Cancer Support House hosts 17th Annual Wine & Roses

More than 350 guests came out to the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House on Saturday evening (April 6) to celebrate the organization’s 17th Annual Wine & Roses Gala. Filled with art, music, gourmet food and of course, fine wine, the event proved to be a true record-breaking success.

Tickets for the black-tie optional gala were $100 and included dinner, drinks, dancing and the opportunity to participate in the evening’s live and silent auctions. Fundraising was off to a great start even before the night began, with organizers raising an unprecedented amount in sponsorship dollars alone.

“We secured an incredible number of sponsorships this year, raising $83,000,” said committee member Lady Jane Cohen. “We are thrilled!”

Upon arrival, guests walked the red carpet and into the lobby, where they were greeted by a stunning entryway roses showpiece, setting the theme for the entire evening. Visitors then selected from a variety of white and red options at the wine bar, donated by In Good Spirits, before making their way into the dining area.

A decadent spread of fruit, imported cheeses, seafood, and other treats from 21 West End was set-up in the dining room. After making their plates, many guests took advantage of the beautiful spring weather and moved to the outdoor patio where tables and tents lined the yard.

The aroma of more than a thousand roses filled the air, which floral pieces situated throughout the entire venue. One hundred dozen bouquets of roses were on display, each serving as a tribute to someone who battled cancer or in memory of someone who passed away from the disease.

Wine & Roses serves as the Cancer Support House’s premier fundraiser, raising more than $150,000 in 2012. All proceeds from the event benefit the support house’s many programs and initiatives.

“Funds will be used to allow us to provide free services to cancer patients of all kinds,” said Executive Director Martha Pendleton. “These include salon services, such as wigs, hats and turbans, support groups, prescription assistance, transportation assistance, medical supplies, education sessions, prevention education, screening events and much more.”

Works of 10 local and regional artists were featured at the gala, with pieces available for purchase in the art silent auction. Artists displayed a variety of mediums, including photography, painting, and even jewelry. Galleries of the individual artists’ work were stationed throughout the support house for visitors to browse.

For the fourth consecutive year, the father and son duo, respectively, of Jim and Michael Hadley headed up the exclusive wine auction. Bidders gave hundreds of dollars for individual bottles of wine, many of which were donated from private collections.

“The live auction is the cornerstone of the event,” noted Pendleton.

Historically, the wine auction has raised between $25,000 and $50,000 for the organization.

Following the auction, guests took to the dance floor to enjoy the music of the band Wing Nut.