A sell-out crowd of 330 guests welcomed two best-selling authors, Laura Bradford and Jeannette Cooperman to the 18th Authors Brunch 2023 at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Chesterfield. Both fascinating women writers, Laura and Jeannette have achieved bestseller literary success locally and nationally for their books and novels, as well as magazine and newspaper articles. Led by Chair Judith Mitchell, the sponsorship team raised $90,000 in sponsorships for the FUNdraising event before the doors were opened.
Prior to brunch and the authors' presentations, guests enjoyed a chance to purchase "opportunity tickets" for drawings to win eight exceptional experiences in and around St. Louis. The coveted Premier Experiences included season St. Louis City soccer tickets, St. Louis Cardinal Baseball box seats and a trip to the Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales farm in Booneville, MO. In addition, Signature Experience opportunity tickets were available to win $500 cash, Kate Spade accessories and local winery and restaurant packages.
Following a beautifully choreographed, delicious brunch, Judith and her team introduced an innovative new way to support Assistance League of St. Louis: Mission Moment. Overhead video screens revealed a compelling snapshot of the five ALSTL programs and 494 volunteer members who work to fill community needs. Guests were encouraged to use the new Mission Moment envelopes on the tables, and they generously donated over $3400.
Laura Bradford is the USA Today Bestselling author of over 35 books, including women's fiction and romance. Her most prolific area is mystery, penning many series including A Friend for Hire mysteries and the Southern Sewing Circle mysteries. Her engaging demeanor, along with an inside look at her craft delighted the audience. ALSTL proudly welcomed Laura and had an honest exchange of ideas and insights.
Jeannette Cooperman, local author and member of the St. Louis Media Hall of Fame, was a staff writer at St. Louis Magazine for 12 years and has been recognized both locally and nationally in the magazine industry. She also spent a decade as an investigative reporter for the Riverfront Times. With an impressive education and curiosity, Jeannette has written seven books to date, including biographies and cultural histories and one murder mystery.
A creative and tireless Authors Brunch committee, two fascinating authors, generous members and guests combined this year to achieve Assistance League of St. Louis' Authors Brunch record-breaking financial success. Touching 36,000 lives in St. Louis does make a difference. Now that number will continue to grow, along with our gratitude.
Check out more pictures from the event in Town&Style.
