Everybody knows Neil Patrick Harris is the consummate pro, but what mere mortals amongst us could take time off right before hosting the 65th Primetime Emmy awards to attend another event?
But GBK’s annual pre-Emmy lounge isn’t just another party – it’s an annual tradition that combines gifting and giving in honor of the Emmy award nominees and presenters and their guests.
This year’s fun filled two-day soirée at the W Hollywood raised nearly $50,000 for the Creative Coalition, Lambda Legal and the GuardaHeart Foundation, including a hefty donation from presenting sponsor Tidy Cats.
A large contingent of celebrities made their way through the lounge, including Harry Hamlin, Ed O’Neill, Alfre Woodward, Chris Noth, Karina Smirnoff, Dennis Quaid, Rumer Willis, Matt LeBlanc, Evette Nicole Brown, Camille Grammer, Dania Ramirez and Tony Hale, who went on to win the Emmy for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series for his role on HBO’s “Veep.”
One of their first–and favorite–stops was at Helzberg Diamonds, who was gifting their exclusive INFINITY X INFINITY jewelry collection inspired by ABC Television’s primetime hit series “Revenge,” created by noted jewelry designer Udi Behr.
Ms. Willis, with boyfriend Jayson Blair, chose coordinating pendants for their respective moms while Noth stated the obvious when choosing a piece for his wife. That’s right, Mr. Big, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.”
For Travis Wall, a nominee for “So You Think You Can Dance,” it was the INFINITY X INFINITY dangle earrings with diamond accents that he chose to give to his mom, who was his date for the Emmy Awards.
“I love you, but I’m not into guys, said Chuy Bravo after accepting an “I am loved” button from Behr, but then went on to proclaim, “Get out of my way, bitches. Women love diamonds!”
The Artisan Group– a collection of artisans from around the world– was another popular stop. The consortium of creators gifted celebrities and VIPs a collection of handcrafted gifts, including jewelry, stationary, fine art photography and spot and bath products.
Other gifts and services were provided by TC Intimates (shapewear), Broadway Nails (press-on nails and fashion decals for fingertips), Barbar Hair tools (a flatiron) , and for the ultimate in long hair, Pelo Hair of LA gifted hair extensions and a salon gift card.
Sweet treats and fine libations were in plentiful supply, including Sequin Wines, Prime Dolce fruit compotes, Blondie’s Cookies, Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine and Cookie Daddy.
Guests were treated to gift certificates from several luxury destinations, including the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, Palace Resorts and the St. Regis Aspen Resort.
After Emmy week, just about everyone needs a nice getaway.
