12 October 2009

It's Time for the Willow Manor Ball...




I am so excited, tomorrow is the Willow Manor Ball. I have heard that the evening will include fine music, dancing, a delectable and tantalizing menu to tease our pallets, fine champagne, and guest list that includes many notables from all corners of the world.


My ensemble... I have found the perfect gown. It is a vintage piece designed by the Italian firm of Mingolini-Guggenheim of Rome. I fell in love with it. And you no doubt will concur that it is a gorgeous piece.

The gown's bodice is covered in pearls, sequins, rhinestones and bugle beads. The bead work also adorns a panel at the top of the skirt, and rhinestones, bugle beads and pearls radiate from the panel the full length of the skirt in front, and on both sides.


The matching velvet coat is stunning. It is cut narrow in front to match the lines of the dress. The drama comes from the luxurious white mink cuffs. No doubt I will need the coat as the Fall air is a bit crisp in the late evening hours in Ohio.


For my footwear....I have selected Manolo Blahnik black silk heels with a rhinestone adornment at the peep toe. A gal just can't go wrong with a pair of Manolo's.

My jewelry ... a diamond encrusted tiara and a fab swarovski crystal necklace and earrings to finish my ensemble.

My escort... 8 time pro bowl pick football defensive end Howie Long of Ivy, Virginia. Howie had an illustrious career with the Oakland Raiders from 1981-1993. I had the pleasure of being a season ticket holder for many of the years Howie played with the Raiders. He is currently employed by Fox Sports as a sports analyst for their Sunday football program.

I have selected as my gift for our lovely hostess a case of Champagne Pommery. I think she'll enjoy this long after the Ball has ended.

Do stop by and visit the festivities on October 13th.

16 comments:

DeniseinVA said...

You have impeccable taste Erin, what a great cyber event this will be. Give Howie a hug from me ;)

Leah said...

What a stunning dress and coat!

Unknown said...

Black. I should have stayed with basic black... good choice!

Betsy Brock said...

Oooooh...that black gown is divine! You look lovely, my dear! And Howie...hmmmm....do you mind if I cut in for a dance?

Barry said...

If your date was Howie Long I would ask for a place on your dance card. But he's a little intimidating, although that is a charming smile you've put on his place.

Maybe I can rustle up some courage and ask anyhow.

Daryl said...

Lovley ... and I think Howie has a super sense of humor and is easy on the eyes so I am sure you will a wonderful time.

Unknown said...

You will have a wonderful time with Howie and he with you! You look stunning! Please drop by Linda #53 for a martini break with Howie and join us in a few jigs, won't you?

Susie Hemingway said...

Just love the dress, you cannot beat a few encrusted beads - beautiful, of course with a pair Manolo's - quite perfect. Hope you are enjoying the Ball as I am - it's been a splendid evening.

Unknown said...

Hello Erin,

The gown and accessories are truly gorgeous and you appear to have a most gallant companion. Being a sports person, he should be able to keep up with Miss Piggy while I take a breather to chat with you!

Yoli said...

Gorgeous dress and date!

Nancy said...

Oh my, did you look stunning in that gown! Your accessories were perfect - don't you just love Manolo Blahniks!

Tess Kincaid said...

You look absolutely devine in that black gown, daaaling! And what a hunky choice, that Howie!

Michael said...

I'm not sur eI wan tto butt in adn ask Howie to step aside to dance wit the lady. but if you are free, I'd be honoured. Your dress has that certain element of mystery to it. Most wonderful.

Gattina said...

As I didn't know about this game I first thought it was true and hoped you were very slim to wear such a dress, lol ! then I realized it was a dream !
Wonderful choice of the dress !

Laughing Orca Ranch said...

You know I'm just smiling imagining you wearing a tiara. hehehe!

~Lisa

Barb said...

Goodness - and here I sit on a rainy day, still in my (flannel) pj's! I was invited, too, of course, but Howie said he was taken.