London Invades a Positively Smashing “Birds & Blokes” Bird Ball

Joseph Missbrenner & Jean McCabe

London Calling!

The Norman Bird Sanctuary's annual "Bird Ball" is undoubtedly one of the liveliest, most fun parties of the summer season, and 2011's gala was no exception! Trailing the Royal Wedding, the theme of this year’s party was enttled "Birds & Blokes," with guests encouraged to embrace their Anglophilia and sport their smartest (or most creatively British) togs. Although we saw many brilliant outfits, our favorites were definitely Co-Chair Alix Flood's posh British flag maxi frock, Katie Whittemore's incredible homemade, bird-bedazzled headpiece (a reprisal from last year in a new design), and Joseph Missbrenner and Jean McCabe’s unbelievable Austin Powers-inspired 60's go-go girl and vintage captain’s uniform pair.

Rachel Balaban, Helen Del Giudice, Zulekha Ludwig

The best word to describe the affair was "smashing" – the silent auction was creative, DJ Butch Taylor's lineup of hits jammed the dance floor, and we're almost embarrassed to admit that we visited the fresh fish and chips station more than once - outstanding! For those fancying a more substantial nosh, catered “Pub Grub” consisted of braised short rib, chicken kebobs, and vegetable curry over basmati rice.

Co-chair Alix Flood in a fabulous anglo maxi dress!

We saw quite a few tail feathers shaking that night, including those of Pierre and Kathy Irving with daughters Elizabeth, Katie, and their significant others Duncan Woodard and Chester Areson, respectively. Co-chair Nick Benson was seen tearing up the dance floor as well! We also said hi to Congressman David Cicilline, Michael Hayes, Bill and Alison Varieka with son Christian and daughter Hope, Liz and Emlen Drayton, Dominique Alfandre, Teddy and Rob Aspergren, Donna and Marty Gibbs, Steve and Liz MacGillivray, Keith and Laura Cullen, and more.

Selling raffle tickets

As if the fish and chips station wasn't indulgent enough, we also discovered a Ben & Jerry's cart serving select flavors of ice cream – who could resist? Soft red hues lit up the interior tents, with flocks of white birds on the ceiling above the dancef loor. In the outdoor seating area, beautiful colored lanterns were strung clotheslines. After a long night of dancing and mingling, we were positively knackered!

Hail, Brittania!

--Amanda M. Grosvenor