilson Building, and more! The event ends with a swanky wrap party at Third Rail Lofts. 

EVENT DETAILS
Saturday, May 2, 2015, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Self-guided – with docents at each location 

Wrap Party: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Third Rail Lofts 

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at www.preservationdallas.org 

Ticket price includes all tour activities, refreshments, a goodie-bag and the wrap party. There is a discount for members of Preservation Dallas and Downtown Dallas, Inc. BONUS: Tag your photos along the tour with #celebratemydtd and #mydtd for a chance for your photo to be featured on the Downtown Dallas, Inc. Facebook page.

Breast Cancer Survivors Strip For A Cure

Susie Straubmueller and Jonika Nix

Co-­chairs Susie Straubmueller and Jonika Nix are pleased to announce the inaugural Stripped: Deconstructed | Reconstructed event, an art exhibition, silent auction, and cocktail party benefiting American Cancer Society and Cattle Baron’s Ball, on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at The Goss-­Michael Foundation.

Inspired by her sister, Nancy Johnson, who is now in remission after battling breast cancer, Stripped for Cancer founder Susie Straubmueller set out to reveal the brave stories of breast cancer warriors, while raising crucial research funds to find a cure for this disease that affects one in eight women.

“After watching my sister fight breast cancer, I wanted to launch an event that would bring women together who are affected by this disease to show the rawness and realness of their journey—it’s not a pink and pretty one. But, there is beauty in the strength and grace of these women. The common denominator among all of them is that they are stripped— physically, emotionally, and spiritually—but they are only more empowered by the pain they have all been through,” said Straubmueller.

Vogel Alcove’s Flight to Host Inaugural Gala

Vogel Alcove’s Flight young professional group (YPO) invites the Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) community to “Let Your Dreams Take Flight” at its inaugural fundraising gala on May 16, 2015 at Hall of State in Fair Park. Proceeds will benefit Vogel Alcove, an organization providing free, quality early childhood development services for Dallas’ youngest victims of poverty: homeless children six weeks to five years old. The evening will feature a presentation about Vogel Alcove, dinner, dancing to Goga and his live band, a raffle and photo booth. Tickets include entry to the event, dinner, cocktails and dancing. Individual tickets and event and table sponsorships are available for purchase at www.flightypo.org/gala. Deadline for tickets sales is Friday, May 15.

“In the past year, Vogel Alcove has accomplished amazing goals for the children we serve each day, but one of our most exciting accomplishments was the creation of our Flight YPO,” said Vogel Alcove’s President and CEO Karen Hughes. “We have attracted a passionate group of young people who are taking significant strides to raise awareness and fundraise for our organization. Not only is Flight a networking and service YPO, but it is building future leaders of Vogel Alcove and the community.”

Flight YPO’s mission is to engage young professionals, create awareness in the community for the plight of homeless children, raise funds for Vogel Alcove and grow future leaders. In doing so, members enjoy networking happy hours once a month, volunteer service events; planning, executing and participating in fundraising events such as the Flight of the Alcove Urban Race and more. Fundraising for the inaugural gala event has been highly successful.

Oh So Charitable: UNICEF Children's First 2015

Co-Chairs: Selwyn Rayzor & D'Andra Simmons Lock
Photo: Cooper Neill/Getty Images

I was unable to attend last Friday's first ever Children First gala benefitting UNICEF at Sixty Five Hundred but based on the glowing posts and candid Photobooth pics I saw on Facebook, it was a rousing success.

The event honored American Airlines with the inaugural UNICEF Children First Award for more than a 20 year commitment to raising awareness and funds for children worldwide through UNICEF’s Change for Good® Program. In a press release I received, I was informed that American Airlines’ Vice President of Flight Service, Hector Adler accepted the award on behalf of American Airlines.

More than 300 guests attended and $600,000 was raised for UNICEF’s lifesaving programs that put children first. Dallas notables in attendance included Rich Moses and Selwyn Rayzor, Jeremy Lock D’Andra Simmons Lock, Serena Simmons Connelly, Kimberly Chandler, Jessica Nowitzki, Susan Posnick, Joyce Goss, Barbara Buzzell and Moll Anderson.

