This summer the picturesque and quaint town of Southrop, a small village in the Cotswolds, was overwhelmed with supermodels, celebrities, rockstars and fashion designers, who arrived in droves for the wedding of Kate Moss and Jamie Hince.  The romantic country wedding took place in a 12th century village church with a reception afterwards at Kate’s estate home.

The bride wore a Zelda Fitzgerald-inspired gown designed by her friend John Galliano while the groom wore a blue suit by YSL.  Six Rolls Royces chauffered the bridal party to the church ceremony.  Back at the house, a lavish tent was set up with Victorian chandeliers, dinner tables covered in pale yellow linens and black bistro chairs.  Delicate apricot nosegays and lilac roses in antique glass vases topped each table.

A six tiered cake – each a different flavor – was created by Penny Porschen.  The mixology team from Bar Hemingway at the Ritz Paris concocted the Kate76, made of vodka, champagne, crushed ice and sugar, as the cocktail of the night.

In the field behind the house, teepees were set up for the kids – many of whom were flower girls dressed in Bonpoint dresses and floral headpieces, including her daughter Lila Grace.  Votive candles in jam jars and antique lanterns were hung from the fruit trees to create a soft lit, dreamy atmosphere.

Guests included Marc Jacobs, Naomi Campbell, Jude Law, Mark Ronson, Christian Louboutin, Carine Roitfeld, Paul McCartney and his daughter Stella McCartney, who was a bridesmaid.  After the first dance to “If There is Something,” sung by Bryan Ferry, party-goers danced the night away to music by DJ’s Annie Nightingale, Nick Grimshaw, and Queens of Noise.

For more on the Kate Moss wedding, visit Vogue.com.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Mario Testino for Vogue

]]> http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2011/10/19/a-country-wedding-for-kate-moss/feed/ 0 http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2011/09/23/krugs-desert-dinner-party/ http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2011/09/23/krugs-desert-dinner-party/#comments Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:06:07 +0000 Celia Chen http://www.notesonaparty.com/?p=2485 read more]]>

Choosing an unusual location for an event can add something special to the experience.  For guests that attended a recent dinner party in the remote desert in Northern Nevada, the experience was nothing short of spectacular.

Seizing the opportunity to entertain the creative spirits and bon vivants that had descended upon Black Rock Desert for Burning Man, the annual art event and temporary community based on self-expression, Carl Heline from Krug and his friends Phil Winser and Ben Towill from The Fat Radish embarked on an ambitious three-day build out for their dinner party in the desert.

Dressed in outrageous costumes, 120 guests boarded the Krug Art Bus and were driven to the picturesque Zoo Camp for a seated dinner prepared by the chefs at The Fat Radish, a hip restaurant in Manhattan’s Lower East Side.  Bottles of Krug Cuvee were poured during the incredible sunset as guests dined and danced into the night.

As a parting gift, dog tag necklaces were handed out with the message, “I am an Animal, if lost take back to the Zoo.”

See coverage in W Magazine here.

See post from Taryn Cox The Wife here.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Dylan Trussell, David Dinetz and Taryn Cox

You would think that glowsticks, jelly shots and beer pong would be three of the most unlikely things to find at a Fashion Week event unless, of course, your host is Alexander Wang, the young designer known for throwing outrageous after-parties with unusual themes.

This  year Wang channeled the classic collegiate film Animal House and created the ultimate frat party at Pier 40.  The venue was decked out with Playboy centerfold posters, beaten up couches, bathtubs of ice and fridges full of Budweiser.

Among the crowd of beautiful people – at the Kanon Organic Vodka bar (curated by Apotheke), the Playstation consoles or on the dancefloor rocking out to Tyler The Creator and Odd Futures – we spied a few famous faces including Christina Ricci, Penn Badgley (with Zoe Kravitz), Jared Leto, Russell Simmons, models Natasha Poly and Julia Stegner as well as DJ Chelsea Leyland, New York Times editor Cathy Horyn and Milk Studios main man, Mazdack Rassi.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of BFA, PMc and Steve Stone

Guest blogger Karrie Goldberg reminisces on her friendship with supermodel DJ Eve Salvail and reports on their unbelievable weekend trip to Montreal for Pinkarnaval.

I have a very distinct memory of sitting on my friend’s bed in high school watching the Robert Altman movie, Prêt-à-Porter.  It was then that I started my obsession with fashion and became mesmerized by a bald model with a dragon tattoo on her head. If a fashion fairy had appeared and told me that 15 years later I would be on a float with that supermodel and designer Jean Paul Gaultier, I never would have believed it.

Last weekend I traveled to Montreal with Eve Salvail, the infamous muse of Jean Paul Gaultier and French Canadian model turned DJ, who had been invited to spin at Pinkarnaval, a carnival inspired by the upcoming exhibit, “The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier – From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk,” at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA). While I knew she was a superstar in Canada, I had no idea just how beloved she was!

