Pawpurrazzi 2014: A Purr-fect Party and a Dog-gone Lot of Fun
Benefiting Humane Society of Greater Miami
Pawpurrazzi 2014 had more than 500 guests and their dogs buckled in their seats traveling to London for a trip of a lifetime—or as the Brits say, “Brilliant. Simply, brilliant!” Pawpurrazzi, raising more than $600,000, benefited the Humane Society of Greater Miami and was chaired by Pat and Milton Wallace and Bunny Bastian, three amazing people who know the meaning of excellence and how to throw a fabulous party. South Motors was the Presenting Sponsor for the sixth year and made the event’s raffle over the top by donating a two-year lease for a MINI Cooper. Taking place at Jungle Island, this was the most awesome “paw-some” affair in town with the London décor created by the incredible Karla Dascal of Karla Conceptual Event Experiences. The ballroom sparkled with silver tablecloths, beautiful red tulips and clear tall candelabras on each table. Dogs and their owners had their picture taken in front of a London street scene and then took the photos home as a souvenir of a fabulous evening.
Cynthia Demos and Eliott Rodriguez, anchors for CBS4, were the emcees for the “Great Pets Who Walk in Front of Great People” show, which is the highlight of the evening. More than 27 exclusive guests and their furry friends were spotlighted, some walking shelter dogs down the runway. This show never disappoints! Six homeless dogs were adopted during the evening, starting their new lives in wonderful and loving homes. And isn’t that what this event is all about?
The Pawpurrazzi silent auction, organized by Marisa-Cisneros-Rizzon, Ann Rubino, and Juan Lopez, Vice president and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, Dadeland, lived up to its reputation as being the best auction in town. It was filled with haute couture clothing, incredible jewelry, exciting trips, beautiful accessories for the home and top-of-the-line designer names. Bulgari, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, Chloe, Dior, Ermenegildo Zegna, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Valentino were all there. You don’t see auctions like this one anywhere else.
Homeless cats weren’t forgotten at Pawpurrazzi. After the runway show, Rebekah Diaz Fandrei and Company performed many selections from “Aristocats” and “Cats,” which added to the excitement of the evening. Even the dogs enjoyed the show, showing their appreciation by barking in unison.
The event began with a cocktail reception filled with fun activities for both two and four-legged guests. The dogs, who really are the stars of the evening, received their own fun accessory and special tasty treats. Their owners sipped on cocktails donated by Bacardi, USA and enjoyed a royal selection of hors d’oeuvres before indulging in a delicious dinner. Thanks to Bern Levine and Andy Juska of Jungle Island, the food was simply superb and guests couldn’t stop raving about it. It was a feast meant for a king!
Mark your calendar for Pawpurrazzi 2015, scheduled for Friday, January 23, 2015! For more information, call or email Laurie Hoffman at 305-749-1815 or laurie@humanesocietymiami.org.