Guests enjoyed dinner, a live auction by Auctioneer Louis Murad, as well as a performance by violinist Bobby Yang. Auction packages included a Tyson Chandler and Dallas Mavericks Experience in which the lucky winner won a home game jersey signed by UNICEF Ambassador Tyson Chandler, two tickets to a 2015-16 Dallas Mavericks Road Game and transportation on the Mavericks’ private jet. Additional auction packages included a UNICEF Field Visit to see one of UNICEF’s programs around the world, a trip for two to New York Fashion Week in September 2015, a National Geographic Expedition and a private dinner at Chef Stephan Pyles Restaurant.

(left) Susan Posnick, Shona Gilbert  (right) Joyce Goss, Jessica Nowitzki, Leigh Rinearson, Barbara Buzzell

photos via Instagram

Oh So Charitable: SPCA Paws Cause Kickoff Party

Karen Lufkin, Tiffany Hendra, Marie Reyes, Billy Fulmer, LeeAnne Locken, Cathy Vieth  | photo c/o Cathy Vieth

Last week, Shane Walker and Billy Fulmer hosted Dallas animal lovers at Flower Reign gift and floral shop, for the SPCA of Texas Paws Cause 2015 kickoff party. The party featured a Photomadic photo booth and caricature sketches, bites by Food Glorious Food and champagne donated by Kristen and Scott Greenberg. Among those in attendance were event chair Phyllis Comu, Diane Brierley, LeeAnne Locken, Steve Kemble, Ashley Berges, Karen Lukin, Holly Forsythe, Tiffany Hendra and Rob Bradford. There were even a few four-legged guests in attendance who happily greeted guests with tail wags and lots of licks. Flower Reign donated 20 percent of party proceeds to the SPCA’s Mary Spencer/Neuter and Wellness Clinic at Village Fair in South Dallas. Paws Cause, will take place on Sunday, June 14 at the SPCA’s Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center in West Dallas. Look for more nibbles from Food Glorious Food, musical entertainment by the British Are Coming, a silent auction, the famous Bone Appetit restaurant drawing and more. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased online.

Photomadic fun (left) LeeAnne Locken, Tiffany Hendra, Marie Reyes (right) Phyllis Comu, Cynthia Smoot

Meet "Dior and I" Director Frédéric Tcheng at the USA Film Festival on April 23 and 24

There is a major fashion focus on this year's USA Film Festival and I, for one, could not be more pleased. Last week I shared with you the opportunity to meet 93 year-old style icon, Iris Apfel, and view the new documentary called IRIS about her life and the impact her personal has had on the fashion industry. Today, I want to share with you another fashionable film, DIOR AND I, that will play at the USA Film Festival on April 23 at the Angelikas in Dallas and Plano on April 24. You can meet the director of DIOR AND I, Frédéric Tcheng, who will be conducting Q&As both of these evenings.

Dior and I brings the viewer inside the storied world of the Christian Dior fashion house with a privileged, behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Raf Simons’ first haute couture collection as its new artistic director—a true labor of love created by a dedicated group of collaborators. Granted unprecedented access, the film documents the eight stressful weeks that Simons had to complete his debut collection. Revealing the inner workings of the design house, from the creative processes of its artistic director to the tireless seamstresses of the atelier, the film explores the personal bonds that form between the collaborators, their work, and the legacy of Christian Dior. Melding the everyday, pressure-filled components of fashion with mysterious echoes from the iconic brand’s past, the film is also a colorful homage to the seamstresses who serve Simons’ vision. The film also closely follows Florence Chehet, the dynamic and upbeat première for the atelier flou, and Monique Bailly, the anxious and quick- witted première for the atelier tailleur. “For me, they are the two most important people in the house,” says Pieter Mulier, Raf Simons’ right hand at Dior and longtime collaborator. “Because they have everything in their hands.”

Get Ready For Foodie Fun at Fork & Cork 2015

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Debuting last year as the premiere “foodie festival” in North Texas, Fork & Cork returns May 15 &16, 2015 with more opportunities to learn, enjoy great experience food. Noshing on all the delicious bites, savoring craft beers and wines while strolling through the beautiful park, guests will enjoy fun activities, music and exciting experiences including fire pit cooking tastings straight from the pit with the king of “Smoke” Chef Tim Byres (Smoke, Chicken Scratch, and The Foundry), mixing it up with libation leader Eddie “Lucky” Campbell (Parliament), and cooking demonstrations from Chef John Tesar, Chef Richard Chamberlain, as well as other of Dallas’ best chefs. Whether you’re savoring a bite from a hot new restaurant, striking up a conversation with your favorite chef around the fire, or experiencing grilling through a culinary icon – it all can all happen at Fork & Cork. Guests will enjoy beer, wine and food tastings, hands-on demonstrations and all-star entertainment on Friday and Saturday, May 15 & 16, at Addison Circle Park. Tickets start at $15.

