Recap: Children’s Hospital Sugarplum Ball In New Orleans

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On Friday, March 8, 2013, Children’s Hospital of New Orleans hosted its annual Sugarplum Ball.  This sold out event took place at the historic old Ursuline Convent with proceeds benefiting the hospital’s Autism Center. Co- chaired by Christy Kane and Betsey Todd, the Sugarplum honoree was pediatric orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Andrew King.

The Old Ursuline Convent (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

Party goers were treated to delicious food from some of the city’s most popular including Trey Yen Cuisine of China, Saints Marie Brasserie, Haydel’s Bakery, Squeal Bar-B-Q, Maximo’s Italian Grill and Borgne.  One of the big hits of the night was Drago’s Seafood Restaurant who served up hot char-grilled oysters and ice cold Abita beer out of a customized fire truck.

Haydel’s Bakery display with Eiffel Tower cake. (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

With the theme of “Midnight in Paris”, the ball was perfectly located at the Ursuline Convent. Attendees were free to explore parts of the convent and view many of the centuries’ old artifacts many of which originated from France.

Ray Bias of Acadian Ambulance with wife Betty. (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

Auction items were numerous, many of which tied into the theme or cause of the night. For example, bidders had the chance to go home with a contemporary Italian-fired Trumeau mirror with Frances Swigart-Steg etching and giltwood frame, donated in memory of the artist’s autistic daughter, Donna Vella. Wirthmore Antiques provided a 18th century Directoire walnut French Desk.

Jessica DeSalvo with Dr. John Schwartz & Ginger Schwartz (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

Style was also at the forefront of the night’s event. Ladies were dressed in everything from cute cocktail dress to formal gowns. There were even a few flapper/Moulin Rouge inspired outfits to coincide with the team. The gentlemen were all dressed in formal tuxedos.

Jacob Brasher & Neil Marienllo make a stylish statement in their colorful bow ties. (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

Michelle Lopez, Heidi Forster, Christina Lopez and Shannon Mese make a chic quartet as they enjoy a “girls night” at the ball. (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

Entertainment was provided by Phat Hat. The band was fabulous, playing a collection of blues and R&B hits. The leader singer even hit the dance floor serenading and dancing with the crowd.

Gina Maone-Autin & Teresa L. Vance enjoying the sounds of Phat Hat. (Photo Credit: Kenniece Johnson)

What an amazing night! Everything from the food, to the entertainment and ambiance was as the French would say, très magnifique! To learn more on how you can support Children’s Hospital, please click here.

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