Michael Humphries, Cameron Patterson, John Patterson and Jarrod Brown
The “Songs on a Mission” gala, an annual event since 2017, kicked off with cocktails in the foyer, where guests browsed a selection of silent auction items before heading into the ballroom for dinner. Emcee Bryan Simpson, a singer-songwriter, introduced himself along with the other musical guests, Zach Crowell and Ben Johnson, who together have written hits sung by Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw, Blake Shelton and many others. They performed their chart-toppers for the enthralled crowd of 200.
After the jam sesh, the live auction kept the energy high, with prizes like a Caribbean yacht trip and a resort weekend at Horseshoe Bay; the raffle and door prizes contributed greatly to the evening’s total till as well.
Zach Crowell, Bryan Simpson and Ben Johnson
Andi and Chad St. Jean
Traci Morrow, Tiffany Morrow and Kim Jenkins
Bret and Angela Strong
Shari and Ed Wood
Bryan Simpson, Zach Crowell and Ben Johnson on stage
Robert and Stacy Beasley
Gabi and Jarrod Brown
Herb and Alice Burtrum
Rex and Pam Lindberg
Justin and Casey Pollard
Niki Smith and Terri Tarwater
Mia and Jeff Calvert
Lindsey and Carson Tomalin
Mercedes and Ben Ahiabor
Mark and Rhonda Norville, Jeanae King and Mike Aldridge
The Library at La Colombe d'Or
Brennan's of Houston
Brennan's
Whether you want an intimate private gathering or are throwing a big bash, Brennan’s has an event venue for you. Of the nine or so choices, the Wine Room, the Little Room, the Courtyard Balcony and the Courtyard are some favorites.
Eunice
Private room at Eunice (photo by Kirsten Gilliam)
At this stylish Upper Kirby Cajun hotspot, the intimate private dining room accommodates up to 24 and showcases specialty wall treatments including lime washing and textured paper in a wildflower pattern.
Katami
Katami (photo by Casey Giltner)
This newcomer from chef Manabu Horiuchi and biz partner Yun Cheng is a sushi-forward restaurant with extensive focus on Wagyu and sake to complement. Like at its sister spot Kata Robata, fish is flown in almost daily from Japan. Enjoy the culinary adventure in its dedicated private dining room or the sunroom, which can be closed off for a larger private space.
La Colombe d'Or
La Colombe d'Or
This exquisite historical mansion gets the prize for unique private event spaces that truly make you feel at home — only better. Eight resplendent areas are on offer ranging from the handsome Library to the light-washed Conservatory, the stunning Music Room, the Sun Room, the main dining room, and more. There are also three outdoor spaces and a bright area filled with art next door in the Tower Gallery. Spaces can be privatized or combined.
La Griglia
La Griglia’s beautiful new casa sports six private spaces, which include the enchanting Tuscan-style courtyard with twinkling lights and its own bar. Most private spaces are upstairs including Cinema with modern crystal chandeliers and a working wine wall, Elegante with double glass doors overlooking the courtyard, and Segreto tucked behind the wine wall. The courtyard is also on offer, which can seat 80 with capacity for 150 standing.
Le Colonial
The exotic Lotus room is an intimate private dining room located at the back of the lounge and visible through wrought-iron French doors. With seating for up to 18 guests, the room pays homage to the official flower of Vietnam and is anchored by a Jonas Wickman mural rendered in gentle tropical tones.
March
March (photo by Julie Soefer)
The gorgeous private room bathed in blush hues with French doors seats 12 guests. Mediterranean-themed tasting menus offer many options as well as drink pairings – the wine list is something to check out. March also accepts restaurant buy-outs for large groups.
Ostia
The Greenhouse at Ostia
Fan-favorite The Greenhouse at chef Travis McShane’s Italian-meets-Cali spot gets lots of buzz for its great natural light and botanical vibes. The casual indoor-outdoor space can seat 40 and overlooks a lively patio. Its semi-private space seats 16. The dining room, the patio, and entire restaurant are also available for private events.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
Pappas Bros.
The downtown Pappas Bros. Steakhouse is party room central. Choose from five luxuriously appointed spaces of different sizes including the Train Car, the intimate Sidecar, the coveted Wine Room, the Dining Car, and the Lounge.
Rumi's Kitchen
Rumi's Garden Room
This new Persian palace is not only a chic place for holiday wining and dining, but it also sports an impressive private garden room that will wow your group. Wrapped in glass with high ceilings, it dazzles with enchanting dangling lights and is ideal for a standing party or dining.
State of Grace
State of Grace
Anticipate three choices at this stately yet comfy River Oaks haunt: the intimate velvet curtained dining room off the entrance, The Oyster Room, and the entire restaurant can be reserved. There’s also a conveniently hidden chef’s counter where a seven-course meal with optional wine pairings (a must!) can be enjoyed. State of Grace’s new seasonal menu by chef John Quinn features delectably presented Colorado lamb with figs and bone marrow bordelaise, ash-roasted pears with Rogue blue cheese, and more.