By Nena Ivon
Nena Ivon with Dennis Minkel, forever friend
Celebrations of life are always a time of reflection…of memories, a joyful time to be held during one’s lifetime. I was beyond honored to be the recipient of such a celebration held recently at an intimate black tie gathering given by my dearest friends, Tom Hawley and Tom Mantel, with invitations created exquisitely by Christine Hawley.
Pam Capitanini, Aaron Shirley, Tanner Branson, David Sanchez with Nena Ivon
The once in a lifetime event was held in the perfectly preserved Mid-Century Modern Bertram Goldberg home of The Toms. No detail was spared from opulent orchids, to fabulous food, to a string Quintet from
the Southwest Symphony playing Mozart and Happy Birthday, to flowing champagne and opulent caviar, and, of course, a breathtaking cake (I obviously forgot how to blow out a single candle…there was only one!!) Most importantly a group of friends, looking like the fashionistas they are…gathering to share my special occasion….that’s what birthdays are all about!
Quintet from Southwest Symphony
The Toms gave tours of their home and we ended in the theater for a champagne toast and a screening of a special video prepared, years ago, by my dear friend, the late Victor Skrebneski, for another special event a 1990 Fashion Group Gala. It gave everyone a few giggles so much so that they kept requesting a rewind of the music: “I’m Still Here” from Sondheim’s Follies the concert version sung by Carol Burnett. It’s an evening I shall always treasure and was glad I Was Still Here to enjoy it!!!
With Brian Smith and Geyer Morford…new forever friends…