The 48-hour whirlwind weekend (which kicked off the Just for Laughs Festival) started on Saturday, July 16^th, with hair, make-up & costume fittings at MMFA.  Wearing sailor hats in honor of Gaultier, L’Oreal was on board to style the hair. Make up for all of the parade participants was set up in a cafeteria-sized room with artists from Makijaz creating looks ranging from full geisha style white faces to perfectly painted bodies covered in branches or striped shirts.

The Pinkarnaval parade featured eight groups of dancers from different boroughs of Montreal dressed in costumes and headpieces by Daniel Fortin.  Each group was choreographed with a different dance illustrating the diverse eras of Gaultier’s designs such as Les Enfants Terribles, a group of children with striped shirts and teddybear backpacks. All of my favorite Gaultier designs came back to life including bright pink flowing dresses, tight white clinical tops and, of course, stripes everywhere I turned. I spotted packs of women in black dresses outfitted with Gaultier’s iconic cone-bras (made famous by Madonna).

Eve was purposefully positioned on the final tableaux to draw the crowd into the plaza,  It is next to impossible to describe how it felt to be followed by tens of thousands of people screaming “Eve, Eve, Eve” while Jean Paul Gaultier was dancing and pushing our float down the street.

On Sunday night, the festivities continued with a show called “Le Grand Baiser.”  The eight groups of dancers paid homage to the great Jean Paul Gaultier and performed on stage at the outdoor venue, Place des Festivals.  Gaultier himself closed out the performances by thanking Montreal and his longtime friend Eve, for making the weekend so special. After the show was the Striped Ball where Eve aka DJ Evalicious spun tunes in front of thousands of revelers dressed in their best striped outfits!  The crowd went crazy when Eve dropped Dragonette & Martin Solveig’s Hello!

Over the years I have worked on hundreds of events yet I could still not fathom coordinating the many dancers, floats, support staff, artists and producers that participated in Pinkarnaval.  So much thought went into every outfit, dance and even the make up that it was a truly unforgettable experience. I think Montreal loves Jean Paul Gaultier almost as much as I do!

Karrie Goldberg is the founder of Kage Konsulting and The Kagency a full service agency that provides unique access to events, brand building, and marketing innovations via 50 one-of-a-kind venues in New York, Chicago & Los Angeles and 6 celebrity DJ’s including Eve Salvail – DJ Evalicious.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Pinkarnaval, Brynna Bradley (The Gazette) and Pierre Ethier

It was a step back in time to the Roaring 20s last Saturday night on the swanky rooftop of the Gramercy Park Hotel. The festive occasion was the joint birthday party for Vogue Special Events Director, Sylvana Ward-Durrett, and her sister, Daniela Taplin Lundberg.

The Gatsby-inspired gathering brought out New York’s finest party people including fashion designer Alexander Wang, event designer Raul Avila and a smattering of Vogue editors and social girls – all of them well clad in designer threads from Marchesa, Alberta Ferretti and even Kate Moss for Top Shop.

Amidst the scene filled with tassels and top hats, there was a big brass band, cigarette girls serving saltwater taffy and chocolate cigars and a custom-made Art Deco cake by Alice’s Tea Cup.

For more party scoop, see the original post on Vogue.com.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Mimi Ritzen Crawford for Vogue.com

Meryl Streep, Dorothy Parker and Sandra Dee….why might they all have in common?  All of the notable ladies  hail from the fine state of New Jersey and have been profiled in the newly released cawfee table book by Barri Leiner Grant and Marie Moss entitled, Jersey Girls: The Fierce and the Fabulous (Running Press 2011).

Fêted by two beloved Jersey boys – the designer and potter, Jonathan Adler and, stylist turned television star, Robert Verdi, the authors celebrated their book launch at Adler’s Madison Avenue boutique with an offering of Jersey Shore, “boardwalk-inspired,” treats including cotton candy, saltwater taffy, Rita’s Lemonade Ice and Tweet Me Tinis made with Svedka Cherry Vodka and pineapple juice.

Guests, including designer and television host, Nate Berkus, and the cast of the Bravo series, The Real Housewives of New Jersey, were offered kitschy cute “I Heart New Jersey” pins and Eleni’s Edible Image cookies, which featured the cover of the book, as parting gifts.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Mike Caffrey

Foodies will most definitely delight at Gilt Groupe’s latest offering, Gilt Taste, a dedicated website for all things culinary and artisanal curated by former Gourmet Editor-in-Chief Ruth Reichl.  At their lavish launch party last Wednesday night at Cedar Lake, notable chefs including Eric Ripert, restaurateurs Drew Nieporent and Ken Friedman, author Jay McInerney, and model turned television host Tyra Banks mingled with guests that came out to celebrate the new culinary site.

Gilt Taste, which promises to feature “highly coveted products and experiences at insider prices,” brought their site to life by setting up market tables (Cheese, Meat, Charcuterie, Oysters, Pantry and Desserts) around the room in order to showcase a wide variety of food by artisans and local purveyors.  The Cheese table included a selection of cave-aged cheeses from Murray’s while the Meat table offered exclusive-to-Gilt-Taste Mosefund Bacon and Bratwurst tasting trios.  Desserts featured pop pies (read: gourmet pop tarts) from Cake Monkey and elegant cakes from Lady M.

