For over a decade, a highly anticipated summer event has drawn a fashionable crowd to the Hamptons. This year marks the 12th iteration of a luxury luncheon, an affair established to honor the memory of a beloved spouse lost to cancer. The intricate planning behind the scenes falls to a dedicated team of event specialists who have been instrumental in its growth and success.
The planners, who have collaborated with the hostess since the event’s inception, describe the partnership as one of their most rewarding. “She is an absolute joy to work with,” they shared. “To think we’ve been crafting this Hamptons highlight for twelve seasons is incredible. It’s evolved into a signature summer moment, and we’ve grown right alongside it. Taking creative ownership has been a privilege, and we’re thrilled to unveil some fresh elements this year.”
The luncheon serves a dual purpose, blending high-end entertainment with meaningful philanthropy. A core mission is to raise both awareness and crucial funds for thyroid cancer research, a cause deeply personal to the event’s origins. The planners carry forward a simple, powerful mantra from the honoree—”One more. That’s it”—which fuels their efforts annually.
Reflecting on fond memories, the team pointed to the early years spent with the event’s namesake. “He was a central part of the heart and soul of this gathering,” they noted. The greatest reward, however, comes on the day itself. “After nearly a year of meticulous curation and production, seeing guests connect, discover new brands, and simply enjoy themselves is what makes all the hard work worthwhile. The Hamptons becomes our summer playground, albeit a very busy one.”
This year’s attendees can expect a curated selection of luxury vendors and experiences. The lineup includes notable brands from the tech, beauty, and wellness sectors, with several making their debut at the event. A special highlight will be consultations regarding a certain FDA-approved treatment for women’s health. Guests will also depart with coveted VIP gift bags, filled with premium products from an array of sought-after labels. The culinary experience promises to be equally impressive, featuring offerings from esteemed local caterers, a popular food truck, and a famed bakery.
The selection process for the participating businesses is exacting. Having earned the hostess’s full trust over the years, the planners now have final say on all creative aspects. “We curate every detail, from vendors to onsite experiences,” they explained. “Our goal is to introduce new surprises each year, even for our hostess, so she can feel the excitement of an attendee. Keeping elements like the gift bags a secret until the last moment is part of the fun and ensures the event always feels fresh, while retaining the beloved traditions our guests return for.”
