A Star-Studded Afternoon in the Hamptons: Behind the Scenes at the 12th Annual Luxury Luncheon hosted by Jill Zarin, Brian Kelly, and Sean Koski
L-R: Sean Koski (Ticket2Events), Kristen Taekman (RHONY), Jill Zarin (RHONY), Ally Shapiro, Luann de Lesseps (RHONY), Cynthia Bailey (RHOA), LeeAnne Locken (RHODallas), Jennifer Aydin, Brian Kelly (Ticket2Events)
Photo Credit: Barbara Lassen
This weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of attending one of the most iconic events of the summer: the 12th Annual Luxury Luncheon, hosted by Jill Zarin, Sean Koski, and Brian Kelly of Ticket2Events. Held at the picturesque Southampton Inn, this VIP gathering brought together a sparkling mix of celebrities, tastemakers, and top-tier brands—all in support of a cause close to Jill’s heart: cancer research in memory of her late husband, Bobby Zarin.
If you’re a fan of Bravo or The Real Housewives of New York, chances are you fell in love with Jill and Bobby's story. It was truly meaningful to be part of an event that blends glamour and generosity, and I’m always happy to support such a noble cause.
A Day of Style, Sun & Purpose
From the moment I stepped onto the red carpet, the energy was pure Hamptons magic. Think high fashion meets heartfelt purpose. Set against the backdrop of a beautiful summer day, the event buzzed with a who’s who of reality TV and media (your faves). Notables like Cynthia Bailey (RHOA), Luann de Lesseps (RHONY), Jesse Metcalfe, Danielle Olivera (Summer House), and Evan Ross Katz were all in attendance.
But what made the experience truly special was that it wasn’t just about people watching and being seen, it was about supporting meaningful change. The luncheon raised funds for cancer awareness and research, creating space for both celebration and impact.
Beauty, Wellness & Luxe Moments Everywhere
Ticket2Events knows how to host a luxe experience. Throughout the day, guests were treated to complimentary wellness activations and gifting from a curated lineup of beauty, fashion, and lifestyle brands.
Photo Credit: Barbara Lassen
At the Beauty Bar, there were product favorites including the luxe upLift 5 skincare device, Coola sunscreen, and LUMIFY® Redness Reliever Eye Drops (a must-have for summer). Jesse Metcalfe’s NUTRL Skin line made a splash, and celebrity injector Jennifer Anne Di Landro of Dolce Aesthetics NY was offering on-site treatments, adding a mini glam moment to the event.
There were even activations that felt like a true escape—Buff Medical Resort offered a glimpse into next-level wellness from their lakeside destination in Germany, while Eternal Traveler Magazine showcased wanderlust-worthy inspiration.
Fashionably Connected
Photo Credit: Barbara Lassen
The event was also a chance to connect with some truly fun and innovative brands. From Jill Zarin Rugs and My Q tech to Print Fresh loungewear and RPZL’s accessory bar, it was a curated dreamscape for beauty, fashion, and home lovers. I also got a peek at launches and new drops from brands like No7, New Chapter, Mizz Korea, and Flaus (yes, the buzzed-about sonic flosser!).
VIP Sips & Bites
Photo Credit: Barbara Lassen
The new Premier Lounge was an oasis featuring chic sips like Avaline wine, Tequila Pantalones, and Piñaq cocktails (so photogenic!). For the foodie moments, guests were spoiled with bites from Hamptons Catered Affairs, a casual-cool Shrimpy’s Burrito Bar, and sweet treats from Levain Bakery and Doughlicious. I even grabbed an ice cream straight from the Cold Snap on-demand machine—the perfect touch for a summer afternoon.
Photo Credits: Barbara Lassen
The Gift Bag: Worth the Hype
Let’s talk about the legendary gift bag, curated by none other than Sean Koski and Brian Kelly. Yes, it lived up to every bit of the buzz. The gift bags featured products from cult-favorite brands like Sunday Riley, GrandeLASH, Vacation Inc., Sol de Janeiro, Cann, Truvani, Athena Club, EltaMD, and more.
Final Thoughts
It was truly an unforgettable day filled with glam, generosity, and genuine connections. I’m incredibly grateful to have been a part of this year’s Luxury Luncheon. Not only for all the style and sparkle, but also for the powerful reminder that fashion and beauty can inspire and fuel something much bigger. Huge thanks to Ticket2Events, Jill Zarin, Sean Koski, and Brian Kelly for organizing such a meaningful and magical event. I’m already looking forward to being back again next year!