Hilton Americas-Houston Becomes an “Enchanted Garden” at the 24th Annual Trailblazer Awards Luncheon

Hilton Americas-Houston Becomes an “Enchanted Garden” at the 24th Annual Trailblazer Awards Luncheon

A crowd of over 2,000 excited guests assembled in their floral-inspired couture at Hilton Americas-Houston for the 24th Annual Trailblazer Awards Luncheon. This dynamic ensemble of 211 members is an all-volunteer group, and the event they create each year boggles the mind! Proceeds from this yearly gathering benefited Rodeo ROPES, SPURS, Books Between Kids and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

The event includes an all-day shopping market with booths on both of Hilton’s ballroom floors, a seated luncheon in the largest of the ballrooms with a fashion show courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue, and is followed by a VIP after party, where over 1,000 guests were content on staying until late afternoon, thanks in big part to DJ Johnny “Bravo” Holloway, who kept things lively and interesting, as only he can!

The exciting “Best of Saks” runway extravaganza was presented by renowned fashion producers Lenny Matuszewski and Tamara Klosz Bonar and showcased fashions by designers Sachin and Babi, as well as Nini Jewels. The electrifying show featured cowboy dancers, beautifully clad models, and drone-inspired overhead runway shots, made possible by Stage Directions, which appeared on giant L-E-D screens.

Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue Houston, was aglow as her store proudly showcased its many chic styles, but she was also overly excited, as this year was her first year as a Rookie Trailblazer.

KHOU’s Mia Gradney and Len Cannon were the afternoon’s emcees and guided attendees through the program which included remarks from Rodeo president and CEO Chris Boleman, Trailblazer Officer in Charge Wendy Lewis Armstrong, and Chairman Ann Massey. In her fourth year, Luncheon Leader and Vice Chairman of External Events for the Trailblazers Committee, Debby Young, was on hand to greet attendees. Receiving well-earned recognition for their volunteer spirit, time, talent, generosity, and Rodeo dedication were honorees Isela Garcia, Michelle Iversen Jeffrey, Kristie Manning, Nancy Motley, Taryn Sims, and Jennifer Currey Van Matre.

Houston décor genius Let It Fly Events and their sister company Lone Star Exhibits created colorful floral centerpieces and ballroom designs that coordinated with the “Enchanted Garden” theme and provided visitors with constant “oohs” and “aahs.” A record-breaking crowd, once again, left happy after a great Hilton meal and an afternoon of unbridled fun!

In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned):  Pat Mann Phillips, Katie Clapp, Nini Hale, Liz Weisberg, Kirby and David Lodholz, Amy White, Courtney Adame, Susannah Causey, Tabbetha Lopez, Ellie and Michael Francisco, Hallie Vanderhider and Bobbie Dees, Lisa Blackwood, Dot Mitchell, Julie and Alan Kent, Juan Garcia, Lynda Hartman, Mary Jo Burt, Shelley Pieri, Tammy Shepperd, Kathleen Williams, Meredith Johnson, Sheri Gross, Cinthya Reade, Carol Sawyer, Julie Chen, Fady Armanious, Gretchen Gilliam, Kelly Larkin, Linda and Jim Winne, Joe Van Matre, Jamie Grissom, Jill Watson, Christine Johnson, Jody Merritt, Angela Hernandez, Rachel Regan, Jayne Johnston, Diedra Fontaine, Cyndy Garza Roberts, Shelley Boyer, Angela Montalbano, Pam Springer, Sharleen Walkoviak, Preston Hall, John and Bridgette Grimes