On Tuesday, February 22, 2011, in the historic gardens at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, The Vizcayans, along with Italian fashion house Valentino, hosted the Third Annual Vizcaya Preservation Luncheon – widely known as the
 “Hat Luncheon”. The luncheon reprised the fashionable daytime garden parties which were commonplace in Vizcaya’s early years as James Deering’s European-inspired home, opened in 1916. 

Norma Quintero founded the Hat Luncheon throughout her three-year term as President of The Vizcayans, during a time when The Vizcayans were faced with the challenge of protecting its viewshed. In an impassioned effort to safeguard the endangered landmark, the Vizcaya Preservation Luncheon was founded. 

The luncheon began with a Black River Caviar Reception before guests embarked upon an exclusive experience of Vizcaya’s Italianate gardens.  The al-fresco luncheon included a fashion show featuring Valentino’s signature elegant looks from the Spring / Summer 2011 Collection. Over 300 women and men alike dressed elegantly in extravagant hats and other finery; seas of glamorous and fanciful hats were almost as striking as the gardens.

As the sun settled overhead and guests descended into the Formal Gardens to the luncheon, the Vizcaya Preservation Luncheon Founders joined Valentino to present the four-course gourmet luncheon catered by Thierry’s Catering. Brooches imprinted with the Golden Caravel, one of Deering’s enduring symbol for Vizcaya, were given to Lead Founders in recognition of their generous support of ongoing preservation efforts, including Founding Chairman, Norma Quintero; Honorary Chairman, Swanee DiMare; Co-Chairmen, Nancy Batchelor and Marysol Patton; as well as Josie Wang and Helene Kovens. Among the Palm Beachers who traveled to Miami to attend this extremely coveted event were Amanda Schumacher, Helen Messic, Vickie Kellogg, Petra Levin, Michelle Headley, Cheryl Marshman, Eddie Puyol, Pedro Almeida, Luciana Baccari, Maribel Alvarez and Sonia Velasquez.

Special Recognition to the Following Supporters:
Black River Caviar, Don Pepin Cigars, La Foce, USA Bouquet, Karla Conceptual Event Experiences, Thierry’s Catering,
Rak Rak Salon, Celia Paz and Michael’s Designs