05 Nov 2023 Lady WhistleLIFE’s society papers

By Rita Halter Thomas

DEAR READERs:

It is my absolute delight to share great news of an upcoming Bridgerton-inspired royal gala at Conway’s own Legacy Acres, to be held Thursday, the 30th day of November, beginning at 6 o’clock in the evening. Prepare to be swept into a time of “romance and intrigue” and experience an unforgettable night with the “opulence and sophistication” of Regency-era high society.

As you would expect at a royal gala, guests will enjoy delectable foods, a scrumptious three-course meal, horse-drawn carriage rides, ballroom dancing and music appropriate for such a historic-themed occasion. Musicians and dancers from an institute of higher learning, the University of Central Arkansas, will set the regal ambiance of a nineteenth-century England ball. An opera singer will entertain with her vocal prowess of trills and leaps, and a string quartet will provide live music from the era. And since modern forms of dance less resemble the elegance of ballroom dancing, instruction will be provided by those proficient in the manner. 

As a philanthropic endeavor, there is to be a silent auction with an array of items (or experiences) to be won, if you are the highest bidder. Be generous, readers, and you may win such things as a live portrait, the handiwork of local artists, or lodging at something called an “Air BNB” at some highly desired location. Oh, the sport of keeping a keen eye on those bids!

Once guests stand next to the stately white columns or walk beneath the iron-rail balcony and enter the double doors of this timeless, prestigious facility at 100 Legacy Acres Drive, they will feel the grandeur of the time. Lady Jessica Crum, WLN board member and gala marketing chair, suggests having royal portraits taken upon arrival, catching your likeness first, before dinner and dancing. And readers, don’t forget to peruse those auction items early and set your sights on items you wish to win.  

My sources say the masters of ceremonies will be Lady Ashton Pruitt, president of the Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce, and Lady Faith Woodard, evening news anchor, THV 11. The Royal Gala will raise funds for the Women’s Leadership Network (WLN), a society of women formed to support, elevate, empower, and embrace women. Lady Stacey Alston, VP of the WLN and gala chair, added, “We also encourage women to live their lives authentically.”

The royal gala is the organization’s primary annual fundraiser. While the university is still a valued and important partner, the WLN just acquired its official 501(c)(3) non-profit status. Whether in leadership at home, at work, or in the community, the WLN seeks to provide the tools and networking support to elevate each other to become “agents of influence,” as Lady Crum once stated.

The esteemed Lady Dr. Shaneil Ealy, UCA’s Associate VP Division of Outreach and Community Engagement, oversees the WLN and shared her gratitude for the community’s support. “I am thrilled about Conway’s excitement when I tell people … the gasps and excitement on their faces … we’re really bringing something unique to the community. We’re excited the community is joining us in this effort, not only for entertainment purposes but to support the network.”

The WLN Royal Gala is for both Lord and Lady, and proper era attire is highly encouraged for the fun and entertainment of it all. I am told, my faithful readers, that an array of era clothing may easily be found searching something called the “internet.” Ladies should wear Regency or Victorian-era gowns and Lords should wear formal suits. However, those clothed in modern-day formal attire will still be granted admittance.  

Tickets can be obtained through Eventbrite by searching for the WLN Royal Gala. Don’t delay, as seating is limited, and you don’t want to miss out.

Rumor has it there may even be a diamond selected from this very event. So, dear readers, spare nothing. Mark your calendars now, adorn yourself in your best-era attire, and purchase tickets for this very special occasion at wlnarkansas.com.

Yours Truly,

Lady WhistleLIFE