One of the most innovative displays was a Lollipop Installation by Gastronomista, which included lollipops in artisanal flavors such as Noble Maple Tonic No. 2 with Bourbon and Chamomile; Blood Orange Campari; Margarita with Pink Pangasinan Salt; and, Peach Bellini with Long Pepper.  The lollipops, wall mounted on plexiglass, spelled out the Twitter hashtag for the event – #gilttaste.

For those looking to post in a more old school way, a chalk board invited them to share what they were hungry for….which, by the looks of the crowd, was for just about everything Gilt Taste was offering!

PHOTO CREDIT: Copyright ©JIMI CELESTE/PatrickMcMullan.com.

Last Wednesday night, Colin Cowie, one of the most famous party planners in the world, showed his guests just how connected he really is.  The charming host with his signature sense of humor joked with party-goers, that he had used his special “red phone to the sky” to make sure the torrential showers passed just in time for The Society’s third annual Urban Rooftop Txikiteo, a pre-dinner bar crawl inspired by the time honored tradition in Northern Spain.

Along with his co-hosts Founders Ashleigh Dempster and Amanda Blakley of The Society (who consider themselves a virtual culture club for the creative class), Cowie welcomed members as well as a few of his celebrity friends, DJ Donna D’Cruz and actor Josh Lucas, to his private rooftop to kick off the night’s festivities.

Guests enjoyed two Zacapa Rum cocktails – the Mango 23 and Rhubarb Spritz created by mixologist Yusef Austin of Elite Elixirs before being whisked off by black chauffeured SUVs to two of the city’s most exclusive rooftop terraces, Le Bain at The Standard Hotel and the Roofdeck of the Gramercy Park Hotel.

For those that missed out on, “The Society and Zacapa Rum’s Rooftop Txikiteo hosted by Colin Cowie,” we didn’t conclude our rooftop escapades without convincing chef Kevin Denton of the Gramercy Park Hotel to reveal his original recipe for the Plantation Daiquiri – perfect for all of the sultry summer nights that lay ahead.

PLANTATION DAIQUIRI

INGREDIENTS
2 oz Ron Zacapa
0.75 oz Lime Juice
Barspoon agave
Greenmarket peach puree
Sprig of Mint

MIXING NOTES
Puree 2 or 3 ripe peaches.
Add 2 ounces of the puree to one and a half ounce of Ron Zacapa and the  squeezed lime juice.
Shake and strain over crushed ice.
Garnish with a mint sprig to accent the great aromas of the peach and rum.

The Society is a virtual culture club for the creative class that creates a calendar of cultural activities and events that educate, entertain and enlighten.  Past events have included photography lessons in the park, private supper salons in undiscovered lofts with leading artists, underground boxing matches, DJ Spin lessons and architecture tours of the city by bicycle.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of The Society

It was a battle of the biceps and a challenge in cocktail mixing all at the same time.  Hosted by Stirrings, the line of all natural mixers and bar ingredients, the Naked Bartender Event at the Time Warner Center was the finale to a search for the perfect bar guy that embodied lifestyle of the brand – healthy, happy and, did we mention handsome?

Six shirtless and aproned contestants competed to win the title of Naked Bartender and participated in several rounds of Q&A’s as well as cocktail challenges including the creation of a New York inspired libation and a non-alcoholic mocktail.  Serving as the event’s emcee was Blake Morris from Staffing911 who kept the crowd excited and announced the contestants’ scores.  The bartenders presented to three judges including Joachin Simo, a mixologist from Death & Company, Jody Samuels Ike, Senior Brand Manager Diageo Cocktails and yours truly representing Notes on a Party.  Let’s just say it was a hard day’s work!

Carlo Romero, a former JP Morgan trader turned model, prevailed and will continue to represent Stirrings as the Naked Bartender at industry events and promotions across the country.

Carlo’s winning cocktail recipe below:

Big Apple Fizz
1.5 oz Ketel One
3 oz Stirrings Apple Martini Mix
3.5 oz Stirrings Ginger Ale Soda

Combine all ingredients in a tall glass filled with ice.
Garnish with an apple slice.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Stirrings

Adam Lippes & Natalie Joos | Christina Ricci & Lubov Azria

It may be a socialite’s worst nightmare to have a glass of red wine spilled on her dress at a benefit but for Arden Wohl, it was all in the name of performance art and philanthropy.

At The Whitney Art Party on June 9th, hosted by the Whitney Contemporaries, Wohl was one of the willing participants in the live art installation where four former ISP (Independent Study Program) visionaries – Ellen Harvey, Jason Middlebrook, Liz Magic Laser and Ryan Humphrey - were invited to turn BCBG white dresses into original pieces of art.

There to witness the show, sponsored by BCBG Max Azria, were a bevy of downtown socials, fashion darlings and Hollywood it girls including Christina Ricci, Emilie de Ravin, Lubov Azria, Rachel Zoe, Charlotte Ronson, Ivanka Trump, Carly Cushnie and Michelle Ochs.  As for the boys, who were decidedly more dressed down this year, the list included co-chair Adam Lippes, Michael Carl, Prabal Gurung and Chris Benz, who perused the extensive art auction and sipped signature cocktails by Belvedere and Grand Marnier.

