Museum District meets Manhattan, for one night only
Martini Madness attendees get into a Big Apple state of mind for over-the-top costume contest
Friends of the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft knew what to expect during the institution’s annual Martini Madness! fall soiree — or so they thought.
All of the usual suspects were present: a selection of handmade martini glasses, cocktail stations, Photobomb’s photo booth and Greenhouse Catering’s signature buffet. But there were some surprising new elements, too.
In tribute to this year’s Big Apple theme, “A New York State of Mind,” partygoers were encouraged to get into character and don costumes inspired by — who else? — their favorite Manhattan personalities.
The costume contest, sponsored by Anne
Kinder, endlessly entertained attendees. Winners Nancy Riviere and Ken Rue dressed up as Liza Minnelli and Andy Warhol, respectively. The latter artist played muse to multiple get-ups, including Heather den Uijl’s “Campbells Soup Cans” dress. After-party arrivals Sarah Ansell and Alex Mata turned heads as the Gatekeeper and Keymaster, from the 1984 cult classic “Ghostbusters.” HCCC supporters also disguised themselves as Lady Liberty, members of Warhol’s Factor and as the cast of “Friends” for the occasion.
Not to be outdone, a selection of martinis, offered by Deep Eddy Vodka and Texas Giant Bourbon Whiskey, anchored the festivities. Classic pours, such as the Cosmopolitan, Whiskey Smash and, of course, the Manhattan, helped fuel the dance party inferno led by DJ Flash Gordon Parks.
In between sets, passed hors d’oeuvres of “old New York” Italian fare swirled through the venue. Much to event chairs
Kara and Ulises Vidal’s delight, the swinging party exceeded its goal, with more than $80,000 raised. Of that amount, $2,000 will be donated to the Houston Food Bank and the Craft Emergency Relief Fund in support of Texas artists affected by Hurricane Harvey.
Armed with a letterpressed memento courtesy of the Printing Museum, sweet treats from Morningstar and those collectible martini glasses, everyone walked away with a crafty souvenir — or three.