At Grace Farms, a Gathering for a Greater Cause

On Oct. 21, luminaries across art, architecture, and philanthropy descended on Grace Farms in New Canaan to attend the foundation’s 8th annual benefit. Held every year in support of Grace Farms’ mission to end modern slavery and gender-based violence, the benefit was an evening of connection as guests indulged in delectable hors d’oeuvres and sipped creative cocktails as golden hour bathed the SANAA-designed River Building in a picturesque autumnal glow. Guests mingled in the library before sitting for a reading by Joy Harjo, the renowned three-term U.S. Poet Laureate, who captivated with several recent poems. Guests then migrated to the court for dinner, where Grace Farms Foundation founder Sharon Prince kicked off the festivities with a short film about the organization’s work. She handed the mic to Adam Thatcher, co-founder of B Corp–certified Grace Farms Food, who spoke about its ethically sourced coffees and teas. A night of dancing to music from Grace Farms’ music director Marcus G. Miller’s dinner band and DJ Clean and the Sound of the People, drew the evening to a close. Notable attendees included Nate Berkus, Abby Bangser, Hayes Slade, Athena Calderone, Jeremiah Brent, Jennifer Pastore, Anna Dyson, and more. Photos by Melani Lust.