Lauding Lady Leslie

A torrent of tony tête toppers filled the Biltmore’s Loggia Ballroom when Montecito uber philanthropist Leslie Ridley-Tree, dressed immaculately in pink with magnificent millinery from Fenwicks of London, celebrated the 45th anniversary of her half century.

The boffo bash was hosted by the Lady of Largesse’s many friends including Hiroko Benko, Bob and Val Montgomery, Chris Toomey, Lailan McGrath, Ray Winn and Peter Kavoian, Barbara Mathews, David and Anna Grotenhuis, Jean-Marie Hamel, Katy Drew, Robert and Chris Emmons, Sarah Argyropoulos, and Stacie Anthes.

It has been quite a momentous week for the birthday girl, not only marking a major milestone, but also moving to her new home in Birnam Wood.

But Leslie was in fine form as a number of musical groups, including the Westmont Alumni Choir, a Santa Barbara High quartet, and Leslie’s Guys, comprising of Rob Grayson, Dan Gunther, Rod Lathim and Bobby Lesser – who also entertained at her 90th and 93rd birthdays – sang selections from Cole Porter, My Fair Lady and Hello Dolly.

She was presented with an oil portrait of her dressed in Tiffany blue with pearls by local artist Jean-Marie Hamel, telling the 118 guests: “My heart is overflowing for you. I look forward to next year. Don’t go away!”

Among the bold faced name guests were Brooks and Kate Firestone, Luke Swetland, Caroline Thompson, Sally Jordan, Anne Towbes, Milt and Arlene Larsen, Bob and Marlene Veloz, Wilson Quarre and Peggy Wiley, Peter and Mireille Noone, Bob and Alex Nourse, Peter and Leslie McDougall, David Lacy, George and Laurie Leis, Rich and Luci Janssen, Peter and Gerd Jordano, Bruce Heavin and Lynda Weinman, Bryan and Lisa Babcock, Rich and Stacy Block, Brian King, Gayle and Pam Beebe, and Aimee de Lavett.

As a farewell gift they received small Tiffany blue boxes of M&Ms with Leslie’s initials imprinted on them.