Location: Royal Sonesta Hotel

It’s always raining men at the Una Notte in Italia party, which is why it’s one of my favorite parties of the year! Friday night was the scene of the annual “Una Notte in Italia” benefitting Bo’s Place and this fun-filled gala of all things Italian did not disappoint! Known as one of the most fun events of the social season close to 700 guests cheered on philanthropic men and athletes who took to the runway in fab fall fashions by Festari for Men all for a good cause. Co-chaired by Stacy Soriero and Tiffany Wong and along with Honorary Chairman Debbie Festari guests were treated to a lively cocktail hour complete with a premiere tequila bar hosted by Riazul. A seated dinner followed with fine Italian wines and cuisine as Emcee Dominique Sachse of KPRC Channel 2 spoke to the accomplishments of the 25 men strutting the runway to their favorite personally selected music. The gents included businessmen Rick Perez, David Shine, Joe Ellis, Tony Gibson, Bashar Kalai and Ben Berg. Bo’s Place Board President Travis Torrence also walked bringing the house down with his soul inspired dance to old school music! Also looking good were athletes Dynamo soccer player David Horst, Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, 3-time Olympian Steven Lopez and Houston Texans, Andre Hal, Christian Covington and Whitney Mercilus.

Following the fashion show Debbie and Rudy Festari, event founders, were presented with a Proclamation from the City for their many years of fundraising and helping to raise over $4 million dollars with this annual gala! Then Auctioneer Andy Cerota took to the stage along with this year’s Miss Texas-USA Nancy Gonzalez to present the live auction which included a trip to Italy as well as a seated dinner with two Texans at the popular B&B Butchers and Restaurant. The night finally ended with the crowd heading to the dance floor to enjoy the sounds of popular DJ Senega in an elegant lounge setting. Bo’s place a non-profit bereavement center was proud to once again be the recipient on this special night!

Debbie Festari also spoke with love in her heart to the generous donation made to Bo’s Place from the Sutton Family Foundation on behalf of Chris and Megan Sutton Reed for the recent loss of their young son Braxton Davies Reed.

Photos/Assistance by Jaquel Andrews