When we think about what it means to be wealthy, we often imagine fancy cars, building enormous estates, and taking extravagant vacations—but there’s one thing that’s easy to overlook.  With wealth also comes the opportunity, and responsibility, to give back, and to do so often.  When you have a lot, you have a lot to share. That’s just one of the reasons why the generous owners of an incredible estate in Lake St. Louis graciously opened their doors to VIP guests and sponsors for a Million Dollar Evening.
It’s not uncommon for the media to show the rich and famous throwing frivolous parties with no purpose in mind other than to entertain, but at this event, that conception was turned on its head.

The best, and most important, part of this luxurious outing rests on the fact that all proceeds from the Million Dollar Evening have been donated to Little Patriots Embraced, an organization with a mission to better the lives of military families in need.  Their goal is to help recognize the service and sacrifice of the men and women who serve our country, especially those of military children.
Hosted in conjunction with Little Patriots Embraced, various sponsors and the owners of the estate and put on a successful charity event on Saturday, June 4th.  Upon arrival, guests were able to experience the glitz and glam of the red carpet by posing for photos at the mansion’s entrance.  Throughout the night, guests delighted in their favorite cocktails at the open bar and enjoyed delicious food alongside special guest, Josh Flagg, star of Bravo TV’s
Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles.

Attendees were greeted at the door where artist Steven Walden worked on a 3D-painting of Busch Stadium for a silent auction. With a glass of champagne in hand, guests toured the mansion, taking in some of the home’s most incredible features. Everyone was in awe of the mansion’s gorgeous details, swimming pools, and the stunning movie theater, but the real beauty of the evening had nothing to do with the house itself.

Just beyond the enormous windows of the grand salon, people gathered across the entire outdoor entertainment area.  To see so many men and women come together for such an important cause as our country’s military families was overwhelmingly beautiful.  For their contributions, guests were treated to exquisitely catered food prepared by Chef Gary
Suarez of Suarez Catering, endless refreshments, and live entertainment.

Shrimp overflowed on a beautiful ice sculpture, chicken was served hot off the grill, and later in the night, petite desserts were delicately displayed under cover of flashing lights beneath a gorgeous white tent. Even with the large number of guests, there was plenty of room to sit and enjoy the many decadent treats. Other food stations were set up around the infinity pool and across the stone terrace, giving everyone a chance to sample food, fill their drink glasses, and enjoy the gorgeous lake view.  With different styles of cuisine from sushi to barbecue, along with a St. Louis staple—toasted ravioli, there was plenty to go around and something for everyone to enjoy.

In the outdoor sitting area, people gathered around the television to catch a few innings of the Cardinals game, giving the event a true St. Louis vibe.  The atmosphere in and around the mansion was light and fun as guests ate, drank, and mingled.  Lively music played
throughout the evening, and guests were treated to a special performance by Steve Davis, the Midwest’s premier Elvis impersonator.  The King of Rock ‘n Roll posed for pictures and even gave a few impromptu performances for a lucky few throughout the night.
A number of local celebrities attended the event such as the night’s emcee, “The Smash.”  Other celebrity guests included: Sandy Miller, Rafer Weigel, Margie Ellisor, Randi Naughton, and Melanie Moon of Fox 2 News; St. Louis Blues Alumni, Terry Yake; David Bass of the Tennessee Titans; the 2016 first-round draft pick for the Atlanta Falcons, Keanu Neal; talk show host Jamie Allman from Allman in the Morning on FM NewsTalk 97.1; Rams Super Bowl Champion, Mike Jones; and many more. Their presence, along with all of the VIP guests, sponsors, and organizers, made this incredible night one I’m sure we’ll all remember for years to come. For more information about Little Patriots Embraced or to make a donation, please visit their website at littlepatriotsembraced.org.

Thank you to all of the sponsors:

Cam Print, Merchant Design, The Rick & Tracy Ellis Team, National Sports Agency, Julie Lally, Carol House Furniture, Ballas Dental Care, Vinson Mortgage, MDC Professional Services, The Reckel Family, B & B Packaging, GSF Mortgage

Special thanks to all of the local media as well as artist Steve Walden & Andy Cohen for donating tickets to Watch What Happens Live.