Nov. 17, 2016

12th Annual Old Bags Luncheon

Left: Fashions presented by Neiman Marcus. Middle, top: Nan Howlett and Kathy Harris. Middle, bottom: Handbags in the silent auction; Right, top: Decor by White House Design Studio. Right, bottom: Melissa Rein Lively, Corrie Wichterman and Paula Wichterman

Approximately 500 guests – mostly women, but a few brave men, as well – attended the 12^th annual Old Bags Luncheon at the Arizona Biltmore. The popular event benefits Homeward Bound, a Valley nonprofit agency that supports more than 150 families annually by providing housing plus a program to help them get back on their feet. This year’s event on Nov. 10 celebrated the organization’s 25^th anniversary.

The luncheon featured a silent auction with a selection of 275 new and gently used vintage handbags contributed by the community. Neiman Marcus donated handbags valued in excess of $30,000. During the pre-luncheon activities, the retailer presented fashions, and Galicia Fine Jewelers displayed an array of accessories available for purchase. The jeweler will donate 20 percent of all November sales to Homeward Bound.

Including the silent auction and a raffle for five designer bags, the afternoon grossed more than $350,000 to benefit the children and families of Homeward Bound.

Following the silent auction, guests enjoyed a luncheon on the Biltmore’s Squaw Peak Terrace. White House Design Studio turned the tent into a perfect garden-party setting, with fanciful umbrellas hanging from the ceiling and tables beautifully appointed in green, yellow, pink and patterned cloths and bright monochromatic arrangements of daisies, tulips and mums.

Nan Howlett and Kathy Harris co-chaired the luncheon with Shelley and Pat McGinley as their honorary chairs. Cheryl Ruggiero, the director of charitable giving with Thunderbird Charities, was honored with Homeward Bound’s first Luminary Award. The award recognizes an individual who inspires and influences others in a positive way and advocates for Homeward Bound families. Tram Mai, anchor and reporter for 12 Today, emceed the afternoon. Becky Jackson, the new president and CEO of Homeward Bound, greeted and welcomed the guests.

HAUTE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY