If you're a young professional in Dallas and had to choose only one party to attend this year — this would be it. Dallas Autumn Ball is known for its lively crowd, packed dance floor, and for being a crazy good time.
Party-goers, to the tune of 700, escaped the cold on November 8 and packed into Hotel ZaZa's ballroom at 9 pm for the sold-out event. Dressed to impress, the ladies and gentlemen donned sleek gowns and black-tie attire for what is undoubtedly their favorite party of the season.
Founded by Adam Kraus and chaired by Madison McKay, Taylor Markey, Mikey Bryant, Weldon Boley, and Taylor Deves, Dallas Autumn Ball is now in its seventh year.
Guests were greeted with savory hors d'oeuvres — Korean barbecue-glazed New York steak strips and crispy artichoke croquettes — full champagne flutes, and a quick stop on the red carpet at the photographer's backdrop, just before stepping into the ballroom. The festive welcome included gold, white, and silver bubble-esque balloons from Lushra, adorning the windows and walls.
With the sounds of DJ Souljah and Emerald City Band filling the venue, attendees wasted no time hitting the dance floor — stilettos be damned. Tunes ranged from '90s hip-hop to remixed Latin pop and the crowd couldn't get enough.
Thanks to ZaZa Executive Chef Dan Landsberg, the party people got a chance to refuel, grazing on an array of sliders and some killer macaroni and cheese. And chicken-and-waffle sticks were on hand later in the evening for a late-night nosh.
Busy bartenders manned their top-shelf bars, serving up signature margaritas from Patron, brews from Peroni, and just about any cocktail requested.
Throughout the night, everyone waited their turn to pucker up and say cheese at the popular MirMir photo booth.
Although DAB is the YP party of the season, its purpose goes beyond a glamorous night of fun. The soiree raised $20,000 for Reading Partners of North Texas, a group of local volunteers who help Dallas' underprivileged elementary school-age children master basic reading skills through individual tutoring.
"It is so inspiring to see young professionals turn out every year in support of impacting early education for kids right here in Dallas," said Kraus.
A few notable faces seen at the ball include: Marty Martinez, Raven Gates and Adam Gottschalk from The Bachelor, and Gracie Hunt. Also having a great time were Sabrina Johnson, Jenna Jacobs, Gretchen Neftzger, Lindsay Steffes, Alex Castillo, Carter Inman, Claudia Lode, Preston Hext, Thomas Hoeber, Ashley Phillips, Connor Fleming, Shelly Mahony, Jeff Lohmann, Casey Schuler, Zach Roberts, Rachel Urquhart, Mandy Appleby, Jessica Schroeck, and many more.
Alex Castillo, Carter Inman
Margo Johnson, Lauren Swope, Cathrine Rowsey, Nina Byrd, Chelsea Hargrave, Lauren Ott, Ashley Newton, Emily Fuquay Photo by ASHGPHOTO
The Taste of the Masters group.Photo by ASHGPHOTO
Emcee — and self-proclaimed Georgia peach —Laura Harris.Photo by ASHGPHOTO