In a triumphant return to the heart of social gatherings, the Southampton Hospital Foundation’s 65th Annual Summer Party illuminated the Hamptons’ night sky on Saturday, August 5, 2023. The sold-out affair, aptly themed “A Night at The Colony Hotel,” marked a reinvigorating celebration after a hiatus since 2019, all while benefiting the esteemed Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. Against the backdrop of the elegant tents on Wickapogue Road, the event showcased not only glamorous festivities but also the community’s unwavering support for healthcare in the Hamptons.
This year’s gala held a special significance, commemorating 65 years of dedicated fundraising for healthcare in the region. Spearheaded by Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall, the owners of the renowned Colony Hotel Palm Beach, the event unfolded as a seamless blend of style and substance. “The Colony Hotel is so happy to have partnered with the Southampton Hospital Foundation Summer Party to create such an exciting and fresh event,” shared Sarah Wetenhall, who also co-chaired the fundraiser. “The funds raised last night will have a lasting impact on the entire East End community, and we’re grateful to have been a small part of that.”
The event drew a star-studded crowd of 500, comprising full-time and part-time residents, philanthropists, socialites, and influencers, each bringing their unique aura to the celebration. Distinguished guests included Veronica Atkins, Dennis Basso, Margo and John Catsimatidis, Elena Ford, Tamron Hall, Steve Klinsky, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, and Rachel Zoe, among others.
Stacey Bronfman, Laura Lofaro Freeman, Ros L’Esperance, and a team of esteemed co-chairs orchestrated the event’s success. The honorary chairs, including Fiona Druckenmiller and Julia Koch, added a touch of prestige to the gathering.
The Summer Party shone as a beacon of hope for the community, raising over $2 million to support Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. Ken Wright, board chairman of The Southampton Hospital Association and Summer Party honoree, expressed his gratitude, noting, “This is the first in-person event we’ve had in four years, and what a stunning comeback. We are thrilled to have raised over $2 million at this year’s Summer Party. The monies raised will support Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, including The Paulson Family Emergency Room and the new East Hampton Emergency Department. We are so grateful for the continued support of our generous donors and community.”
Even before entering the elegant Sperry tents, guests were welcomed by The Colony Hotel’s signature seagrape beach buggy and bicycles, setting the stage for an enchanting evening. The event’s theme, “Pink Paradise,” transformed the venue into an oasis of elegance. From the mesmerizing dance floor adorned with The Colony swimming pool motif to the stunning deGournay mural and enchanting floral installations by Lewis Miller Design, the atmosphere breathed life into the hotel’s iconic imagery.
The Colony Hotel team collaborated with Elegant Affairs to offer a culinary experience reminiscent of the Palm Beach hotel’s Swifty’s restaurant. Lounge-style tunes from “American Idol” alum Christiaan Padavan added to the evening’s charm. Attendees savored the delectable creations paired with world-class wines from presenting sponsor Wölffer Estate Vineyard.
As the sun set, the festivities transitioned to the stunning dinner tent, where honorees including Audrey & Martin Gruss, John Paulson, Jay Lieberman, and Megan & Ken Wright were celebrated. The Paddle Auction, hosted by celebrity auctioneer Lydia Fenet, captivated guests, and a surprise performance by Tony and Grammy nominated singer Shoshana Bean illuminated the night with musical brilliance.
The festivities didn’t stop there. The sold-out After Party extended the revelry, welcoming over 150 additional attendees. DJ Oli Benz and violinist Kozlow spun enchanting tunes, keeping the dance floor alive until the early hours.
The Southampton Hospital Foundation’s 65th Annual Summer Party not only brought back the glitz and glamour of social gatherings but also showcased the community’s resounding commitment to healthcare. As the Hamptons rekindled its spirit, this unforgettable evening left an indelible mark, reminding everyone of the power of unity, celebration, and philanthropy.
About Stony Brook Southampton Hospital (SBSH)
With 124 beds, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital (SBSH) is staffed by more than 280 physicians, dentists, and allied health professionals representing 48 medical specialties. SBSH offers a diverse array of clinical services, ranging from primary medical care to specialized surgical procedures, including cardiac catheterization, orthopedics and bariatrics. The sole provider of emergency care on Long Island’s South Fork, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital is a Level III Trauma Center. The hospital includes The Phillips Family Cancer Center, a Heart and Stroke Center, Breast Health Center, The Center for Advanced Wound Healing, Wellness Institute, and 32 satellite care centers throughout the South Fork of Long Island. The hospital is the largest employer on the South Fork with more than 1,200 employees. To learn more, visit www.southampton.stonybrookmedicine.edu.
About Southampton Hospital Foundation, Inc. (SHF)
The Southampton Hospital Foundation, Inc., a separate nonprofit corporation with an independent Board of Trustees, supports Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s mission to deliver healthcare services and expand clinical programs to meet the needs of the community. The Foundation concentrates its efforts on increasing critical philanthropic support to ensure high-quality healthcare for all of our neighbors on the East End. To learn more, visit https://southampton.stonybrookmedicine.edu/about/the-southampton-hospital-foundation-inc
