2024 Spring Gala Q & A

What Is the Avalon~Brookewood Spring Gala: A Black-Tie Knight?

The Spring Gala is an annual event that brings the Avalon and Brookewood communities together for our most exciting fundraiser of the year.  This year, the Gala will again be held at The Avalon School campus.  This black-tie affair will be celebrated on Saturday, March 23, 2024. 

The highlight of the evening, of course, is the musical revue by the students and faculties of both schools.

The festivities begin at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, at the Claridge Room, The Avalon School, 11811 Claridge Road (off Veirs Mill Road, on the St. Catherine Laboure Campus) in Wheaton. 

What is included in the cost of the evening?

Complimentary self-parking, a cocktail hour, an open bar, a seated dinner featuring an entrée, a selection of red or white wine, a Silent Auction of Faculty Fetes & Fancies, and a curated Live Auction. 

What is the evening’s attire?

The Gala is a festive, black-tie affair, although a dark suit is acceptable for the gentlemen.  The ladies of Avalon and Brookewood will be dressed in an array of cocktail and formal attire, from short to floor-length gowns to evening pajamas. 

Who attends the Gala? 

More than 300 people attend the Gala each year, including parents, grandparents, a host of other relatives, alumnae and alumni, former Avalon and Brookewood families, and friends of the schools. We hope for an even larger gathering this year!

May I bring my children?

The dinner is for adults and Avalon and Brookewood alums (except for babes-in-arms or other special circumstances).  Please get in touch with the Advancement Office at 301-963-8022 if you have any questions or concerns. 

I’d like to sit with specific people.  How do I make this request?

I don’t know many people at Avalon and Brookewood. Who will I sit with?

You may indicate your seating preference when registering online with Greater Giving. There is a space to include the names of individuals with whom you would like to sit.

For those new to our schools, those who have not had an opportunity to meet other parents, or those who come alone, we will be delighted to seat you with other parents from your son’s or daughter’s grade.

Special request? Contact the Advancement Office at 301-963-8022. The Gala is a wonderful way to meet other parents and enjoy this special evening.

Do I receive a ticket when I make my reservation?

There is no formal ticket.  You will receive an invitation both by mail and via email with instructions on how to register.  When you register online with Greater Giving, your payment will be processed, and you will receive a confirmation receipt.  

You will receive your table assignment and bid number when you arrive at the Gala.

How much does it cost to attend the Gala?

The cost is $175 per person, $350 per couple.  Avalon and Brookewood Alums pay $80 per person.  Please check the registration site to see how you can purchase a table for your party!

Remember, the ticket price covers the evening expenses, including parking, cocktails, an open bar, a seated dinner with entrée, red or white wine with dinner, coffee, tea, and dessert, AND our student/faculty musical revue, which includes stage and equipment rental and labor costs.  

But once you attend a Gala, we are confident that you will find the cost of a ticket more than worth the expenditure in support of our schools!

Is parking included in the cost of the evening?

Yes, self-parking is included.  

How do I receive a bid number?

When you check in at the reservation desk upon arrival at the Spring Gala, you will receive a program and bidding paddle.

Is the cost of my auction purchase tax deductible?

When applicable, you will receive a statement from the school for each winning bid that exceeds the item's estimated value.

How do I pay for my auction items?

To ensure a speedy checkout, be sure to save your credit card information on our secure Greater Giving registration site.  Please email the Advancement Office to make other payment arrangements at advancement@brookewood.org.

I cannot attend, but I would like to support our school! Are there ways to do so?

Yes! Please consider participating as a(n):

- Auction Angel   - Special Friend   - Wrangler   - Volunteer             

An Auction Angel makes a monetary donation to offset the cost of the Gala specifically.  

A Special Friend sponsors one or more faculty members or their spouses by donating $100.00 for each teacher or spouse.

A James Davern Endowed Fund Donation is a special donation in any amount that is earmarked to provide long-term support for The Avalon and Brookewood Schools in perpetuity.

Please make your donations on our Greater Giving site.

In addition, volunteers are needed on Friday, March 22, the morning of March 23, and at the Gala. We are seeking “wranglers’; parents who will help chaperone the more than 200 students participating in the show the night of the Gala.  Please text or call please get in touch with Advancement at advancement@avalonschools.org

The Show

My child is participating in the Gala Revue.  Must I purchase a Gala ticket to see the show?

Yes, if you want to see your child perform, youmust purchase a reservation to attend the Gala. 

If you are a volunteer for the evening, every effort will be made so that you may see your child’s performance. Catered food and open bar are not included for volunteers.

If I have any questions regarding the show, whom shall I contact?

Please get in touch with the Advancement Office at 301-963-8022 or advancement@brookewood.org.

What should my child wear in the show?

Avalon & Brookewood families will receive a letter outlining the costume needs and rehearsal schedule shortly.  

What can students bring for entertainment on the night of the Gala?

Students may bring portable electronic devices, board games, cards, etc., clearly labeled. Wifi will not be available to the students. Each student is responsible for their items during the evening and must be sure to take them home at the end of the night.  We must leave the classroom ready for Sunday Faith Formation Classes the following day.

Will the students be served dinner the night of the Gala?

Please plan on your child having a full and satisfying meal before arriving at the Gala.  A snack and drink will be available. 

Volunteering

I want to volunteer to help with the Gala.

Wonderful! Please get in touch with Advancement at Advancement@avalonschools.org.

Watch for updates through Jupiter Grade messages, Room Parent emails, and the Avalon and Brookewood Facebook pages. 

See you at the Gala!