Playing event maestro for another year was designer Bronson Van Wyck who transformed a fresh new venue – 82 Mercer Street – into a tranquil garden paradise. The private rooms were defined by whimsical hedgerows with “windows” cut out of them and spotted with brightly hued peonies for color. Van Wyck’s design was meant to “metaphorically transport guests out of New York City and into a garden maze,” which, with the torrential rains outside, was a welcomed and stylish escape.

Monica Pean & Alek Wek | Bonnie Morrison, Dani Stahl, Michael Carl & Eleanor Yvisaker

Eva Amurri Arriving at the Whitney Art Party

The Enchanted Garden - design by Van Wyck & Van Wyck

Event Designer Bronson Van Wyck | Floating Floral Display

PHOTO CREDIT:  Billy Farrell for Patrick McMullan

A limited-edition kaftan inspired by Pink Grapefruit was designed by Williamson and modeled by Leigh Lezark of The MisShapes who served as muse of the evening as well as DJ spinning upbeat 80′s tunes and indie tracks for a crowd of almost 1000 revelers who spilled out onto the private terrace.

Notable attendees at Belvedere’s luxe pop-up lounge in the Meatpacking District included Kelly Osbourne, Chelsea Handler, Bar Rafaeli, Estelle, Ashley Olsen and Top Chef’s Kelly Choi who sampled signature cocktails such as the Belve Pink Grapefruit Cerveza (with Blue Moon Beer and Campari) and the Belve Mini Pink Grapefruit Snow Cones (with ginger sugar, grapefruit wedge and zest oil over crushed ice) at the VIP bar, which was lacquered in shiny white with a pink grapefruit water wall mounted with real sliced pink grapefruit halves.

As with all of Belvedere’s macerations including, Black Raspberry, Citrus and Orange, the brand uses an artisanal and time-intensive process to draw out the real fruit flavor with no artificial additives.  The result is a flavored vodka with a luscious mouth-feel, authentic taste and aroma.

The Belvedere Collaboration by Matthew Williamson includes a kaftan ($1195) and a jumpsuit ($1695) which are available online.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Marion Curtis for Starpix

Created by former Astor Center director Lesley Townsend and an advisory board that reads as the who’s-who of the cocktail industry including Sasha Petraske, Dale DeGroff, Allen Katz, Julie Reiner, Charlotte Voisey among others, the Manhattan Cocktail Classic is best described as, “part festival, part fete, part conference, part cocktail party.”

“It all started with a naive question,” recalled Townsend with a laugh. “If New Orleans and San Francisco have cocktail events, how come New York doesn’t have one?”  Little did she know that the accidental idea posed to a few of her industry contacts (who later became the Advisory Board), would initiate so much interest so quickly that Townsend was (enthusiastically) pressured to leave her job and spearhead the event.

Highlights of the Fall Preview gala included a feast of classic food, loosely inspired by pre-Prohibition time, such as Cheeses from Stinky Bklyn; Smoked Salmon from Russ & Daughters; Roasted Game Birds from Allen & Delancey; Cheese Fondue from The Jake Walk; and even a few whole suckling pigs.

Top cocktails of the night were the Delmonico (Hendrick’s Gin, Solerno Liqueur, Lillet Blanc and Lillet Rouge) and, of course, the Manhattan, (Michter’s Rye, Martini & Rossi Sweet Vermouth and Angostura Bitters).

The guests, many of whom arrived in full 1920′s costume, danced to the iconic New York jazz band, Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks.

According to Townsend, there will be a lot more drinking to come with the upcoming multi-day Manhattan Cocktail Classic which is scheduled for May 14 to 18, 2010.

For more information on the event, visit their web site or follow them on Twitter for news and updates.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Trina Albus and Live the Lush Life 

It’s one thing to plan a party. It’s quite another to plan an event. A party is all about the guests—making sure the food, drinks and atmosphere complement the theme so that each person who walks into the room is immediately immersed in the atmosphere you’ve created.

But an event is something entirely different. Although event planners keep the guests in mind, of course, an event is all about the brands involved. For our “EcoStiletto One-Year Anniversary,” in July, my goal was to create an eco-friendly cocktail party that reflected all of the categories covered by the site – eco-focused beauty, fashion, lifestyle, design and celebrity. The idea was to provide interactive experiences that proved to party-goers that you can be sexy and sustainable.

Here’s the scoop on the cool eco-brands that helped me bring the experience of my website to life.

In the lifestyle department, presenting sponsor Green Works Natural Cleaners  showcased their brand-new laundry detergent on beds created from salvaged materials and dressed with organic cotton linens by Environment Furniture, whose spacious Los Angeles showroom hosted the event.

For beauty, guests were treated to mini makeovers from Josie Maran Cosmetics, eyebrow threading from Marco at Vert Los Angeles, and synthetic-free scents from Strange Invisible Perfumes, then slicked up with lead-free red lipstick to kiss the Lips Against Lead petition presented by Teens Turning Green.