Get 15% off tickets when you use the code: FCBLOGGER15

Oh So Charitable: Accessible Luxury 2015

Accessible Luxury was created to celebrate Dallas retailers and to bring together individuals with luxurious tastes in fashion, cars, cuisine and gems to benefit Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. This year's soiree will be led by event chair, Jackson, and honorary chairs Clarice Tinsley and Stephan Giles. Join us on Saturday, May 2 at the luxurious Park Place Premier Collection at 5300 Lemmon Avenue. Party goers will have a night of impeccable fun with a myriad of exciting activities like the Maserati Man Cave featuring Beretta. This male-dominated cavern will showcase Beretta’s polished apparel, guns and gear. You will also enjoy specialty drinks and hand-rolled cigars. Maybe you'd prefer the Bentley Bubble Room featuring dazzling jewelry and champagne? Or perhaps the Jaguar Jungle Lounge where you can party on the patio and enjoy a coffee bar and nibbles. Everyone will be dazzled at the Rolls-Royce Runway Show featuring Highland Park retailers. The McLaren Moonlight Room will offer the chance to enter a raffle as well as bid on the Big Board for some luxurious items. Don't forget to take a photo in the Photomadic photo booth and post it to your social media channels (#AccessibleLuxury).

Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy a special VIP experience for $500 each which includes 2 event tickets, access for 2 guests to VIP hour, priority runway show seating for 2, luxury swag bag, bourbon and Champagne Tasting and one (1) complimentary raffle ticket. Reserved runway show seating is guaranteed for sponsors and VIP ticket holders only. Individual tickets are $125 and provide standing room only at the runway show. Get more information or purchase tickets at http://www.accessibleluxury.org/. TSRHC is a world leader in the treatment of pediatric orthopedic conditions. Since 1921, TSRHC has treated children with orthopedic conditions, such as scoliosis, clubfoot, hand disorders, hip disorders and limb length differences, as well as certain related neurological disorders and learning disorders, such as dyslexia. Admission is open to children from birth up to 18 years of age. TSRHC, the only Scottish Rite hospital in the world, is not affiliated with the Shriners Hospitals for Children. I love that they will treat any patient - regardless of the family's ability to pay.

Oh So Charitable: Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational on May 8-9

Pat and Emmitt Smith have some playful moments on the set of a recent photo shoot
photos c/o Pat Smith

Two of my favorite people on the planet are Pat and Emmitt Smith. These two embody the bible verse found in Luke 12:48, "To whom much is given, much will be required."  Both Pat and Emmitt come from humble, working-class beginnings and are determined to use their hard-earned success and national platform to raise awareness and funds for children who need a leg up to see their potential and give them a reason to dream big.  Pat and Emmitt Smith Charities is a 501 (c)(3) that supports programming for underserved children. They fund summer camps, after school programming, college tuition and other educational programming that impacts over 25,000 children annually through the charity. Emmitt is fond of saying, "You have to see it, to dream it." The Team 22 Mentoring program personally launched and supported by Pat and Emmitt Smith has doubled in capacity over the past year. The students have had the opportunity to have experiences with both President George W. Bush and President Obama this year, to visit Washington DC and be spotlighted at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra as up and coming youth.

Oh So Tasty: Brunch at Eureka!

I highly recommend Eureka's Creole Benedict. Like, two thumbs way up...

Eureka!, the new modern American restaurant located in the heart of West Village on the corner of Blackburn and McKinney, recently added weekend brunch from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to their offerings. On the menu you'll find contemporary classic breakfast entrées, Bloody Marys and Mimosas, and a selection of more than 40 craft beers to take advantage of the outdoor patio for a breezy al-fresco dining experience.

Invest $5 in Eureka's Bloody Mary

The brunch menu features new breakfast offerings including Huevos Rancheros with bison steak chili, fried eggs, ranchero sauce, black beans, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, avocado, and sour cream; Creole Benedict featuring fried green tomato, Virginia ham, Creole mustard hollandaise, breakfast potatoes, and a side of arugula; Brunch Ham & Cheese topped with a fried egg, served with Monterey Jack cheese, Virginia ham, Alfredo sauce, Texas toast, and a side of arugula.

