The Sonoma Girls + Boys Club hosted it’s the 29th Annual Sweetheart Gala & Auction and we got to be there to snap black-and-white-tastic photos! We’ve never seen a more awesomely costumed party!

This saloon-styled soiree was a “Salute to the Mavericks of Sonoma Valley: Dale Downing & Don Shone”. Their story is pretty inspiring!

The Maverick’s story begins on July 20, 1969 – the day Dale joined Don and Sherry’s store, Shone’s Country Marketing in Glen Ellen. The two families worked side-by-side for ten years until Dale and his wife, Carole, opened Downings Market in El Verano. After eight years apart, Don and Dale merged their separate businesses and together acquired a third store, Sonoma Market.

Today, Sonoma and Glen Ellen Village Markets are the hubs of their respective communities, serving some 17,000 customers each week and employing hundreds of local peeps. They have withstood every challenge, met every trend, and mastered the art of service. Their success has enabled them to share their good fortune with many Sonoma Valley nonprofits but none more so than the Boys & Girls Club.

The event began on the River Queen with a cocktail reception and a small silent auction featuring getaways, art, wine, and more. The reception included a full bar compliments of Southern Wines & Spirits; Spirits Bar by 35 Maple St and Prohibition Spirits; Entertainment by Low Rent Hot Club; wines by Bartholomew Park Winery and Envolve Winery; and beer by Lagunitas Brewing Company.

Dining in the Grand Ballroom was provided by Elaine Bell Catering. Since 1971 Elaine is known for creating unique dishes using the abundance of local agricultural products from Sonoma County. She has worked to contribute to the current style and grace of wine country events.
There will be live entertainment by Lawrence Beaman. Lawrence is a native of the Deep South (Mississippi) and his quiet, humble upbringing is a complete contrast to his booming voice and intense passion for music.

Following dinner enjoy a steamy night at the casino, Texas Hold’Em tournaments, dancing, libations, and a late night menu.

The Boys & Girls Club offers year-round programs focused on helping youth achieve academic success, healthy lifestyles and good character and leadership.
The Club has been serving Sonoma Valley youth since 1962 and today serves over 2000 Sonoma Valley youth annually.

Each day, over 500 kids come to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley. They come to play, of course. But also to learn the things that their schools are cutting back on: arts, athletics, computer science — we even help them complete their homework. In 2012, the Club served 79,000 snacks and 6800 meals. Nourishment isn’t limited to food; the Club is staffed with smart, caring adults who provide the instruction and encouragement kids need to learn and grow.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley is open to all youth ages 6-18 and has a special focus on children and teens from challenging or disadvantaged circumstances. The Club reaches out to children in need, giving them support, guidance and hope for the future. The Club keeps dues low and does not turn a child away because of inability to pay.

See our awesomesauce video!

Boys and Girls Club of Sonoma Sweetheart Gala from Giggle and Riot on Vimeo.

We SO enjoyed this fabulous, sold out event!

Stay Classy Sonoma! – Giggle + Riot