In a city that seems to always have a reason to celebrate, October is the month to get gussied up and go to a gala.  Hundreds of New Yorkers look forward to attending these events every October, but with the month overflowing with events, attending them can be a bit daunting—especially if you are new to the scene.  There are also those who may have never attended a gala or have even felt the desire to do so.  Even still they might wonder, “What exactly is the point of having a Gala?”

 Recently, I spoke with the Co-chairwoman of the Steering Committee for the Young Patrons of Lincoln Center, Jessie Betts, about all things gala. The Young Patrons of Lincoln Center (YPLC) is a membership group for professional New Yorkers in their twenties through early forties dedicated to celebrating, supporting, and promoting the world’s largest performing arts center. Betts says that the purpose for having a gala for YPLC is twofold. “It’s our fundraising event of the year and we can’t exist without it.”  Betts says that the YPLC gala also serves as a gathering of the patrons to meet with other people who are in the organization, have a good time, and to build a sense of community which,” Is the spirit of Lincoln Center.”  And for those who may not know how to carry themselves in a situation that has such a fancy name like “gala”, Betts explains that titles can make people feel they have to act a certain way—but having fun is key.  “It’s a party,” says Betts. “Go the way you always are and just be yourself.” 

Now that you hopefully feel at ease about just being yourself and having fun, it is time to think about what to wear.  I always say go big or go home, but of course, to each his own.  I personally feel that everyone should wear something that makes them feel fun, elegant, and above all, confident.  “Make sure you can sit in it, that’s key!” Betts suggests that is the one thing you must remember when picking out an ensemble.  She also suggests that you should wear your shoes around your apartment to make sure you are comfortable for the night, although she did note that some people she knows go through a lot of pain for special nights like galas.  I guess there are some people who will always live by the old adage that “Beauty is Pain.”  I agree with Jessie in making sure that you can actually sit in your outfit.  That way if your shoes hurt at least you can sit and still be the hottest person there.  Let’s face it, if you can’t sit down and it hurts to stand, you are going to look like a hot mess anyway randomly making that “Oh my geeze, kill me now but it is worth it” face. 

In the end it is ultimately about having a good time and helping out others.  Part of what YPLC does with the money that it raises is to provide under-privileged children the opportunity to see programming at Lincoln Center.  As a person who was influenced by the arts at a young age, I know the importance of letting children discover that world.  What better way to raise awareness for a cause of any organization than to just have fun!  Like Betts says, “It’s autumn in New York and it’s a good time for a party!” Well said!

For more information about The Young Patrons of Lincoln Center simply click here.