Also featured in the menu are signature favorites like the Jalapeño Egg Burger with a fried egg, cheddar cheese, bacon, spicy chipotle sauce, jalapeños, served with signature handcut fries and the All Day Breakfast Burrito served with flat iron steak, potatoes, fried egg, and ranchero sauce. Additionally, Eureka! offers delectable brunch entrées including Bananas Foster Crunchy French Toast topped with pecans, spiced rum syrup, and homemade whipped cream as Orange Pecan Granola with Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and honey.

Turn Tragedy Into Triumph Through Organ Donation

Did you realize that nearly 124,000 men, women and children are awaiting organ transplants in the United States for a chance at a new life. April is National Donate Life Month created to help encourage Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors and to celebrate those that have saved lives through the gift of donation. And today, April 17th, is #BlueAndGreenDay when the public is encouraged to wear blue and green in an effort to spread awareness about organ, eye and tissue donation and transplantation.

Tiffany Hendra, LeeAnne Locken, Steve Kemble
Cynthia Smoot, Dawn Neufeld wear blue and
green in support of organ donation

I was asked to participate in a photo shoot last week with Dallas influencers including Steve Kemble, Dawn Neufeld, Leah Frazier, LeeAnne Locken and Tiffany Hendra (among others) to help raise awareness for the cause.

Trend Next's Shamequia Cason was the event organizer and her mission is personal. Cason suffered from kidney disease for 9 years - 5 of those years was as a dialysis patient - and is the recipient of a kidney transplant. Today she lives a happy, healthy life as a result!

My personal belief is that you are not your body. Your physical body is like a dress. And once your soul leaves your human body, you don't need the dress anymore. So, just like you donate old clothing to charity, why wouldn't you done your body to help those who remain on earth? If I can turn the tragedy of my death into life for other families because someone received my heart, kidney, liver, eyes... I saw TAKE IT! What a beautiful gift to bless another person with - life!

Visit DonateLifeTexas.org for more information or to register as a organ donor TODAY!

Fight Night at the Majestic Puts Dallas Boxer in the Spotlight

On April 11, 1921, the new Majestic Theater opened its’ doors during the Vaudeville era. In its 91-year history, the Majestic Theater has hosted a variety of acts from Harry Houdini to Mae West to Bob Hope – but until now, the venue has never hosted a live professional boxing match.  On Saturday, April 25th Big Card Promotions will present FIGHT NIGHT AT THE MAJESTIC at the historic Majestic Theatre in downtown Dallas. This electric evening will showcase the return of Dallas native Roberto Marroquin (24-3-1) against Marcos Leonardo Jimenez (20-5) for the vacant USBA Jr. Lightweight Championship. Attendees will be transported back in time with the “Big Card Bombshells” Burlesque Ring Card Girls and surrounded by the elegant ambiance of this beautiful historical venue in which the ring will be placed on the stage.

Dallas-native Roberto Marroquin

Roberto Marroquin is a Mexican American professional boxer from Dallas, TX who fights in the Super Featherweight Division. Marroquin, a former top-ten rated Top Rank boxer, unsuccessfully challenged Guillermo Rigondeaux for the WBA Super Bantamweight World Championship. With the USBA Jr. Lightweight Championship title on the line, this still hungry young fighter is focused on getting back in the mix for another world title shot.

Other exciting fights on the night’s card will include Chad Trahan (7-1) vs. Latin Mundy (8-9), Christopher Jones (3-1) vs. Jerome Davis (6-3) and in separate bouts 2012 National Golden Gloves Champion George Rincon (1-0) vs. Rashad Jones (pro debut) and James Gray (pro debut) vs. Arthur Parker.

The Majestic Theatre is located at 1925 Elm St., Dallas, Texas 75201. Tickets start at $25 and are available on Prekindle or by calling 888-454-4353 from 10AM – 6PM Monday through Friday. Doors open at 6PM / First Fight at 7PM. Fight Card Subject to Change.

UPDATE: On the morning of April 25, Big Card Promotions announced that at yesterday’s pre-fight weigh-in, Marroquin weighed in at the 130 lb. limit and Jimenez weighed in at 132.5 lbs. Jimenez was given two hours to make the contracted weight, and finally weighed-in at 131.75 lbs. Several attempts were made to save the bout, but ultimately Marroquin refused to participate and turned down an offer from Big Card to double his purse resulting in the bout’s cancellation. Middleweights Christopher Jones (3-1, 2 KO's) and Jerome Davis (6-3, 1 KO’s) have seized this opportunity and will participate in an eight round main event. Jones is a former competitor in the World with over a decade of experience beneath his belt. The event will go on as scheduled.

