Shining Bright for a Cause: ACGC's Starry Night Gala

What happens when you mix a rooftop performance by the incredible Scott Strickland, a live auction, and an intimate fundraiser for a good cause? You get the Austin Originals Benefit Concert, a night that will be etched in our memories forever. The event, hosted by the Austin Child Guidance Center (ACGC), was a silver-themed extravaganza that brought together the Austin community to support accessible mental health care for children and families of Central Texas.

Behind the scenes, Kristi and her dedicated team at Eclipse Event Co. labored tirelessly to create an unforgettable evening. They waved their magic wands, transforming The Riley Building into a celestial dreamscape reminiscent of a starry night. The venue was adorned with breathtaking florals and decor courtesy of Kitsch Event Styling, while Premiere Events provided the elegant rentals that completed the enchanting ambiance. From setting up the rooftop stage to arranging cocktail highboy tables and even crafting a dance floor that shimmered like the Milky Way, their meticulous attention to detail was nothing short of stellar.

The night kicked off with a cocktail hour on the rooftop, where guests sipped on refreshing beverages served by the friendly bartenders. ACGC volunteers mingled, showcasing silent auction items and promoting the cause. John Winters Photography captured the moments, while White Wolf Media was on hand to create a pre-event video that would capture the spirit of the evening.

Austin Catering served up a feast fit for the occasion. Guests enjoyed a plated salad with goat cheese, fresh strawberries, and champagne vinaigrette, followed by a duet entree featuring pecan-crusted chicken breast and grilled salmon with creamy risotto. It was a meal that left everyone starry-eyed!

The main attraction of the evening was a lively live auction, expertly hosted by a charismatic auctioneer from Hoot Auctions. The atmosphere was electric, with bids soaring to new heights as guests eagerly competed for a wide array of incredible items. From luxurious getaways to a coveted signed album by none other than Taylor Swift herself, every item up for bid was a testament to the unwavering commitment to supporting ACGC's vital mission.

The highlight of the evening was the Phyllis Richards Icon for Youth Awards. Four deserving individuals were honored for their contributions to the community, with heartfelt speeches that left everyone in awe.

And then, the moment we had all been waiting for – Scott Strickland took the rooftop stage! His electrifying performance had everyone on their feet, dancing the night away. It was a perfect ending to a star-studded evening.

In the end, it was not just a night of fun and glamour; it was a night of impact. The Austin Originals Benefit Concert raised over $100,000, a testament to the generosity of the Austin community. These funds will go towards providing accessible mental health care to children and families who need it most.

The 10th-anniversary silver-themed gala was a night to remember, filled with music, laughter, and the warmth of giving back. ACGC, with the support of the Austin community and a host of incredible vendors, proved that together, we can create magic and make a difference. Here's to many more years of supporting the cause and creating starry nights that shine bright in our memories!