The charming Le Mistral restaurant in Houston was the intimate setting for the CKW Luxe exclusive appreciation dinner for its editors, members, and supporters on April 20, 2017. Upon entering Le Mistral, guests were enchanted by the beautiful flower arrangements, embellished with musical scores and notes, decorating the tables. The Unique bouquets were created by Pam Rapp from A Cut Above Florals. Dr. Noreen Mayberry, Tox Doc and healthy living editor of CKW Luxe, was the mistress of ceremonies for the lovely evening.

 

Connie Kwan-Wong, founder of CKW Luxe, formally welcomed the guests and spoke passionately about her support of children’s charities. Having seen numerous cases of abuse while practising as a pediatric cardiac sonographer, Connie decided to make it her life’s work to help children through the healing power of art and music. Profits from CKW Luxe go entirely to children’s charities.

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Connie spoke warmly of two charities she works closely with: Houston Grand Opera and Boys & Girls Harbor. HGO is especially involved in sharing the joys of music with children through HGOco, and Boys & Girls Harbor provides stable residential care for children in need and their families. Kathleen Staten, education manager of HGOco, shared Connie’s generosity of spirit with those in attendance. She expressed her appreciation for all of Connie’s support, and especially for her underwriting of the Opera to Go! production of The Barber of Seville and for producing The Armadillo’s Dream, HGOco’s first original storybook.

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Dinner featured a sumptuous culinary journey through France provided by Chef David Denis. Highlights from the menu included: pan-seared sushi grade tuna during the first course, which was paired with Domaine Lafage “Miraflors” Rosé; roasted scallop with olive oil smashed fingerling potatoes during the second course, which was paired with Martin Fierro Torrontés; baked lamb loin with lavender rosemary au jus and ginger carrot purée during the third course, which was paired with Martin Fierro Malbec; and a trilogy of desserts that included opera cake, raspberry Marie Antoinette, and lemon kiss, which was paired with Cave de Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel Rosé. Guests were entertained throughout dinner with live music provided by Edmond Baker.

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The happy occasion perfectly expressed the appreciation CKW Luxe Founder, Connie Kwang-Wong, has for everyone who contributes to the magazine’s success.

  

For more photos, please visit gallery at

www.ckwluxe.com/ckwluxeappreciationatlemistral