Estate Sales Go Digital With Everything But The House

Sponsored post:

"One man's trash is another man's treasure" is a motto I have always ascribed to. There's nothing more thrilling than finding an amazing treasure at a great price at a yard sale/garage sale/estate sale. A new company called Everything But The House (EBTH), is taking the thrill of discovery online. Everything But the House (EBTH) is a revolutionary online estate and consignment sale company that combines the personal touch of a local business with the convenience and reach of a global e-commerce company. EBTH presents sales based out of Cincinnati, Atlanta, Southwest Florida, Columbus, Lexington, Louisville, Indianapolis and Nashville, and is rapidly expanding to additional cities in 2015 - INCLUDING DALLAS IN MAY! With 60-75 sales a month and all items starting at $1, bidders from across the world find that there’s always something new to discover at www.EBTH.com.

Andy Warhol Signed & Numbered Screen Print
Price Realized: $17,400

SELLING ON EBTH
When a seller reaches out to EBTH, the first thing they do is schedule a free consultation. Their team learns more about the seller and their situation and does an initial evaluation of the items in their home. Once they have determined if EBTH is a good fit for both parties, they set a sale date and get to work.

Estate sales are a good fit when sellers have a house full of items to sell. EBTH experts work in their homes to sort, photograph, catalog (research and describe) all of the pieces that will go up for sale on EBTH. Importantly, they don’t just handle the items for sale; they arrange for pick-up of items that need to be donated or thrown away, and leave the home completely empty and clean when they are finished. They handle, literally, everything but the house.

Once cataloging is complete, they upload images and descriptions to EBTH. All items start at a price of $1 and sales last for seven days. There are no reserve prices! When the sale ends, they collect payment from the buyers, manage the pick-up process, arrange for any items that are being shipped, and process payouts to sellers. When sellers have just a few items or a small collection to sell, EBTH can arrange for a consignment sale. Sellers drop off items at their warehouse, where they sort, photograph and catalog these pieces and present them for sale on the EBTH website in the same fashion as larger estate sales. They work with a wide range of sellers. It’s not just homes full of antiques or museum-quality collections. Sometimes, homeowners have gems hidden in attics, buried in boxes in the basement, or even right under their noses on the bookshelf. Typically, their sellers are experiencing a major life event—a death in the family; moving an aging parent out of their home; retiring; moving across the country; relocating to a new, smaller home; beginning a new marriage. Generally, the sale proceeds are 3-5 times more than traditional estate sales, and their fee is 35 percent of final sale proceeds (much less than a traditional consignment shop).

Parisian Chic Stormed the 27th Annual Mad Hatters Tea

You know what they say, "April showers brings May flowers," so holding the annual Mad Hatters Tea and Fashion Show outside in April is always a dicey affair. This year was no exception with Event Chair Sharon Popham,  Honorary Chair Sherwood Wagner and Woman's Council President Marena Gault fretting up until the last minute, terrified that looming storm clouds were going to dump buckets of rain on the Ginsburg Plaza and all of their well-heeled guests. It did sprinkle off and on several times, but Mother Nature was much too well-mannered to ruin everyone's good time. This event is an all-day affair benefiting the Womens Council of the Dallas Arboretum and it kicks off with a champagne reception, goes into a professionally staged and choreographed fashion presentation produced by the inimitable Jan Strimple, and is then followed by a seated luncheon. Mad Hatters is always one of my favorite events of the year. It's the one time of the year where it's not about your dress but your hat and honey, these women come to play! Among those roaming the plaza in couture culinary finery was Faye Briggs, Carmaleta Whiteley, LeeAnne Locken, D'Andra Simmons Lock, Dawn Neufeld, Dallas Dirt editor Candy Evans, fashion blogger Tiffany Hendra, Karen Lukin, and fashion designer Ese Azenabor. There was also a spattering of dapper gents there as well to even out the playing field including Steve Kemble, WFAA's Ron Corning, Shane Walker, Billy Fulmer and Jeff Shell.

