Dale Stewart reports from Kent, CT.Those who braved the fearsome thunderstorms in northwest Connecticut on Friday evening, June 22, to reach the 15th annual Litchfield County Antiques & Mid-Century Show Preview Party were rewarded with the first look, and chance to buy, American, British, French, and Asian antiques from some of the country's most esteemed dealers. The night also featured a special book-signing with four local writers and photographers, including Florence de Dampierre and Annie Kelly (pictured left). Event chairman Tom Sebring named three highly respected Litchfield County residents as honorees: Polly Allen Mellen, of Vogue and Allure magazines, was recognized for her contribution to fashion and lifestyle; celebrated interior designer and author Matthew Patrick Smyth was lauded for his interior design work; and Lillian Vernon, creator of the namesake catalog, was honored for her philanthropic efforts. A portion of the event's proceeds benefits Greenwoods Counseling Referrals.
Clarence Smith and Kevin Wolfe of Dover House Antiques came to the show from Louisville, Kentucky; Dan Barr, Virginia Budney with Dr. David McIntosh.
Margaret Field, Jane Havemeyer, and Susan Magee; Calvin Klein Home creative director Amy Mellen with Steve Penner.
Fashion legend Polly Allen Mellen with fellow honoree, retail maven Lillian Vernon, and Paolo Martine.
Steve Vaughn, Graham Klemm, and luxe stationery purveyor Matt Lynn; Barbara Putnam and Elese Reid.
KC Williams with Harry Carey and DJ Carey, editor-in-chief at Connecticut Cottages and Gardens; Kathleen Devaney, Chris Lancto, and Leslie Bell, who came in support of her mother Polly Mellen.
Real estate agent Joseph Lorino with event chairman Tom Sebring and master scenic artist Bob Topol.
Casey and Ellen Cogut with Stephanie Wargo; Carol Lenz, Addie Havemeyer, and Jane Brown.
Martha Bernstein and Nancy Newton; Andrew Peterson deep in conversation with Bruce Whipple.
Peter Stiglin from Pergola Home with Privet House's Suzanne Cassano and Richard Lambertson.
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Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
