A Glamorous Afternoon in Bal Harbour: The 3rd Annual Haute Tea Party
Shooting Stars Dutchess: Buttery soft suede Ostritch and total Diamond Skin, with over 400 white, black, and brown diamonds; equivalent to over 6 Carats. Price at the time: $24,000
Fashion Gurls Magazine was thrilled to attend the much-anticipated 3rd Annual Haute Tea Party, a dazzling event that brought together Miami’s elite and fashion-forward attendees for a noble cause. Held at the luxury St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, this British-themed luncheon attracted around 250 esteemed guests, including celebrities, socialites, and influential figures, united by their passion for philanthropy and fashion.
Sponsored by Warren Henry and Haute Living, the sold-out event raised an impressive $70,000 for the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine, highlighting the collective commitment to raise awareness and support for type 1 diabetes. The event was held in honor of Linda Gibb, the chairman of Love and Hope International, who has been an inspiring figure in advocating for the cause.
The afternoon kicked off with a glamorous cocktail reception, setting the tone for a beautiful gathering. As guests sipped champagne, they were welcomed by Royal Palace guards, adding an air of regality and celebration to the event. Following the reception, attendees were escorted into an elegantly decorated ballroom where they indulged in a formal tea service complemented by a delectable three-course lunch served on fine silverware provided by Christophle. Luxe floral arrangements from Kalla adorned each table, creating a lavish atmosphere reminiscent of traditional British tea parties.
Event co-chairs, Jillian Posner and Dr. Stacy Chimento, took the stage to address the crowd. “It’s amazing to see this amount of beautiful women, all joined together by our determination to raise awareness for type 1 diabetes,” Posner declared passionately. Dr. Chimento echoed her sentiments with heartfelt gratitude, stating, “We really appreciate it, as do the millions of children and adults who are living with diabetes.” Their remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the sense of purpose that underscored the day’s festivities.
One of the highlights of the affair was the silent and live auctions, expertly managed by Miami HEAT’s TV Host and Courtside Reporter Jason Jackson. Guests eagerly bid on an array of lady-centric items that included exquisite jewelry and handbags from Gabriella | WIMMER Haute Couture, luxurious weekend getaways at the Gale South Beach and St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, along with a thrilling South African safari trip and rejuvenating spa gift certificates.
Fashion enthusiasts were particularly captivated by the Haute Hat Contest, where special guest judges, including WSVN’s Deco Drive Reporter and Fashion Blogger Shireen Sandoval, The Fashion Poet Founder Annie Vazquez, and 2013 Kentucky Derby Fashion Contest winner Suzy Buckley Woodward, searched the room for the most stunning hats. Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour elevated the experience with a spectacular runway show featuring the latest trends on a chic Union Jack catwalk, transporting the audience to the heart of London Fashion Week.
As the judges announced the winners of the hat contest, excitement filled the air. Carly Patterson took home the award for Best Hat to Heels, Sara Kaplan was named Best Fascinator, and Diane Ares won Best Hat. With stylish attire and philanthropic spirit, the 3rd Annual Haute Tea Party was not just an event—it was a beautiful celebration of compassion, elegance, and community. Fashion Gurls Magazine proudly champions such initiatives that intertwine style with a cause, and we look forward to attending more inspiring events in the future.