Shout out to Billy Fulmer and Shane Walker of Flower Reign
for designing my beautiful hat complete with live flowers

I was especially thrilled to be one of the esteemed judges in the uber-competitive hat contest. Judging alongside me was Regen Horchow Fearon, founder of the Institute for Interesting People; Lucy Billingsly, Dallas developer extraordinaire; Matilda Louree, former Arboretum board member and docent; Brenda Bogart, artist and former interior designer for Trish Wilson; Kim Harmon Gatlin, best-selling author of Good Christian Bitches; Megan McDonald, Manager of Saint Laurent Boutique in Highland Park Village; and the delightful Jane Rozelle, Society Editor of PaperCity Magazine.

They gave us name tags, but I took mine off so I could roam the courtyard incognito to select my winner. I had the (coolest) category of Most Outlandish and I thought that Carmen Surgent was a shoe-in. I mean she had the whole freakin' city of Paris on her head in a 4'x4' hat created by floral designer Shane Walker. It must have weighed 15 pounds! However, once the judges convened, Lucy Billingsly wanted her for Best of Show and since it was kind of a show stopper - I succumbed and went with my second choice of Kunthear Douglas who used her son's LEGOS to design and create her Hermes hat (see below) complete with an illuminated Eiffel Tower.

Fashion Muse Iris Apfel Comes To Dallas on April 24 for the USA Film Festival

IRIS is a new documentary by Albert Maysles that tells the story of 93-year old Iris Apfel. Maysles film takes viewers into her world and along her journey from interior decorator and world-traveler to fashion muse and style icon. You can catch an advance screening of IRIS at the USA Film Festival on Friday, April 24 (7:15pm) at the Angelika Theater at Mockingbird Station. Jan Strimple will conduct a Q&A with Iris Apfel after the film.  When Iris was a young woman from Queens, New York, starting out in the fashion industry, Frieda Loehmann, founder of the famed department store, told her one day, “You're not pretty and you'll never be pretty, but it doesn't matter. You have something much better. You have style.”  Iris is known for mixing patterns and colors and her love of statement jewelry. "I like individuality and it's lost these days," bemoans Apfel in the film. "There's so much sameness these days. Everything is homogenized. I hate it."

Click here for tickets* to see an advance screening of IRIS at the USA Film Festival on Friday, April 24 (7:15pm) at the Angelika Theater at Mockingbird Station. Jan Strimple will conduct a Q&A with Iris Apfel after the film.*After April 20, tickets must be purchased (cash only) at the door  

AIDS Services of Dallas Throws a Sweet Bollywood Bash

Guests descended upon the Frontiers of Flight Museum on Saturday, March 28 for the 10th Annual No Tie Dinner & Dessert Party, presented by the Purple Foundation. This year, the “Meet Me Under the Yum Yum Tree” theme lent the bash an exotic, Bollywood flair in fashion, music, cocktails to raise funds for AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD). Close to 2,000 guests indulged in a vast array of delectable desserts from 20 of the city’s finest establishments including Bread Winners Cafe, Celebrity Café & Bakery, and Komali, among others. The event was led by an all-star committee including Co-Chairs David Nelson and Dennis Kershner, Honorary Chairs Jody and Sterling O’Donnell, and Media Ambassador Amy Vanderoef. Joe Pacetti received the Sheila Dolezal Humanitarian Award for his volunteerism and unbounded support throughout the years. Other notable sociables included ASD President and CEO Don Maison, Tricia Sims and beau Richard Burcham, Don Neubauer, Patricia Deason, Todd Whitley, Prashi Shah, LeeAnne Locken, Marie Reyes, Tiffany Hendra, Cary Deuber, Stephanie Hollman, Brandi Redmond and many others.

  

Oh So Tasty: C'Viche

According to the very enthusiastic press release I got, C'Viche is "a new slice of heaven on lower Greenville Ave." Slice of heaven? That's a pretty big claim, so I decided to take them up on their dinner invitation and check it out for myself.

The Latin-American style of food at C'Viche is all made in-house from the freshest ingredients and the place has a laid-back, casual vibe. According to owner Randall Warder, specialties include the Shrimp Aquachiles, featuring spicy jalapeño shrimp, cilantro, and pomegranate; or the Gulf Oyster Cocktail, with lemon, horseradish, tomato, onion, and jalapeño. If you want something smaller and less expensive, try Warder's signature Chicken Tinga (his family's favorite) or Fried Egg Tacos. DOn't overlook fantastic sides selections such as Street Style Sweet Corn and the Texas-inspired Avocado Fries. You can't go to a place called C'Viche and not have ceviche! You choose from an assortment of fish, scallops, tuna or shrimp -- prepared C'Viche or Crudo style -- in your choice of one of four inventive flavor styles: Baja with lime, tomato, onion, jalapeño, avocado, cilantro;  Peruvian featuring lime, shaved red onion, corn, aji chile, and cilantro; Island with orange, lime, coconut water, mango, ginger, serrano, and basil or Asian including lemon, ginger, tamari, red chili, cucumber, red onion, and micro herbs. It's a hearty-sized bowl that you can eat as an entree or share with others as an appetizer.

