What: KidneyTexas, Inc.’s "The Runway Report: Transforming Lives" Luncheon and Fashion Show
Where: Brook Hollow Golf Club
The 411: Marking its 20th anniversary, the beloved Dallas luncheon brought together patrons, community leaders, and fall fashion-watchers in support of KidneyTexas' fight against kidney disease.
After a mimosa reception, emcee Scott Murray and KidneyTexas president Sandy Secor welcomed guests and acknowledged those who have worked to help raise over $3.54 million for the organization.
Luncheon chair Mari Epperson and honorary chairs Suzette Derrick and Renée Winter then had a few surprises up their sleeves.
The inaugural Everson Walls Legacy Award was presented to former Cowboys great Everson Walls, who donated one of his kidneys to his former teammate, Ron Springs, who lived for several years after the surgery. As a grand surprise for Walls, his friends and former Dallas Cowboy players appeared on the stage show their support: Doug Donley, Michael Downs, Ed “Too Tall” Jones, Timmy Newsome, and Drew Pearson.
Guests dined on a delectable lunch that was crowned with a mascarpone cheesecake with a carmelized brulée topping and butterfly tuile. They also got to bid in a spirited live auction, which featured items such a TOOTSIES Shopping Spree, Bachendorf's gift certificate, and Biltmore Estate getaway. Additionally, a call for contributions brought in over $17,000.
For many, the highlight of the luncheon is always the fashion show, and this one did not disappoint. Jan Strimple, renowned Dallas fashion event producer, helmed the show, sponsored by TOOTSIES and KidBiz.
As the lights dimmed and music filled the room, models showed off top fashion trends for fall and winter: plaids, bold floral prints, red lips, patterned hose and leggings, ankle-high shoes and boots in reptile patterns, hair accessories, lace leggings, wonderful cocktail dresses, patterned blouses, and work wardrobes with belted waists. The children smiled as they strutted the runway in fashions by KidBiz and The Wild Brand.
The evening gown finale drew much applause, featuring a model dressed in a beautiful flowing gown with a long tulle cape and a headpiece full of colorful butterflies.
As a special treat, the party continued as TOOTSIES hosted a post-luncheon champagne reception at their Preston Center boutique, featuring a glass treasure chest filled with jewelry, an evening clutch, scarf, and earrings, all locked up, only to be opened with a key, which was given out in the program. KidBiz donated a post luncheon giveback shopping spree at their Lovers Lane location, as well.
Proceeds from KidneyTexas' 20th annual luncheon benefit Baylor Health Care System Foundation, Camp Reynal, Children’s Medical Center Foundation, Methodist Health System Foundation, and Parkland Health & Hospital Foundation.
Who: Nerissa Von Helpenstill, Dustin Holcomb, Pam Busbee, Lisa Cooley, Christie Carter, Katie Derrick, Suzette Derrick, Tiffany Derrick, Joanna Tollenaere White, Lauryn Gayle White, Lauren Tamaoka, Michelle Gross, Aimee Goodell, Kyra Barnett, Lorraine Meenan, Donna Arp Weitzman, and Mary Miller.
Katie Derrick, Suzette Derrick, Tiffany Derrick
Natalie Boerder, Kaleta Blaffer-Johnson, Meredith Connally, Jennifer Cifuentes, Nathalie Barrera, Hayden Hrncir.Photo by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio
A quartet played Rodgers and Hammerstein tunes during dinner. Photo by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio