At the crossroads of fashion and philanthropy, JDRF Dream Guild’s holiday luncheon kicked off its Type1 diabetes fundraiser with runway-ready style.
The Versace-sponsored event began with shopping and Champagne in the all-too-chic Versace boutique at South Coast Plaza. “Versace was kind enough to sponsor us this year, which is wonderful because we all love to shop here,” event chair Lori Kenyon Farley said.
Everything about this year’s luncheon – which succeeded in raising $72,000 for Orange County’s JDRF chapter in its pursuit of a cure for Type 1 diabetes – was as elegant as the women behind it: Dream Guild members and event chairs Trish Coury, Lori Kenyon Farley and Cathie Lawler spent six months planning a gorgeous afternoon. Guests arrived at the AnQi Gourmet Bistro and Noodle Bar for a bite, silent auction and raffle. Auction items included an exclusive birthday party at TopShop LA and three-night stay at the Dorchester in London. The dining room, illuminated by blue lights, dazzled with frosted ornaments hung from a cascade of bare branches.
For Toni Berlinger, event chair for the upcoming JDRF Dream Gala, the cause is personal: Her oldest grandson was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was 3 months old. “I’m so grateful to Versace for supporting us,” she said.
The Dream Guild will celebrate its platinum, 20th anniversary at the annual Dream Gala, March 16 at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel.