Oh So Charitable: SHONA Brings The Bling For Breasts

Tiffany Hendra and LeeAnne Locken ooh and ahh over pieces from the collection. 

Lovers of baubles and beads and shiny things gathered at the home of Dr. Mark and Cary Deuber to peruse and shop the Spring/Summer Collection of Shona Gilbert, creator of SHŌNA jewelry. A portion of the proceeds went to benefit The Doris Daniely Outreach for Breast Reconstruction. Among those in attendance battling it out for Shona's coveted designs were LeeAnne Locken, Tiffany Hendra, Stephanie Hollman, Brandi Redmond, Heidi Snadon, Marie Reyes, and fashion stylist Laurie Graham. On display was SHŌNA's new “Revolver” line. "This is go-to, everyday jewelry that when worn daily becomes your absolute 'I can’t leave home without it' favorites," said Gilbert. "This collection is titled 'Revolver' but it seems everyone has nicknamed it 'Go To Jewelry' and I love that!" The collection consists of needles with gemstones and diamonds, diamond double-ball earrings, and or gold diamond ear climber earrings and little baby colored diamond rings. Diamonds, silks and stones make up the whimsical feel of SS tassels. "I think I was a twenties flapper in a previous life," laughed Gilbert. "I just keep re-inventing the tassel necklace with every life challenging inspiration."

Dr. Mark Deuber, Carol Autry and Cary Deuber

The Doris Daniely Outreach for Breast Reconstruction generates financial and educational resources related to breast reconstruction following a diagnosis of breast cancer. Their purpose is to provide financial assistance to women in the North Texas area and to educate the community regarding breast reconstruction. Dr. Deuber is one of several plastic surgeons in the Dallas-area who provides reconstructive surgeries for their recipients to help them get back their sense of identity and self-esteem after battling breast cancer.

"Cary and I donate our time and services to help these post mastectomy patients reclaim their self esteem," said Dr. Mark Deuber, "The costs of reconstruction go far beyond the physicians fees to include medical devices and hospital fees, easily running into tens of thousands of dollars. We support Doris Daniely Outreach because this organization is the only option for some of our patients to cover these costs."  To learn more about this organization, visit http://www.dorisdanielyoutreach.com.

Oh So Fashionable: The Pin Show 2015

On April 4, 2015, The Bomb Factory played host to The Pin Show with a unique fashion experience. Originating as a liaison for independent designers to gain access to stylists, artists, retail buyers and the like, this unique Dallas fashion show has gained tremendous momentum and a devoted following and support by those in the Dallas fashion industry. After a record number of applications, The Pin Show's 2015 line up included designers from all over the country and the newly renovated Bomb Factory in Deep Ellum provided the perfect venue to spotlight these up and coming designers. The show included 12 new designers and 10 veteran designers for a total of 22 lines hitting the runway. The Pin Show founder, Julie McCulloch told CultureMap, "That speaks volumes about where Dallas' independent fashion scene is right now." Musical guests Zhora & Friends brought along some friends to create a one of a kind experience while the models took to the runway in the form of neon-clad dancers. Each designer showcased 6 - 10 looks on the runway featuring menswear, women's Ready-To-Wear, avant-garde, jewelry, swimwear, outerwear, and resort wear. Featured designers included: Ana Pesqueira, Beaus+Ribbons, Carmen Iris, Civil Revolution, Copper Signatures, EcoArmoire, Elle Luxx, Evoli, folksie, Hardly Alice, Indigo1745, Kae and Jae Mahogany, Blues Swimwear, Marek+Richard, Megan Surber, Melancholic Design, Nita Marie, Sacred Heart Collection, Sam Morgan, This One Woman, thrIII and yomono. Peruse the photo gallery below to see what you missed. Click on any image to enlarge the photo and flip through the gallery.