In the fashion section, readers who had read online about our EcoCelebrities’ favorite designer got to see supermodel Josie Maran, KaDee Strickland (“Private Practice”), Sarah Jane Morris (“Brothers and Sisters”) and Rachelle Carson-Begley (“Living with Ed”) working the green carpet in sustainable silk gowns by Leila Hafzi, who also showcased a rack of fall previews on display.

Glass blower Jenny Gaynor turned recycled glass sticks into stackable rings. Green Bees previewed their chrome-free leather boots with recycled-tire soles that we will be giving away in August as part of our monthly $500 eco-friendly shoe giveaway.

Guests were invited to donate a scarf to Dress for Success and then pick up a Get Hip, Get Green reusable shopping bag from a Green Youth Movement volunteer.

Luscious Organic Desserts cupcakes were served from “cigarette girl” trays carried by models wearing Urban Fox eco-lingerie. Organic cocktails were made from O.N.E. Natural Experience juices mixed with 360 Vodka, and biodynamic wine was served by Frey Wine in biodegradable veggie-plastic cups. BOKU Superfood provided tastings, while Vidazorb gave away probiotic vitamin samples.  Outside the event, the Border Grill Taco Truck served tasty tacos and quesadillas to hungry party-goers.

Even the event production had sustainability in mind. Rather than cut flowers, each table featured a planted succulent arrangement from Juicy Leaf  in Venice, CA. Instead of the prerequisite Hollywood party psychic, guests visited with Los Angeles based Katie Rogers for a Feng Shui while they listened to DJ Ref’s solar powered tunes. And, for the dirty part of the party – clean-up was 100% chemical-free courtesy of Greener Cleaner LA .

Founder of online magazine EcoStiletto.com, Rachel Lincoln Sarnoff is a writer, producer and marketing consultant who focuses on sustainable fashion, beauty, lifestyle and parenting.

Along with co-hosts MINI, Marc Alt, Notes on a Party, Neighbor, Environment and Ecofabulous, LA based conference Opportunity Green co-hosted, “An Evening Celebrating Style with a Conscience,” and made their East Coast debut to an audience of the leading thinkers in the green community.

In town to promote their upcoming annual business conference for ecopreneurs on November 7th and 8th, 2009, Opportunity Green co-founders Karen Solomon and Mike Flynn were greeted by over 300 guests who gathered at the Environment showroom (876 Broadway) for organic cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and lively conversation about how to be green and profitable at the same time.

“In our role as connectors, it’s important for us to bridge the gap and create dialogue between innovators and leaders in LA and NYC,” explains Flynn. “Both cities have excellent green leadership on many levels including their mayors (Villaraigosa and Bloomberg, respectively) and now is the time to work together to create a bright [green] future.”

Notable guests from a variety of industries attended including Graham Hill and Ken Rother (Treehugger/Discovery), Julie Gilhart (Barney’s), Michael Dwork (Verterra), William Allen (TED), Rohit Aggarwala (Mayor Bloomberg’s Office), Helen Walters (BusinessWeek), Toby Daniels (Social Media Week), sustainable fashion designer Bahar Shahpar as well as long time sustainable activist and founder of Green Drinks, Margaret Lydecker.

The three level Environment showroom was dressed with organic floral arrangements by Celadon & Celery and filled with tables of organic catering by Sage Events including a lavish spread of whole poached salmon with cucumber slices and grilled shrimp siracha skewers with jalapeno corn bread.  Fruit cocktails were provided by all natural Stirrings mixers and Square One Organic Vodka.  Guests sampled delicious green goodies such as Peak Organic Pomegranate Wheat Ale with Acai, Honest Tea Mango Green Tea and organic Whole Berry Blast ProBars.  In the corner of the store, a NYC Photobooth was set up to let guests strike their best poses for a vintage 6 photo strip.

But, the scene stealer of the night may have been the row of MINI electric cars tightly packed together and filling the entire curb lane from 18th to 19th Streets.  Called the MINI E, the still-in-test-mode, 100% electric car boasts zero emissions and cutting edge technology.

Proof that good (green) things really do come in small packages.

For more information about Opportunity Green and to buy tickets to the upcoming conference, click here.

For a complete gallery of event photos, visit Manhattan Society or the event page at Opportunity Green.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Christopher London of Manhattan Society 

Relevant Posts about Green Entertaining.

And, “a few,” by their standards, meant an eye-popping 1,300 urbanites who came out to celebrate Gen Art’s 15th Anniversary at the, “I Heart Gen Art,” benefit held at 7W last Wednesday night which was sponsored by New York Observer, Rolling Pin Productions and Vitella Cucina. While the guest list ranged from reality stars to fashion designers to exhibiting artists, they were all there in support of the organization that worked in support of the arts.

A slew of Gen Art alums attended, including designers and Honorary Chairs Rebecca Taylor and Zac Posen—who bought a piece by graffiti artist Claw Money and asked permission to take it home with him upon his exit. With Zac’s help over 30 pieces of art sold, including works by Louise Bourgeois, Timothy Greenfield-Sanders, and Ju$t Another Rich Kid making the event a solid success.  The remaining art from the benefit, in particular, a work by Christo, will be available on Ebay from July 1 – 30.

