The Golden Gala, sponsored by Banner Ford Banner Chevrolet, was a fabulous day in the New Orleans Botanical Garden dedicated to honoring the success and longevity of Boys Hope Girls Hope (BHGH). The 41-year-old local nonprofit helps youth from disadvantaged backgrounds rise up and strive for more within a safe, supportive and academic-focused household.
The Sunday afternoon event began with the Golden Hour Patron Party where Chef Frank Brigtsen captivated the audience with his live demo of shrimp con queso and chipotle grits. BHGH Program Director, Daniella Portillo, followed with a personal testimony. The hour wrapped up with a beautifully intimate performance by special musical headliner and talented singer-songwriter, Kristin Diable. Refried Confuzion then led the way in true New Orleans style with a Second Line into the main gala experience where partygoers were greeted with a beautiful entry step and repeat by Blooming Wall Nola.
Guests roamed amongst shady oaks, blossoming rose beds and lush boxwoods of the Botanical Gardens to find their favorite food, entertainment, raffle items and refreshments.
12 beloved New Orleans restaurants shared a wide array of culinary choices ensuring no one would leave hungry. The lineup included Bonfire Catering, Galatoire’s, Cavan, Caluda’s Cottage Catering and many more. Beverages were provided by Pat O’Briens, Crescent Crown, Sierra Nevada and Southern Glazers.
Partygoers were entertained by the enchanting Linda Bubbles and Stephanie Gaffney of Torregrossa Arts capturing the essence of the event in a live painting. David Doucet serenaded the audience under the oaks while Refried Confuzion kept the energy up as attendees cheered for a Saints win in the viewing area. Mateo & Company brought the magic behind the lens with their stunning photography and unique facial recognition feature that allowed guests to receive their favorite snapped moments in an instant. Kristin Diable closed out the gala with a passionate performance at sunset.
Chaired by Brittany Whitsell, the event raised funds through sponsorship, ticket sales, raffle packages, Saints football squares and a Fund-the-Need providing direct program support.
Follow Boys Hope Girls Hope of Greater New Orleans on Facebook @BoysHopeGirlsHopeofGreaterNewOrleans, on Instagram @bhghnola and Twitter @BHGH_NOLA
Event At A Glance
What: Boys Hope Girls Hope Gala benefiting Boys Hope Girls Hope of Greater New Orleans
When: Sunday, November 14, 2021
Where: New Orleans Botanical Garden
Ashley Solomon, Anne Raymond
Usha and Dr. Warren Borgeois
Kellie and Jason Maurin, Adeleigh Smith
Janis van Meerveld, Charlie Cerise
Chris Kenny, Frank Brigtsen, Lynne Burkart, Chuck Roth
Brittany Whitsell, Sally Duplantier, Kelley Flick Moreau, Cydne Shipley
