For the First Time Ever, Palm Beach Hosted an amfAR Blowout

On a breezy Saturday evening, Amy and John Phelan opened the doors of their 16,958 square-foot home to celebrate the inaugural Palm Beach edition of the amfAR Gala. The festivities, which raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research, commenced with a cocktail reception, where guests were treated to rounds of Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut Champagne and bites of caviar and lobster tail. Every detail was well thought out, from the mojitos with miniature funnels of popcorn attached to the glass rims to the cheerful invitations, which Ceci Johnson brilliantly designed to coordinate with the home’s architecture.

Host Emily Hampshire lit up the room and made everyone smile with a joyous welcome. Actor and board member Jay Ellis prepared attendees for the first performance of the evening with a heartwarming introduction of Parson James, who rocked the crowd with an energetic performance of his hit “Stole the Show.” Sylvester Stallone waxed poetic over Tommy Hilfiger’s philanthropic work before presenting the designer as the evening’s honoree. “I’m grateful to amfAR for presenting me with this award and humbled by the recognition,” Hilfiger told Vogue. “Organizations like amfAR are making a life-changing difference for countless people around the world, and to be here tonight to support their mission and the work they do is truly an honor.”

In the same vein, Christina Aguilera made us all feel empowered and eager to do what we can to help find a cure while performing a medley of songs, including her uplifting anthem “Fighter,” which ended with a shower of confetti raining down on guests.

During the highlight of the evening, several artists donated their pieces to be auctioned off with help from Simon De Pury, The pièce de résistance? A triple canvas masterpiece by Harland Miller with the words “amour, amour, and more amour” went for a cool $500,000. 100% of the proceeds from the gala, which was sponsored by David Yurman and Aston Martin, will go directly to amfAR.