Phoenix Art Museum Luncheon

New York-based designer, author and traveler Charlotte Moss was the guest speaker at the March 6 Independent Woman luncheon to benefit Phoenix Art Museum. She drew a crowd. Tables in the museum's Cummings Great Hall spilled out into the hallway with 480 female and 20 male guests. 

Atop the tables were amazing – and imaginative – centerpieces, all created around the “moss” theme by local designers. The arrangements were available for sale to luncheon guests. Ironically, no moss was involved so as not to bring dust and lurking critters into the museum.

Almost as pretty as the floral arrangements was the luncheon plate. Prepared by Santa Barbara Catering, the colorful Nicoise salad perfectly complemented the moss-green tablecloths and colorful flora. 

Moss, whose seventh and latest book, Charlotte Moss Decorates: The Art of Creating Elegant and Inspired Rooms, was available for purchase in the Museum Store and signing after the luncheon, spoke of women whose independent sense of style have inspired her. Her list of 13 ranged from Coco Chanel and Diana Vreeland to Elsie Wolfe and Gloria Vanderbilt. They were “influencers,” according to Moss, and their sense of humor about themselves and originality make them interesting.

Jane Jozoff, Ellen Katz, Sharron Lewis and Kathryn Petsas chaired the luncheon. Kim Barnum and Teresa Nelson of Nelson Barnum Interiors co-chaired the design committee. My Sister’s Closet, founded by its CEO Ann Siner, sponsored the event. 

Photos: Perfect Party Pictures