With more than six decades of providing critical resources for substance abuse recovery for the New Orleans community, Bridge House / Grace House served up a festive Carnival-themed “Cochon Cotillion” in the event’s 23rd year.
The Court and Patron Party took place in the Bienville Room at Mardi Gras World. Court members attired in their favorite French-themed costumes to coincide with the King and Queen’s costume decree. The Double-Step Cloggers performed and the Merry Antoinettes took photos with guests.
A spoof on the traditional Mardi Gras ball, Cochon Cotillion set the scene with a bright display of Mardi Gras linens, florals and topiary balloon arrangements. Dancers from Muggivan School of Irish Dance performed as the doors opened and guests began arriving.
The Double-Step Cloggers led a second line entrance into the Ballroom with King Iggie Perrin, Queen Angelle Verges and their Court, followed by Patron Party guests, the Merry Antoinettes and Muggivan Irish Dancers.
ELS Show Band performed in the Main Ballroom and Mike Morris continued to perform in the Bienville Room. In addition to participating in the parade, The Pussyfooters and the Double-Step Cloggers performed during the band’s set break.
A step and repeat with the Bridge House / Grace House logo provided a backdrop for guest photos, as well as a photo booth by CS Events of New Orleans. Caricatures from “Uncle” Wayne Daigrepoint were offered in the Bienville Room.
Food from more than 30 local restaurants included dishes like Seafood Gumbo from Casamento’s Restaurant, Shrimp and Tomato Bruschetta from Bravo! Cucina Italiana and Bread Pudding from Café Reconcile.
A raffle offered two roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines. Additionally, 75 silent auction packages featured prizes including original artwork by M. Rinad, Robert Guthrie and Alex Beard, as well as an autographed New Orleans Saints football signed by Cam Jordan, Mark Ingram, Mike McKenzie and Curtis Baham.
Event Chairs were Arlene Rome, Tiffany Truxillo and Rosemary Tunstall. Liz Reyes served as Emcee.
Event at a Glance
What: “Cochon Cotillion XXIII,” benefiting Bridge House / Grace House
When: Saturday, April 6
Where: Bienville Room at Mardi Gras World.
Event Chairs Rosemary Tunstall, Tiffany Truxillo and Arlene Rome
Sarah Sammarco, Chip Verges, Megan Ripoll and Clare Ripoll
