Equest’s Brilliant Patron Party Reined in Sunshine
Equest “40 Years of Horse Power” Anniversary Gala
(Featured photo: Katherine Wyker, Lisa Laughlin, Co-Chairs)*
The clouds parted to let the sun’s brilliant rays shine upon Equest’s patron party for its landmark “40 Years of Horse Power” Anniversary Gala last Thursday. Marie Gabrielle’s beautiful garden oasis set the backdrop for a perfect outdoor soiree, hosted by Diane and Hal Brierly, for the 70 well-dressed attendees and two Equest Mini Ambassadors.
Co-Chairs Lisa Laughlin and Katherine Wyker, both adorned in vibrant flowered party dresses and accompanied by their husbands, Kendall and Austin, greeted guests and chatted about the numerous exciting details planned for the June 5th Anniversary Gala at the new Al Hill, Jr. Arena at Equest at Texas Horse Park. Equest Mini Ambassadors Ranger and Dare took centerstage at the step-and-repeat for Instagram-worthy photos. 2019 Gala Chairs Annie and Teal Griffeth and Honorary Chair Louise Griffeth, prized team recognized for raising the most funds at a gala in Equest’s 40-year history, popped in to cheer on the 2021 Chairs who have already exceeded expectations with an almost sold out event of 550 tickets sold and 50 percent of their fundraising goal achieved.
At the end of the day, the parties, bites, and drinks are all about a noble cause, and five Equest clients reminded attendees of Equest’s mission to provide hope and healing through the power of the horse. Kevin Cartier, Olivia Gonzales, Brendan Pritchard, Ryan Wolf, and Stacey Johnson – whether donning horse competition ribbons, sharing their horse-connection story, or even just thanking the audience for their support – spread goodwill and heart to all who listened.
Notable attendees included: Equest CEO Lili Kellogg, Equest Chairman of the Board Lindsay Kirton, Connie and John Pearcy, Misty and Steven Smathers, Beth Layton and her daughter, Katie, Betsy and Thomas Curnes, and Kim and Greg Hext.
Equest’s 40th Anniversary Gala: Celebrating 40 Years of Horse Power will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021, 6:00 to 11:00 p.m., at its newest facility, the Al Hill, Jr. Arena, at Equest at Texas Horse Park (811 Pemberton Hill Road, Dallas, TX 75217). Underwriting opportunities are available at various levels. Tables for 10 are available to purchase starting at $5,000 and individual tickets for $250 at www.equest.org/gala. For more information, please visit www.equest.org or call 972.412.1099.
* Photos by Bob Manzano
