On Saturday, June 22nd, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels hosted its 3rd annual “Hollywood Under the Stars” gala fundraiser at the iconic Paramount Studios lot, and it was a night to remember! Stepping onto the Paramount Pictures lot felt like stepping back in time, with the elegant Old Hollywood theme setting the tone for an evening of glamour, giving, and pure fun.
A Culinary Journey Under the Stars
The highlight of the evening, for many (myself included!), was the incredible culinary experience. Partnering with nearly a dozen of LA’s most renowned chefs and pâtissiers, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels created a true foodie paradise. The evening kicked off with a special VIP Hour featuring Chef Bret Thompson and Pez Coastal Kitchen’s seafood village, whetting our appetites for the delectable creations to come.
We then embarked on a tasting extravaganza, indulging in dishes curated by culinary luminaries like Chef Gino Angelini (Angelini Osteria), Mihir Lad (Arth Bar + Kitchen), Chef Keith Corbin (Alta Adams), and many more. Each bite was an explosion of flavor and artistry, a testament to the incredible talent of LA’s culinary scene.
Sweet Endings and Live Entertainment
No meal is complete without dessert, and the “Hollywood Under the Stars” gala didn’t disappoint. This year’s sweet treats, including Bertha Mae’s Brownie Co., Läderach Chocolate, Lark Cake Shop, and Malibu Meringue, provided decadent treats that had us all reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
As we reveled in the deliciousness, the vibrant beats of a 10-piece live band, courtesy of the de Bois All Stars, filled the air. The dance floor quickly became a sea of movement, and I can confidently say we all danced the night away under the twinkling lights of the Hollywood sky.
Celebrating Compassion and Honoring Generosity
But the true magic of the evening went beyond the gourmet food and lively entertainment. This event was about celebrating compassion and honoring the incredible work of St. Vincent Meals on Wheels. We were all deeply moved by the inspiring words from the evening’s honored guests, longtime Circle of Angels donors Gwen Humble McShane and her husband, one of my favorite actors Ian McShane. Their dedication to supporting vulnerable Angelenos through St. Vincent Meals on Wheels is truly remarkable, and the love they share for each other was a heartwarming sight. Let me tell you, they are one of the most beautiful couples I’ve ever seen, both inside and out! Make sure to look out for Ian in the next chapter of the John Wick film series.
A Special Shoutout
A huge shoutout also goes to our dear friend and guest blogger, E-Kan Soong, who co-hosted the event with news anchor Susan Hirasuna for the first time! It was fantastic to see him shine in this new role, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.
The Takeaway: A Night of Stars and Generosity
“Hollywood Under the Stars” was a resounding success, a night filled with delicious food, dazzling entertainment, and heartwarming moments of community spirit. Thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors like Delta Dental, US Bank, Albertsons Foundation, Toyota Motors, and countless others, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels raised crucial funds to continue their vital mission of providing nutritious meals to homebound seniors and vulnerable residents.
If you’re looking for a way to give back to the community and experience a truly unforgettable evening, I highly recommend attending next year’s “Hollywood Under the Stars” gala. It’s a night that will leave you feeling full (in more ways than one) and inspired to make a difference.
For more information about St. Vincent Meals on Wheels or to donate please visit www.svmow.org.