The Crowd:

HGTV HOME Plant Collection Wants You To Turn Up the Garden Color this Spring

Sponsored Post 

It’s that glorious time of year when your garden wakes up from its winter slumber and beckons you back to planning, planting and spending time achieving new looks on patios, decks, porches and in beds around the yard. What are the hot new color trends for 2015 that are influencing color everywhere, from your closet and home décor right out the door into your garden?

1. Bold, primary colors like green, blue and yellow 
2. Rich jewel tones including lavender and teal 
3. Rustic earth tones like burnt orange that reflect colors in nature 
4. Updated, modern pastels

Those are the color palettes influencing this spring’s fashion, home décor and garden color trends. And it’s all by design. Take the HGTV HOME Plant Collection’s Expressions Annuals combinations, available now at Southwest The Home Depot stores for the first time this spring. The Plant Collection works with HGTV HOME design director Nancy Fire to combine the latest color palettes and design trends with their plant genetics for annual mixes bursting with on-trend color. Nancy Fire provided some great suggestions for matching annuals’ colors and styles to on-trend containers to achieve a total look. When you purchase your annuals this year, notice the style, texture and color palette. Is it fun or is it sophisticated? Is it modern or romantic?

Dallas Designer Gets A Nod From Hollywood's Vivica A. Fox

photo of Vivica A. Fox c/o Ese Azénabor on Instagram

After seeing her last collection, I have said to several people that I believe Dallas fashion designer, Ese Azénabor, will be the next big thing to come out of Dallas. I predict that you WILL see her designs on the Oscars red carpet next year. She is just. that. good. And on Saturday, April 5, she proved that she is well on her way when her collection was featured at the 8th Annual Designer's Choice Fashion Preview in Little Rock, Arkansas. The show benefits The Timmons Arts Foundation founded by Theresa Timmons, which supports at-risk youth through the arts. According to the Examiner, "Actress, Vivica A. Fox came out to show her support this year by hosting the show and dazzling the crowd with her wit and sass." Azénabor outfitted Fox in two outfits: the black dress in the photo above is from her #FW15 collection titled 'Oh Scarlet' and the white Aztec-beaded cocktail dress is from her #FW14 collection called 'Stand on higher ground'. While Fox looked pretty amazing, I bet she didn't get an entire segment on a morning show talking about her outfit like I did when I wore Azénabor to DIFFA. Just sayin'...  I am thrilled to see such a talent continue to get the A-List recognition she deserves. You go, girl! To learn more about this talented designer visit www.EseAzenabor.com.

Oh So Chic: BelAir

Helmed by sisters Shannon VanBeber and Melani McDougal, BelAir has become a resource for those looking for unusual, unique and exclusive items in the areas of home decor, furniture, clothing and accessories. The story of BelAir’s evolution has almost taken a page from the story of Goldilocks and the 3 Bears. Their first location opened in 2012 on Lower Greenville in a small space across from Terilli's. Their intent was to have a space to meet with clients to work on interior design projects. The main problem was that the space was too small to fit more than a handful of furniture pieces in it and they were surrounded by restaurants and bars - so walk up traffic was virtually non-existent.  Scarcely a year later, they packed up and moved to a small cottage on West Lovers Lane. The new space afforded them more square footage to showcase home accessories. It was here they decided to expand into clothing, jewelry, shoes and handbags. In 2013 they were named Best Home Accessories Shop from D Magazine and Best Shop for a Little Bit of Everything in 2014.

Limited by space restrictions at their former bungalow location, they jumped at the opportunity to move a few doors up the road when Wild Birds Unlimited decided to vacate the 2-story store located at 4719 W. Lovers Lane at Linwood. The 2,300 square foot house is packed with lines that are beautiful, functional, and cool. “I don’t like rules when it comes to design,” Shannon explains. “If you love it, do it. Mix it up. Be expressive but keep it beautiful.” Melani sources most of the store’s lines and has a knack for discovering under-the-radar brands and creating exclusive partnerships with companies unknown to Dallas. BelAir is the perfect place to shop for gifts for the hard-to-buy for person in your life. You'll find unique and fabulous finds that you can't find anywhere else around town and price's that won't break the bank.

BelAir is located at 4719 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas, Texas 75209. 214-827-7420. Their new website should be up in about a week at www.shop-BelAir.com. In the meantime, keep up with what's new by following them on Instagram @BelAirHome.


Note: BelAir is a client of Gangway Advertising and I am lucky enough to work with them to help create buzz for their brand through public relations and media outreach campaigns.