Sold-out Charity Gala Bridges Gap from Grant Cuts
After a simulated elevator ride in Ring Companies' warehouse, which was spectacularly transformed into an
elegant rooftop themed party, 400 excited guests arrived at A Night of Southern Elegance and gave generously to
support the works of Fayette Cares.
“Having sold out nearly three weeks before the event, our volunteer team worked tirelessly to ensure guests would
be dazzled by a beautiful venue, delicious food and drink, a lively auction, impressive emcees, passionate
honorary co-chairs, and a rockin' band” said Event Chairperson Marilyn Kain. The evening was filled with beauty and
brilliance with the creative contributions of Mahaffey Tent & Party Rentals, and Defining Touch, LLC.
Breathtaking floral centerpieces from Twigs-n-Things added flair to the festivities. “The only thing that made
the event even better was the tremendous generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests!” says Kain.
A thrilling bidding war erupted for a gourmet dinner party donated by St. Philip the Apostles Catholic Church's
Rev. Stephen Kenny, with guests giving a rousing round of applause when the auctioneer announced the winning bid of
$3,000. Among the impressive auction items were a Rocky Mountain family vacation, professionally guided elk
hunt, Bristol Motor Speedway NASCAR tickets, John Deer Gator from Dandridge Equipment, and NCAA Final Four tickets.
A Night of Southern Elegance pampered guests treating them to valet parking from Southern Valet, hors d'oeuvres
compliments of Eat Well Sushi & Grill, Me and My Tea Room Catering, Chili's, and a seated dinner prepared and donated
by Me and My Tea Room Catering. The meal was presented by a team of hospitality students lead by Dr. and Chef Carol
Silkes of Kemmons Wilson School, with wait service by the Knights of Columbus from St. Philip the Apostle Catholic
Church. Complimented with premium wines from The Stellar Cellar Wine & Spirits and assorted beer from Central
Distributors, Inc., the meal was second to none.
Supporting the works of Fayette Cares were Diamond Sponsor Ring Companies, Platinum Sponsor The Bank of Fayette
County, Gold Sponsor, Memphis Contract Packaging/Softee, and Silver Sponsors Ace Hardware, Bank of America,
Coilmaster, Edward Jones, Fayette Academy, Renaissance, Somerville Bank & Trust, and SomerOak Senior Living
Community.
This party with a purpose was supported by scores of volunteers who contributed tremendous creativity, energy, and
passion to ensure costs were extremely low, thereby maximizing the funds that would go directly to help Fayette Cares.
The nearly $100,000 raised from A Night of Southern Elegance will help replace an equal amount lost in recent grant
budget cuts. The generous contributions made will assure that Fayette Cares can continue to provide shelter and safety
for homeless families and victims of abuse, and offer services to stabilize and empower families in economic crisis
during their time of need.