Among other notable guests were Olivia Palermo and Whitney Port, in a psychedelic Pamella Roland mini dress, with their cast and crew filming for, “The City,” ” Christian Siriano  from Project Runway and, “Real Housewives of New York City,” power couple Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen.

With the drinks flowing (courtesy of Campari Aperitif Liqueur, SKYY Vodka, Cabo Wabo Tequila, Flor de Cana Rum, Cutty Sark Scotch Whisky, Magic Hat and AriZona Beverages), music pumping and artists on hand to talk about their work and mingle with admirers, this was not your average benefit. It was a quintessential Gen Art event, and we hope it’s not the last.

All proceeds from the evening will benefit the Gen Art Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charity.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Rob Loud

The popular annual benefit and art auction, hosted by the Whitney Contemporaries in partnership with fashion house BCBGMAXAZRIA to support the museum’s Independent Study Program, drew in a sea of well-dressed art connoisseurs, fashion elite, young Hollywood stars, and models, donning everything from long and flowing summer gowns to short and sexy bandage dresses. Notable attendees included host Camilla Belle, actors Ali Larter, Lindsay Price, Lake Bell, Amber Tamblyn, Alexis Bledel, Bradley Cooper, Gerard Butler, models Lisa Cant, Sessilee Lopez, Hana Soukupova, Lydia Hearst, Hilary Rhoda, and fashion designers Max Azria, Gilles Mendel, and event co-chair Adam Lippes.

Unfazed by the impending weather, patrons packed into the spacious yet intimately-decorated atmosphere– which included floor-to-ceiling white curtains, a center “glow bar” faintly illuminating the room, plush white couches, clear acrylic table stands filled with votives, and orchids and royal palm trees scattered throughout– evoking the summery tone of a tropical cabana, courtesy of event designer Bronson van Wyck. “It was a lighter touch, more optimistic, and a real mix of the serene and the whimsical, he says, “We wanted it to be a breath of fresh air, an escape– a moment to focus on fun, friendship, and great art.” Further extending the escapist tone with refreshments, the event offered a selection of fresh and fruity Belvedere cocktails and hors d’oeuvres catered by Taste from miniature Cuban sandwiches to bite-sized coconut dulce de leche chocolates.

Included in this year’s auction were the works of Terence Koh, Marilyn Minter, Corin Hewitt, Andrew Kuo, and more than 70 other contemporary artists– an attribute to the museum’s reputation and the event’s continued success. Adam Lippes, who acquired one of the auction’s pieces for his own personal collection, explains, “People really care about the Whitney and know it is focused on supporting artists while they’re alive, especially in the most crucial time of their careers.” And highlighting what sets this event apart from others of its kind, says, “There are so many charity events, but this is not ‘charity.’ A party should be a party, so we make it fun and easy. Many people run out of benefits after desert, but for this, people stick around.”

And true enough, attendees danced to the DJ stylings of Kid America and enjoyed the art up for auction long into the night and left appropriately armed for rain drizzles with the event’s commemorative gift– a Mark Fox-Lubov Azria collaboration umbrella with Fox’s signature ink-drop pattern and Whitney quote inscription on the interior– bidding a final adieu with the benefit’s inspirational message. Although if you’re handbag designer Rafe Totengco, who particularly enjoys the event’s healthy mix of,  “uptown PYT’s and downtown denizens,” you may have left the scene with more than an umbrella: “It’s one of the best parties of the season, and if you’re lucky, you might just go home with a new person or a new art piece– or both!”

~Leann Peterson

PHOTO CREDIT: Patrick McMullan

Read our story in the Huffington Post:  Fashion’s Darling Benefit:  Whitney Art Party

When asked about what it was like to incorporate Le Tourment Vert into his menu, Chef Richter said, “I loved it.  It’s the best absinthe to pair with food. It’s light, sexy and very drinkable.”

With its delicate blend of fourteen herbs, including ingredients such as grand wormwood, star anise, fennel and eucalyptus, Le Tourment Vert is known for its palatable flavor, which makes it a favorite of cocktail connoisseurs and foodies alike.  Notable mixologist Steve Livigni from the private club The Doheny in Los Angeles created original concoctions for the event that were sophisticated yet restrained to compliment Chef Richter’s flavorful menu.

Food and drink combinations included: Lobster Le Tourment Vert Bisque paired with The Last Straw (a frozen popsicle cocktail of Le Tourment Vert, strawberry and Lillet Blanc); Cured Alaskan Salmon paired with The Up & Up (Le Tourment Vert, Reposado Tequila, orange and lime juices, simple syrup and rose water); and Fried Arangini with Le Tourment Vert Lemon Aioli paired with The Hummingbird (Watermelon Infused Le Tourment Vert, Lemon, St. Vincent’s Tamarind Syrup and Prosecco).

For more information on where to find Le Tourment Vert and original cocktail recipes, visit their web site.

