Saks reopening bash benefits M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Saks Fifth Avenue’s store preview benefiting the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center attracted 300 philanthropic heavyhitters who paid to attend a VIP cocktail reception and another 700 devoted shoppers who paid for a sneak peek at the expanded luxury store.
In the second-floor 51Fifteen Restaurant & Lounge, a coterie of event chairs gathered — Yvonne and Rufus Cormier, Isabel and Danny David, Courtney Hill Fertitta and Jason Fertitta, Janet Gurwitch, Denise Monteleone and Claire Cormier Thielke and Rick Thielke. Several swans wore fashion designer and special guest Erdem Moralioglu’s intricate designs as they swirled through the packed space. Executive chef Stefan
Rishel’s crab arancini, paired with French 75 cocktails, won over the crowd with his cooking skills and his pink mohawk. His wife, Briana Rishel, matched her husband’s locks in a fuchsia lace sheath.
In his opening remarks, store vice president and general manager Bobby Dees shared a story about a relative’s seven-year battle against throat cancer.
“When he was first diagnosed, someone asked him three questions, ‘Do you want to live? Do you believe in God? And, do you know anyone who lives in Texas?’ ” He sought treatment at M.D. Anderson.
Dees also introduced Saks Fifth Avenue president Marc Metrick.
“Welcome to our new home,” Metrick said. “I definitely plan on coming back for the Super Bowl.”
Then the VIPs dispersed throughout the luxurious store, armed with boxed gift cards to encourage shopping, with sales benefiting charity.
By then, the second round of previewers, who purchased public tickets, arrived in style and ready to party. By night’s end, the wellheeled Houstonians had contributed $154,900 for the Nellie B. Connally Breast Cancer Fund at M.D. Anderson.