Location: Balmain ~ River Oaks District
Operation Smile Gala kick-off party held at Balmain in River Oaks District.
The kickoff celebration at BALMAIN was a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when style meets purpose — and a powerful step toward changing lives, one smile at a time.
On the evening of May 21, the BALMAIN Boutique at River Oaks District opened its doors to host a stunning Honoree Kickoff Reception for the upcoming Operation Smile Houston Gala, taking place on September 27, 2025. Over 70 guests gathered in elegant style to celebrate a night of fashion, philanthropy, and giving back.
Guests were welcomed with champagne, light bites, and signature cocktails from Toulouse, creating an atmosphere of elevated elegance. The evening was an intimate celebration of purpose, style, and generosity in support of Operation Smile’s life-changing mission.
Brooke Burke, Emmy Award–winning host, wellness entrepreneur, and long-time Operation Smile ambassador, will join as this year’s celebrity guest at the gala. Brooke has supported Operation Smile for over 15 years — not only hosting and fundraising but also attending mission trips with her family to witness firsthand the life-transforming work being done.
Houston Gala Co-Founders Viet Hoang and Sneha Merchant, along with 2025 Gala Co-Chairs Stacey Lindseth and April McGee, and 2025 Auction Co-Chairs Lara Bell, Kristen J. Cannon, and Whitney Kuhn Lawson, are leading this year’s powerful initiative. At the kickoff, Auction Co-Chair Whitney Kuhn Lawson, who was in attendance, shared a glimpse of the gala’s inspiring vision — including exciting celebrity experiences, world-class auction items, and an evening filled with unforgettable moments of hope.
Operation Smile is a global nonprofit that provides free cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries for children in need around the world. Operating in over 60 countries, Operation Smile delivers not just new smiles — but life-changing confidence, health, and opportunity for children and their families.
• Founders Circle Award – Brooke Burke and the Burke Family
A passionate Operation Smile champion for more than 15 years, Brooke Burke and her family have fundraised, co-hosted events, and participated in mission trips, exemplifying the heart of the organization’s work.
• John Connor Humanitarian Award – Laura and Dave Ward
Houston’s legendary broadcaster and his wife, the heart and soul behind Houston Children’s Charity. Laura Ward has raised millions of dollars annually to support underprivileged children in Houston, making her a powerful force for good in the local community.
• Wallis Annenberg Public Service Award – Tena Lundquist Faust and Tama Lundquist
Visionary twin sisters, compassionate leaders, and devoted animal welfare advocates, Tena and Tama are the co-founders of Houston PetSet. Through tireless advocacy, strategic partnerships, and hands-on action, they work to create sustainable solutions for Houston’s stray animal crisis — protecting and uplifting the lives of the city’s most vulnerable animals with dignity, care, and urgency.
• Hoang & Merchant Philanthropy Legacy Award – Julie Dang
A longtime supporter of Operation Smile, Julie Dang has generously donated and advocated for its mission for years, helping bring thousands of life-changing surgeries to children in need around the world.
This year is especially meaningful for Sneha Merchant and Viet Hoang, as it marks their ninth year co-leading fundraising efforts in Houston. Together, they have raised over $3.5 million for Operation Smile. In recognition of their unwavering dedication, the organization has introduced a new national honor — the Hoang & Merchant Philanthropy Legacy Award — to be awarded annually to individuals who exemplify a legacy of support and service.
The evening also spotlighted fashion at its finest, with BALMAIN debuting its Pre-Fall 2025 Collection. This collection fused Parisian aristocracy with streetwise sophistication, featuring bold tailoring, intricate embellishments, and elegant silhouettes — a perfect backdrop for a night where fashion met philanthropy.
The Operation Smile Houston team is now in full preparation mode for the September 27 Gala, which promises to be an extraordinary evening of impact and inspiration.
Tables and tickets are available now, starting at $3,500 per table and $350 per ticket. With only 10 tables and 100 tickets available at the $350 level, supporters are encouraged to act quickly. Once this tier closes, sponsorship opportunities will begin at $5,000 and range up to $50,000.
To learn more or purchase tickets, please visit:
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