The Most Anticipated Charity Events in Dallas for 2015

Last year I published a very popular post titled, "The Best Charity Events in Dallas". While it was one of my most clicked on posts of the year, it also got me in a bit of hot water. The events that I listed loved it and everyone else got their feelings hurt that I didn't include them. SORRY! In that post I stated, "When I say these are the "best" charity events in Dallas, I am not talking about the most worthy charitable endeavors. Every non-profit organization has great intentions towards an admirable cause. But let's face it, there is only so much time and money one can give. At the end of the day people are looking for an event that not only provides them with a way to give back to a cause or their community but also provides a great experience, delicious food, great people-watching and an amazing experience that still has you talking about months later." I stand by that statement and the sentiment holds true for this year's post. Here are a few events for 2015 listed in calendar order that I can't wait to attend. Buy your tickets early because these luncheons, galas and shows WILL SELL OUT!

The Verdict on Cattle Baron's Ball 2014

Kenny Chesney was the featured performer for CBB 2014

For the past several decades Cattle Baron's Ball had socialites tromping the fields of Southfork Ranch in support of the American Cancer Society. Earlier this year, 2014 Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum shocked the social scene with their announcement that one of our city's most iconic fundraisers would be moving to Gilley's. This bold move had tongues wagging, wondering how the change of venue will affect the vibe of the event.

My guess, is that after several consecutive years of torrential rain the night of this annual outdoor shindig, people were tiring of spending boatloads of money only to have their hair frizz, boots muddied and VIP seating disappear as organizers scrambled at the last minute to shove the event under a tent and throw hay on the ground (which FYI, does not help much). Some called it social career suicide, but Jill and Cindy held firm in there belief that a change was needed.

Their gamble paid off in spades.

WTW: Cattle Baron's Ball

Cindy Stager, Mary Gill, Jill Tananbaum
CBB 2013 (photo Haynsworth Photography)

For the past several decades, Cattle Baron's Ball socialites have tromped across the fields of Southfork Ranch in support of the American Cancer Society. Earlier this year, 2014 Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum shocked the social scene with their announcement that one of our city's most iconic fundraisers would be moving to Gilley's.

This bold move not only has patrons wondering how the change of venue will affect the vibe of the event, but wondering if it also changes the dress code. Kenny Chesney is this year's headliner and the tone will be more "rocker country" than the more traditional "Nashville country". So, what does that mean exactly?

Briggs Freeman VP and CBB Underwriting and Auction Committee Member Robin McMonigle says, "This year's theme is making me think black leather might be the right call. I might wear some cute Rag & Bone cowboy booties with one of their fun updated western felt hats with a leather dress I already own. My advice is to come early and stay late! There is so much to do and see you that this is one event where you don't want to be fashionably late."

You will see everything from jeans to cocktail dresses. With such a variance in attire it can be hard to have confidence in your look - but there are a couple of key factors to consider to help you put together a can't miss look:

Cattle Baron's Announces Kenny Chesney for 2014 Ball

To celebrate the 41st anniversary of Cattle Baron’s Ball, Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum decided to shake things up. Their first shocking announcement was that this annual shin dig would be moved from it's long-time home at Southfork Ranch to Gilley’s.  Why? Maybe because it rains every single year. I can't believe it took someone this long to decide that maybe moving to an indoor venue was a good idea.  Their next bombshell was dropped tonight with the announcement of the entertainer for this year's October 18 event themed "Country Rocks". Get ready, Dallas, to par-tay with Kenny Chesney!!

To learn more about this event, visit http://www.cattlebaronsball.com

Cattle Baron's 2012: The Good, the Bad and the Muddy

Can you believe that until Saturday night, I had never been to Cattle Baron's Ball. Although this is a legendary event around these parts, I have just never had a burning desire to dress up in western wear and drive out to Parker, Texas for some boot scootin'.

This year, I felt like it was something I needed to man up and do, just to cross off the list - when I received an invite to sit at the table of Pucci Lisenbee (I swear to God, that's his real name) and be a guest of Burberry.  Coincidentally, I had just aquired a smokin' hot pair of Bonafide Boots. I took it as a sign that I was meant to go. This was the year.

As you all know, the flood gates opened up and it poured rain all day and into Saturday night. The best thing I can say about this year's Cattle Baron's Ball was that the poor event Chairs, Skye Brewer and Kristen Johnston, did the best they could under the circumstances.