Jason Sandford
Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.
The Desert Sun newspaper in California has a story about a fancy reception for Mary Bono and Connie Mack, who were recently married right here in Asheville.
A new standard was set last week in the admittedly small society category of “Elegant Western Wedding Receptions” or, even more precisely, “Elegant Western Wedding Receptions for a Newlywed Congressional Couple.”
Philanthropist Edra Blixseth and actor Jack Scalia (“Remington Steele,” “Dallas”) hosted a recepition to celebrate the Mary Bono and Connie Mack recent marriage in Asheville, N.C., near the home of Mary’s father.
The reception was held at Blixseth’s world-famous Porcupine Creek estate overlooking Rancho Mirage. The setting was outside in a rocky cove, with a private gas heater at each of the 19 tables, keeping the 190 guests toasty warm.
For those who are wondering “How elegant was it?” I have two words: Todd King.
The party-planning master of subtle excess managed to turn most of the tables into individual, semi-private, flower-bedecked gazebos through the artful swathing of alternating black and cowhide drapes.
The chairs and tables were also black with a topping of cowhide fabric so thick and realistic you could pet it.
At the center of the radiating guests were Mary’s son, 19-year-old Chesare and his sister, Chianna, whose 17th birthday was celebrated with a special cake and a rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Scalia led the singing, joined by the professional voices of Barry Manilow and Suzanne Somers. Among the “back-up” singers were Suzanne’s husband, Alan Hamel, Garry Kief , Barbara Sinatra, actor Gregory Itzin (“24”), Greg and Stacey Renker, Michael and Stephanie Landes, Richard and Melissa Milanovich, Michael and Michelle Krans, Dale and Patti Gribow, Bill and Anita Powers and Carl Karchers.
