A couple weeks ago I was fortunate enough to photograph the 35th Anniversary Refugees International Gala at Andrew Mellon Auditorium. When Jennifer of Something Fabulous (the event designer for the Gala) contacted me for the job, I didn’t hesitate before saying “Yes!” The Something Fabulous team is always a pleasure to work for, and Kendra with Refugees International was so kind and wonderful to get to know. An independent organization, RI does not accept any Government or UN funding. The majority of the funds they need to operate throughout the year are raised at the annual Gala in DC. And this year was a record year for the organization.
The 2014 Gala hosted many VIPs and award recipients, such as Matt Dillon, Forest Whitaker, José Andrés, Sam Waterston, Congressman Ed Royce, and Dr. Seri Bakkar. It was a pleasure and an honor to be among such notable individuals who have not only achieved so much in their own respective professions but also give so much back to the world.
Here are a few images from the evening…
Sam Waterston at the Step and Repeat…
(Left to Right): Dr. Seri Bakkar – Regional Director of Syria Relief and Development, and Richard C. Holbrooke Leadership Award recipient; Kati Marton – celebrated writer and a staunch advocate for human rights, whose late husband was Richard Holbrooke; Matt Dillon – Actor, RI Board Member, and Master of Ceremonies; and Farooq Kathwari – CEO of Ethan Allen Interiors and award presenter.
Chairman Ed Royce, Congressional Leadership Award recipient.
Kathleen Matthews…
Sam Waterston and Forest Whitaker backstage, reviewing their speeches.
Jose Andres, world-renowned chef and McCall-Pierpaoli Humanitarian Award recipient.
Forrest Whitaker, award-winning Actor and recipient of the McCall-Pierpaoli Humanitarian Award, speaks to a sold-out Gala.
And…yours truly with Matt Dillon as we chatted for a couple minutes backstage.
It was an incredible evening to be a part of. Congratulations to both Refugees International and Something Fabulous for a successful event!
Laurie Bracewell - Thank you all so kindly! Kendra and Katie – such a joy to work with you both!!
kendra davis - Laurie, Your photography is stunning and you are the consummate professional! Thank you so much for recording our evening in such an elegant and personal way. We are truly grateful for all you did for us! Best, Kendra
Katie Oakes - AMAZING!!!!! It is always such a joy to work with you, Laurie! You have such a great spirit and such great talent! Thanks for capturing the event even more beautiful than we could have imagined 🙂
Maria - These are awesome!! Amazing job, LB!