To hire chef Stefan Richter, contact his LA based catering company, Stefan’s European Catering.

To book an event in this private West Village townhouse, visit The Venue Pages.

- Event reporting by Bailly Roesch

PHOTO CREDIT:  Kevin Tachman

Co-chaired by Trusted Translations CEO, Richard Estevez, Molly Birkenes and Mazdack Rassi of Milk Studios with honorary chair actress Kristin Davis, the event raised awareness and funds for the hospital which specializes in treating child patients with cancer and other catastrophic diseases.  Former St. Jude patients and living testimonials of the incredible work of the hospital, Michael Swart and Jake  Marshall told their inspirational tales of survival.

Notable guests including Michael Imperioli, model Audrey Quock, Cuba Gooding Sr., and E! Entertainment Founder Alan Mruvka enjoyed savory hors d’oeuvres by Daniel Boulud, cheeses from Artisanal, wines from the leading vineyards in the world and incredible gourmet chocolates from Godiva from their custom made bar made out of gold Godiva boxes created by Larry Abel Designs.  The innovative format of the event was developed by Estevez and Birkenes (who both wanted to move away from a formal seated dinner) as a fresh way for their guests to mingle, socialize and tap into the energy of the event while sampling an array of delicacies.

The highlight of the night was a performance by the legendary Tony Bennett who sang some of his most beloved songs.  He ended his performance by turning off the microphones and asking the room to hush, as he sang, Fly Me to the Moon, with only a guitar accompanying him.

To learn more about St. Jude Children’s Hospital and to make a donation, visit their web site.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Guest of a Guest and St. Jude Children’s Hospital

Those were the (well received) instructions on our invitation to, “An Evening of Eco-Friendly Cocktails with VeeV Acai Spirit,” an exclusive cocktail tasting we co-hosted with Delicatessen restaurant last week.

To kick off the summer season in style, readers of Notes on a Party and VIP customers of Delicatessen were invited to participate in a fun, interactive event by sampling four original cocktail recipes by VeeV and selecting their favorite drink of the night.

Notable guests, including reality TV personality and style author, Kelly Bensimon and VeeV co-founder Courtney Reum, enjoyed cocktails such as the Brazilian Elixir and Toast of the Antioxidants as well as savory items from Deli’s new seasonal menu.

The winning cocktail, Joie de VeeV, a ginger-infused concoction made with a dash of orange liqueur, lemon juice and crystallized ginger garnish, will be featured as the signature drink on Deli’s menu for the month of June.

To thank guests for their expert imbibing, their completed ballots were entered into the eco-luxe raffle which included prizes such as a VeeV Summer Gift Basket;  Slate NYC gift card for eco-dry cleaning; a collection of Stirrings Organic mixers; and, a JadeTribe bracelet with silver OM charm.

But, all the guests left as winners with a gift bag, that was fondly dubbed by Deli’s Brandi Anderson as “eco-party in a bag,” filled with a mini of VeeV, a bag of PopChips, compostable plates by VerTerra and a copy of “Deli’s Hot Summer Hits,” a compiliation mix by DJ Mode who spun lively tracks at the event all night long.

Delicatessen, 54 Prince Street, New York 212-226-0211.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Aaron Zebrook

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At their New York launch party, VERT featured a product showcase of Yoko Chapman carbon neutral stationery (with complimentary Sweet Impression vegan cookies), Gardenia Organic fair trade floral bouquets and Fernando Jewelry recycled gold, conflict free rings.  The fashion show, emceed by Starre Vartan, author of “The Eco Chick Guide to Life: How to Be Fabulously Green,” featured designers such as Jessica Iverson and her collection of eco-couture wedding dresses.

Preston Bailey, beloved event designer to the stars (think opulent affairs for Oprah, Joan Rivers, and Donald Trump), was the unlikely guest speaker at this green gathering. But, his honest, from-the-heart detailing of his baby steps toward green which started with a project that required him to consider sustainability, was inspiration for brides and planners alike.

The venue host for the night was The New York Academy of Sciences, a LEED-certified building and, in my opinion, an often overlooked location for chic, eco-weddings,

For the final kicker, VERT’s, “Go Green, Save Green,” promise means you can introduce sustainability into your events without going broke.  Their site is full of easy planning tips for saving money for the budget bride.  So, sorry kids, but no more excuses – time to introduce some green into that white wedding.

Contributing green writer Danielle Venokur is the founder of dvGreen, a sustainable event design  and production firm.  She hosts The Green Party on MNN.com, and has  been featured in GOTHAM, The Knot, Treehugger, Vogue, and Modern Bride as one of their 25 Trendsetters of 2008.

PHOTO CREDIT:  David Lindner

The cocktail party and awards show, which was supported by eBay and Hearst Digital Media, was a star-studded event emcee’d by actress Connie Britton of the NBC show, Friday Night Lights, who presented awards to honorees including Access Hollywood correspondent Maria Menounos for hosting Planet Green’s Hollywood Green; actress Alicia Silverstone for her advocacy of veganism; and actress Gloria Reuben for her work as a board member of the Waterkeeper Alliance.

