Since its inception in 1995, “Sentimental Journeys” has been the benchmark for fund-raisers—the food, the wines, the décor and auction items can be considered the best in the city. This year’s gala was no exception, especially with such talented people both in front of and behind the scenes. The festivities kicked off on Oct. 15 with a patron reception at the home of Mr. and Mrs. David Monteleone. The following night was the extravaganza, which started at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Bright III, where a wine tasting ensued. Soon partygoers were crossing the street to the tent, where the gala and auction were held. The movie “Indochine” provided the décor’s inspiration—and the tent, once partygoers entered it, ceased being just a tent and was suddenly transformed into a chic Vietnamese nightclub from the 1930s or so. Architect Lee Ledbetter was the selective eye behind that. The sit-down dinner was four courses, paired with wines, and was concocted by guest chef Jonathan Eismann of Pacific Time and chef Eric Branger of the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans.
During the evening’s repast, the auction manned by Christie’s New York’s Richard Brierley commenced. Thirty-one luxurious trips around the world tempted partygoers, many of whom got into the bidding spirit and sometimes bid more than the trip’s value! That was just one of the reasons the event was able to raise more than $700,000 for Longue Vue House and Gardens.