(SANTA ROSA BEACH, Fla.) February 10, 2017 – Art and food lovers packed the Tack Room at Arnett’s Gulfside Ranch in Santa Rosa Beach for Shelter House’s newest signature fundraising event, Palate & Palette: Five-Course Wine Dinner and Live Painting. In just a few hours, the event brought in close to $18,000 to benefit the domestic and sexual violence center.
The first-time event offered a unique blend of art, food and music and sold out well in advance. “It was so encouraging to see 120 people come out to support Shelter House and our mission,” said Rosalyn Iovieno, Shelter House executive director. “All of the services we provide are free to survivors, and events like Palate & Palette not only bring in critical funds but also raise awareness about what we do and the need in this community.”
The event kicked off with a Bourbon and Brews Hour featuring local craft beer and spirits by Grayton Beer Company and Timber Creek Distillery. Attendees were then treated to an indulgent five-course dinner by the Emerald Coast’s best chefs. The featured chefs were Nikhil Abuvala of Roux 30A, Tim Creehan of Cuvee 30A and Destin Ice Market 30A, John Engle of The Gulf Okaloosa Island, Jack McGuckin of Bijoux and Dan Pettis of Fuel Restaurant and One20: A Modern Bistro. Each course was perfectly paired with wines from Krutz Family Cellars of Sonoma County, California.
While guests dined, New Orleans-based artist Jon Moody, whose work has been seen on the hit television show “Empire” as well as recognized by the White House, created a stunning piece of art in front of the audience.
“Shelter House helps people grow, and I wanted this piece to be about empowerment, energy, growth and love,” said Moody. “I always try to become the piece a little bit and work to evoke love and great energy all the time.”
At the end of the evening, Chris Camp of Luxury Estates Auction Company led an exciting live auction for Moody’s one-of-a-kind creation. The winning bid was $4,500 by Shelter House board president Calvin Jones.
Dion Moniz, president of Palate & Palette’s premier sponsor, Emerald Coast Title Services, said, “Shelter House is a great organization, and we didn’t have to think twice about supporting them and this event.”
Special thanks to RSVP Events for event décor, B-Boy Productions for DJ services, STM Photography for videography, Tre’ Cole for photography and all chefs, restaurants and beverage sponsors.
Shelter House’s other signature event, Purses with a Purpose, is scheduled for March 24-25 at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. More information on this event can be found on the Shelter House Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ShelterHouseNWFL.