As with most award shows, the most memorable moments came from the acceptance speeches and this year’s honorees did not disappoint.  Highlights included humorous moments by Roger Doiron, founder of Kitchen Gardeners International, who calmed his nerves by telling the audience that he was picturing them in their organic cotton underwear, to heartfelt moments by teacher Greg Perry who spoke about his plans to continue to build the Ultimate Green Classroom with his students while he personally battles cancer.

Of course, all of the elements of the event production were sustainable courtesy of Matthew David Hopkins and Laurie Stolowitz of 360 Design Events who created a product gallery showcasing items from eBay.  To minimize waste, all of the materials used for the event were recycled via donations to various organizations.

The hollow doors used for the product display were donated to Rebuilding Together New York City, a national volunteer organization that rehabilitates low income housing.  The printed fabric wrap was donated to Material for the Arts which collects gently used materials to re-purpose them into public schools and theater workshops.  And, the flowers went to hospice care centers and hospitals via The Flower Power Foundation.

For more information on each honoree, visit The Daily Green.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Hearst

Lakshmi (who was treated for the health condition) and her physician Dr. Seckin co-founded the EFA in the hopes of raising awareness and increasing education to encourage early detection and treatment of this disease that affects approximately 10% of women in the United States.

VIP guests including Whoopi Goldberg, Daniel Benedict and Andrew Saffir enjoyed an evening at The Prince George Ballroom (15 East 27th Street) which was beautifully decorated with large arrangements of cherry blossoms and hanging votives by Jen Stone of Stone Kelly.  Music was provided by JT Donaldson with a surprise performance by Sister Sledge.

Executive chef Thomas Besnard of Convivium Catering worked with Lakshmi to design an elegant spring dinner menu of Baby Spinach with Carrots, Beets, Parmesan and Truffle Oil Vinaigrette and Striped Bass with Thyme and Olives followed by Vanilla & Poire Williams Ice Cream.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Kevin Tachman

Co-chaired by Cheryl Katz, Paula Mahoney, Ruthe Ponturo, Jerry Ruotol and Melissa Smith with special guest hosts ABT dancers Marcelo Gomes and Craig Salstein, the evening celebrated New York’s culinary world with a selection of the city’s top chefs from restaurants including Gramercy Tavern, Aureole, Nobu Fifty Seven, Cafe des Artistes and Toqueville.

“It’s a great way to get people mingling and visiting all of the food and cocktail stations, instead of staying seated all night,” explained Melissa Smith, a co-chair for the benefit (and recent board member), who grew up attending the ABT as a young girl.  Between tasting the savory appetizers and delicious cocktails from mixologists such as Albert Trummer of Apotheke and Jeff Mancini of Elizabeth, guests enjoyed short “Dancing with the Stars,” inspired numbers with leading ABT dancers including a lively salsa and hip hop number.

For those in the shopping mood, an impressive silent auction featured luxuries for all tastes and interests including an extraordinary safari to Kenya and a custom designed cocktail dress by Project Runway Winner, Christian Siriano.

To buy tickets to the Spring Season of American Ballet Theater at the Metropolitan Opera House, click here.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Andrew Walker / Getty Image

One Texas teen, winner of the PGP online video contest, was flown in for the event.  Notable players in the green scene, hair stylist John Masters and model/author Summer Rayne Oakes were both contest judges along with Zem Joaquin of EcoFabulous and Eva Chen of Teen Vogue.

The simple, prom-achievable decor (of hanging local greens and adorable cardboard ReplayGround butterflies) was done by my very own sustainable design firm, dvGreen.  OlsenHaus vegan shoes, Burt’s Bees care products and Revolution Rickshaw no-impact transportation were among the many vendors showing their wares as tables around the space.  Inspired by the event, here are a few tips for hosting a Green Prom of your own or really any teen-oriented event.

Serve Mock-tails
Get the party started with some wonderfully sweet and festive mocktails.  Mix two parts club soda with one part Stirrings Organic Apricot Bellini in a champagne glass rimmed with Stirrings Bellini Rimmer.

Arrive In Style
Skip the stretch limo and instead make a statement with a fun, fresh and funky alternative… the rickshaw!

Tie One On
Think local and organic when planning your boutonnieres and corsages.  Or, opt for a keepsake that can be put to use for years to come by choosing a funky felt pin instead (search etsy.com for great, homemade options).

Project Green Prom educates teens and teachers on how they can reduce the impact of their proms.  The modus operandi is the fun, fact-filled online toolkit (of which I wrote the “The Prom” section), where you can find interviews, resources and tips on introducing sustainability into Prom. Also, if you’re on the west coast swing by the PGP pop-up shop in The Village at Corte Madera.

For more green entertaining tips for teens, visit the Project Green Prom tool kit here.

Contributing green writer Danielle Venokur is the founder of dvGreen, a sustainable event design  and production firm.  She hosts The Green Party on MNN.com, and has  been featured in GOTHAM, The Knot, Treehugger, Vogue, and Modern Bride as one of their 25 Trendsetters of 2008.