The Elenian Club hosted their annual “Ballo di Natale” welcoming six new Debutante members and one Lady in Waiting on Saturday, December 5, 2020, at the International Ballroom of the downtown Doubletree Hotel.
Each Debutante and Lady in Waiting were escorted by her father and grandfathers. The Master of Ceremony Daniel Villafranco introduced each honoree to the Elenian Club audience of Past Presidents, Elenian members, family and friends. Following the presentations of each, the ladies were promenaded to the dance floor to enjoy the traditional dance to “Thank Heaven for Little Girls” which was provided by Jerry “The Jazzman” Embree and his swing band.
The warmly lit room provided a Christmas-themed setting, as the honored guests stood out in their pure white formal gowns. Several green Christmas trees decorated with red and gold oversized bulb ornaments with lighted angels at the front corners, gold threaded Santa sleigh, with deer and presents to match. Each table was centered with a single warm lit pillar candle raised and nested with garland and red and gold holly berries.
Villafranco, dressed as Santa, pranced into the ballroom to the music of “Here Comes Santa Claus.” As each lady sat on Santa’s lap, he presented them with Elenian ornaments.
Elenians understand the importance of keeping their Italian Heritage alive in the hearts of member families from generation to generation. Eighty-six years of existence is a testament to Italian loving ladies.
Maria Villafranco and Lisa Ingraham served as Co-Chairs, with Judith Miranti and Virginia Eckholdt Co-Chairs of the Debutantes and Faith Peperone as the Ladies in Waiting Chair.
The festivities were limited to 100 guests due to COVID-19 limitations.
➺ Event at a Glance
What: “Ballo di Natale”
When: Saturday, December 5, 2020
Where: Double Tree Hotel
Past President and Ladies in Waiting Chair Faith Peperone, Past President Marian Montalbano and Lady in Waiting Madison Montalbano
Vincent Montalbano, Treasurer Betty Deshotel and Bill Peperone
Debutantes Emily Barraco, Marche Beals and Kaylee Caracci with President Maria Villafranco
Debutantes Megan Deshotel, Grace Greco and Elliena Ingraham with Past President Lisa Ingraham
