Cotillion King LXXIV Dr. Stephen Collier White will reign over Greek Isles-themed event
When the doors of the Municipal Auditorium open on April 14 for the black-tie Cotillion, Shreveport's guests may imagine they are in the Aegean Sea's Greek Isles.
The theme sets the scene for Cotillion royals led by King LXXIV Dr. Stephen Collier and Her Royal Majesty LXXIV Queen Mary Cecile Hancock, setting sail on a royal holiday.
"Guests will be transported to idyllic islands, set like jewels in a haven of breathtaking natural beauty," promised Cotillion Chair Lila Knicely. She selected the theme: "The Greek Isles, Jewels of the Aegean Sea."
"Experience Greek charm, calling you to join in the celebration with a joyful shout of 'Opa!'" said Knicely.
So how did Knicely get to Greece when just settling on a theme was initially overwhelming for her?
She remembered a trip to Santorini, Greece, she took with her father and sister after her mother died. "It was one of the most visually stunning places I have ever been. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that could translate into a fun theme for Cotillion," she explained.
Yes, the Cotillion will be a night to remember.
So was its prelude, the black-tie President's Announcement Party which revealed Cotillion secrets - names of the royal court. They are held under wraps until that night.
Cotillion Governing Board Prez John David Pickens and his wife, 2018 Cotillion Chair Dana Lynn Pickens, hosted the tony gathering at the Shreveport Club. T'was an evening of merriment, hugs, air kisses and congratulations.
It was here that Pickens proclaimed the reign of Rex LXXIV, King of Cotillion Dr. White and his Royal Court. The king is known around town for his prowess as a vascular and general surgeon and as the 2022 Northwest Louisiana Medical Society president. He co-founded Highland Clinic Vein Center, is involved in St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral and the Powers Foundation.
When he arrived on the club's second floor White was greeted so merrily by the crowd of well wishes that it was difficult for he and his wife, Ellen Hennesy White, to make their way to a flowered arch for a Timesphoto.
Parents are stand-ins for college student court members, such as Queen Hancock, who attends the University of Mississippi and is a member of Kappa Delta sorority and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Attwell Hancock.
Next in line: His Royal Highness Prince Andrew Robinson Briley attends Dartmouth and is a member of Psi Upsilon Fraternity. Her Royal Highness Princess Elizabeth Claire Wooldridge attends the University of Arkansas and is a member of Chi Omega. Their parents are Mr. and Mrs. Kevin James Briley and Mr. and Mrs. Maury Brent Wooldridge.
The quartet is among a starry crowd of supporting royals who make up the Royal Court. The list includes five duchesses from Bossier, Caddo, Natchitoches Parishes; Cane River; and Texas; 11 Ladies of the Court; 17Gentlemen of the Court; four heralds; and 4 pages to the king and queen.
When the doors open, how will we know we are in Greece?
Well, Knicely doesn't want to give anything away. I will just say that I am hoping the decor, both inside the Municipal Auditorium and outside in the tent will feel light, airy and relaxed and make our guests feel they are on the most wonderful vacation," she answered.
She did admit that the bougainvillea you see will be "fake," because it is too early here for the real thing. However, designer Kyle Loyd found perfect silk bougainvillea. "It looks so real you won't even know the difference," Knicely promised.
Pickens, by the way, knows his way around the Cotillion for he is a past member of the Ark-La-Tex Ambassador Club and he and Dana are parents of: Lady of the Cotillion Court 2012 Mackenzie Rene Huffman;Gentleman of the Court 2013 Spencer Edward Huffman; Herald of the Court Emma Deas Pickens.
He owns John Pickens Clothiers, where locals shop for men's-to-date, classical attire. He is involved in community activities, but also relishes cooking, running, traveling.
A glimpse at the gala crowd: Betty Henderson, Elizabeth Meadows, Duke and Laurel DeWare, of Jefferson, Texas, Paul and Janie Dickson, Dr. Charles and. Katherine Sale, Allen and Serenity Evans, Sybil Patten, Dr. Craig and Shelley Miller, Bill and Debbie Hall.
IF YOU GO:
WHEN: 8:30 p.m., April 14 at the Municipal Auditorium.
WHAT TO WEAR: Formal.
ADMISSION: Members only. For info about becoming a member, email:Membership Chairperson Mrs. William P. Lea: cotillionmembership1@gmail.com.
ROYAL BANQUET: Catered by Upper Crust, of Haynesville, will be heldimmediately following the presentation. Cash Bar.DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY TO: Limelight, Dallas.
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Get ready for Cotillion 2023
