Good times roll at Bayou Preservation Association’s Mardi Gras gala
Despite best-laid plans, seasoned hostesses know that al fresco entertaining can be a gamble in Houston.
Though temperatures dipped below 40 degrees for Wednesday night’s Bayou Preservation Gala, it was otherwise an idyllic evening — although many of
Cecily and Rick Burleson’s 200 guests adjusted their wardrobes accordingly, abandoning the “Bon Temps on the Bayou” theme for warmer attire.
But the “good times” motif wasn’t entirely lost. Upon entering the couple’s gated Memorial neighborhood, a canopy of lights hanging from tree limbs formed a warm and inviting welcome banner. The home itself — new construction inspired by a New Orleans plantation — was up-lit by purple spotlights. And Bella Don Dance’s can-can troupe, who braved the cold in red saloon-girl ensembles, really sold the vibe.
Inside her home, Cecily flashed her own plum- and gold-sequined frock, which was partially hidden under a coat.
“My dress is vintage. I found it in New Orleans in the ’90s!” Cecily laughed good-naturedly, swinging the Mardi Gras beads around her neck in jest.
But one accessory didn’t quite jive with her otherwise Bourbon Street-ready outfit: white shoe covers.
The Burlesons hadn’t anticipated such chilly weather, or so many feet trampling through their house. So they asked guests to slip cotton shoe covers over their footwear.
Cecily and Rick gave attendees free rein to roam. Thanks to coming off Daylight Saving Time, Buffalo Bayou wasn’t in view.
So patrons showed themselves upstairs for drinks from one of two cocktail bars. Outside, the Gypsy Dance Theatre band performed poolside as planned. And once Pappas Catering opened its buffet stations for self-service, the party happily moved outdoors for brochette-style shrimp, pasta Mardi Gras and sliced sirloin under the heaters.
Most important, the program raised $75,000 toward the continued protection and restoration of Houston’s bayous and streams.