ASCEND gala, Charleston International Antiques Week, and Soup-a-Bowl
The ASCEND Foundation inspires us to “imagine a world without cancer,” and its fifth anniversary gala last Thursday at the Rice Mill was a grand celebration of life, health, and longevity. Mayor Riley was honored for his personal work on behalf of raising awareness of cancer prevention, while the Chemo Duck Project was hailed for its innovative work with children who are coping with cancer.
The East Coast Party Band wasted no time getting guests in a celebratory mood— the joint was rocking from the moment I entered the building. Ladies is long gowns swirled about, and the spring-like weather brought many strapless dresses out of the closet. The birds-eye view of the dazzling sunset from the rear patio lured dozens guests outside in time to watch the colors melt across the sky over the Ashley River.
Across town, a well-heeled crowd gathered at 40 East Bay Street for the Charleston International Antiques Show VIP Preview Gala. Featuring more than 30 of the nation’s premier antiques dealers, the show offered tastes of the refined life, and everything from textiles to furniture were available for purchase. I admired the pen and ink renderings that were acquired by a friend, and I chatted with Historic Charleston Foundation executive director Kitty Robinson about the fun events planned throughout the weekend. Although born and raised in Charleston, I always enjoy playing tourist in my own town when it is time for the foundation’s annual tour of homes and gardens, which coincides with the antiques show. Wandering in and out of storied residences and stately gardens is a wonderful way to welcome spring. I hear tickets are still available to several tours, although they often sell-out quickly. Visit historiccharleston.org to learn more.
I didn’t have much time to explore the show on Thursday night since the preview gala overlapped with the ASCEND gala (tis the season!), so I returned on Friday for the Young Collectors Soiree. A gaggle of pretty young things had donned their loveliest silk shifts and sharpest bow ties for this gathering of up-and-coming bon vivants. Although I didn’t see many guests exploring the vendor stalls, I could hear the clinking of glasses and conversations tinged with merriment.
On Sunday, supporters of the Hollins Cancer Center and DragonBoat Charleston turned up and Fire & Earth in West Ashley for the annual Soup-a-Bowl event. Guests received a one-of-a-kind bowl in return for a moderate donation, and the bowls were quickly filled with delicious soup courtesy of Five Loaves. Guests milled about the store and spilled out onto the front lawn of the brick-house-turned-pottery-studio. I’ve had the good fortune to hang around the DragonBoat ladies in the past, and I would be hard pressed to find a more spirited group of women. They really celebrate life each and every day!
Ahead this week:
Fête Set Pick
Tuesday - Thursday, March 20 - 24
Charleston Fashion Week
Charleston Fashion Week has taken over Marion Square and will present five nights of lively fashion shows, similar to the famed shows held in NYC’s Bryant Park. Different stores will be strutting their stuff all week, so check out the website for the exact line-up.
Check site for times.
Marion Square
$20 - $270
971.9811
charlestonfashionweek.com
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Fête Set Pick
Thursday, March 22
Water for Life Gala
This spectacular event will kick off Water for Life week, sponsored by Water Missions International. The gala will celebrate the work of providing safe water to people in developing countries and disaster areas. Cocktails, dinner, silent and live auction.
6 p.m.
Charleston Place
$150
watermissions.org
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Fête Set Pick
Saturday, March 24
Water for Life Walk
Inspired by the experience of women and children in countries lacking safe water. Women often have to walk as much as four miles a day simply to retrieve water for their families. Following the walk, enjoy fun activities for the entire family. Participants will raise pledges in support of the global water crisis.
9 a.m.
Hazel Parker Playground
Visit the website to register: watermissions.org
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Fête Set Pick
Saturday, March 24
Charleston Fashion Week Finale
Celebrate the pizzaz and panache of Charleston style at the grand finale party, which includes food and drink along with a special appearance by Laura Bennett of Project Runway fame.
7:30 p.m.
Marion Square
$85
charlestonfashionweek.com
Caritas.
Ida
