The “Essence of Style Design Symposium” kicked of with a reception featuring stunning home décor and exquisite tropical poolside landscaping. Designer Reception hosts Jennifer and Kenny Rabalais of Jade and The Plant Gallery provided floral arrangements to decorate the reception. Event partners Commander’s Palace and Barcadia provided the food such as turtle soup, shrimp and mushroom risotto with libations, complimented by sweets prepared by the Symposium Committee. Approximately 100 guests enjoyed the ambient sounds of Harry Hardin as they dined.
The following day the symposium commenced with a lecture and luncheon at the Audubon Tea Room. Table centerpieces were created by the Symposium Decorations Committee and featured blue and white ceramics accented by river rocks and Japanese lanterns. Guests browsed over 50 auction items including a Drew Brees autographed football, home décor from The Shop and Longue Vue, design consultation certificates and jewelry.
Featured speakers, designers and authors Julia Reed and Bunny Williams were joined by special guest John Rosselli, Williams’ husband and an antiques dealer. Their slide presentation was titled after the new book, One Man’s Folly: The Exceptional Houses of Furlow Gatewood; Williams wrote the foreward and afterword to the book that Reed edited. More than 275 were in attendance for the lecture and book-signing.
Symposium Co-Chairs included Louis J. Aubert and Elesha Kelleher. Carol Hall served as Auction Co-Chair, and Reception Co-Chairs were Marian Gibbs and JoAnn Christopher. The symposium serves the inspire and educate New Orleanians interested in interior and exterior design issues by featuring top speakers in the fields of design, horticulture and art.
The event raised significant funds in support of educational programming.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “Essence of Style Design Symposium and Reception,” benefiting Longue Vue House & Gardens
When: November 5-6
Where: Audubon Tea Room
