The Crowd: Adoption Guild sips ‘cocktails for a cause’

Orange County’s charity-focused nonprofits face creative challenges attracting the crowd to the tried and true events that have been staples of the social scene for decades.

Formal black-tie gala dinners are giving way to more lively affairs themed around dance cutting-edge bands, comedy shows and less-formal and less-expensive events, such as cocktail parties over sit-down banquets.

The same goes for the iconic luncheons. Younger social activists have careers and many manage children as well. Taking hours off for a midweek lunch means pressure at work, and for those at home, the cost of a sitter.

This is not to say that the luncheon is dead. It still thrives, but it too is evolving and modernizing. Organizers know that time matters, so few events require daylong commitments.

Last week in Newport Beach, the Adoption Guild — meeting in support of Holy Family Services Adoption and Foster Care Agency Orange County — abandoned their traditional annual spring luncheon opting for a Thursday evening “cocktails for a cause” reception at Balboa Bay Resort.

Chaired by Pamela Selber, with co-chairs Terri Becker and Christine Johnson sharing the duties, some 150 Adoption Guild patrons arrived at dusk for an upbeat social mixer in the library and on the bayfront terrace of Balboa Bay Resort.

Many commented that the idea was a terrific change of pace.

“It’s like magic,” Selber said.

The chairwoman referred to the energy in the resort library and terrace as well as the evening’s theme, created around a performance from Rich Freeman of Hollywood’s legendary Magic Castle. Freeman paraded the party in his Mad Hatter costume, showing off plenty of sleight of hand and close-up magic — delighting the crowd at cocktail tables. As a surprise bonus, Freeman gifted patrons with invitations to the Magic Castle.

Outside on the terrace, a whiskey-tasting bar attracted the curious as bartenders poured multiple unusual drinks, even a peanut butter whiskey. Ryan Bolton of Hi-Time Wine Sellers provided the libations. Balboa Bay Resort staff passed champagne and wine along with full bar service available. Guests sampled a cocktail buffet featuring BBR signature mac and cheese, beef and chicken sliders and a Viennese sweets display.

Committee members joining the chairs, making it all flow smoothly included Laurie Drake, Pam Fossler, Nancy Collins, Mary Sargenti, Cindy Davidson, Sue Podany and Tina Retrosi.

While catching up with friends, the crowd, including Susan Hill, Alison Hahn, Julie Ahlert, Michele Miller, Stephanie Peleuses, Susan Ridgley, Harriet and Justice Jim Selna, Shar Vincent, Ken Stuart, Joyce White, Eric Davidson, Lewis Becker, Larry Collins, Pam Pharris, Tino Pagano and Mark Turkel, checked out the auction and raffle, including a grand prize drawing from South Coast Plaza, which donated a $2,500 gift certificate.

Funds raised by the Adoption Guild are earmarked for direct financial support of families and expectant mothers in both the adoption and foster care process. To learn more, visit adoptionguild.org.