Traveling from all over the globe, top Bulgari executives joined local Museum and jewelry enthusiasts for a night celebrating gorgeous gems in our dazzling city – the opening gala for Bulgari: 130 Years of Masterpieces at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
The night began in the 3rd floor exhibition space (now open to the public; click here for tickets), featuring 150 pieces of sparkling Bulgari necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and minaudière, including precious pieces from the Elizabeth Taylor Heritage Collection. J. Ben Bourgeois Productions transformed Herzstein Hall into in a graceful garden space with scenes of the Spanish Steps, floral chandeliers, and elegant candlelight. City Kitchen Catering pleased the palate with a three-course dinner, featuring jumbo lump crab meat, saddle of lamb, and mascarpone strawberries. In an ethereal ivory floral headpiece, Elizaveta (you may recognize her from this Scandal promo) led a trio for a set that perfectly complemented the romantic elegance of the evening.
The chairman of the evening, Windi Grimes, joined President Joel Bartsch in welcoming guests and introducing Nicola Bulgari and Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bulgari. Ever the belle of the ball, Grimes thrilled guests with her own surprise touch – DiVine, a “living vine” that gracefully moved throughout the exhibition and dinner space. It was the cherry on top of the awe-inspiring evening.
Photography by Priscilla Dickson.
Joel Bartsch and Naomi Watts.
Joanne King Herring and Bulgari Vice President of Retail and Wholesale Nathalie Diamantis.
DiVine, Monsour Taghdisi and Henry Richardson.
Anne Shepherd and Carson Seeligson.
Pat Breen and Lynn Wyatt.
Jana and Scotty Arnoldy, Karol Barnhart, and Laurie Morian,
Sam and Melinda Stubbs, Sharyn and Jim Weaver.
Bulgari Managing Director Sabina Belli and Naomi Watts.
Greggory Burk and HMNS Chairman of the Board Patrick Burk.
Ashley Menzies and Claire Thielke.
Event Chairman Windi Grimes and HMNS President Joel Bartsch.
