Conversation Beside the Pool at the French Heritage Society Summer Soirée

Conversations Bloom Beside the Pool at the French Heritage Society Summer SoiréePhoto Courtesy of Andrew Werner

Soirée in Style: French Heritage Society’s Hamptons Summer Affair Marries Legacy and Luxury

Poolside Elegance, French-American Cultural Pride, and a Dash of Josephine Baker Define the 2025 Summer Soirée in Bridgehampton

On the evening of July 18th, 2025, the French Heritage Society (FHS) once again proved that preservation can be just as glamorous as it is purposeful. Held at the picturesque Bridgehampton estate of Maria and Kenneth Fishel, the third annual Summer Soirée brought a curated blend of art, fashion, music, and philanthropy to the Hamptons' social calendar—this time with a distinct French twist.

An Estate Garden Transformed for a Night of Cultural Glamour

FHS Leaders Celebrate in Haute Hamptons Style

Elegant Summer Spread Surrounded by French-Inspired Blooms

Celebrating Culture Under the Stars

With the summer sky as its canopy and the poolside setting bathed in golden light, the soirée was produced by Hank Stampfl of Revel Rouge and supported by an ensemble of tastemakers: DESTREE, known for its Parisian chic; Whispering Angel, the cult-favorite rosé that has become synonymous with elevated outdoor gatherings; and Christofle, whose artful tableware elevated each detail.

Whispering Angel Sets the Mood for Sunset Rosé MomentsPhoto Courtesy of Andrew Werner

Grammy-nominated vocalist Jennifer Jade Ledesna paid tribute to Josephine Baker, honoring the legendary performer’s French-American legacy in a stirring musical performance that seamlessly bridged heritage and haute soirée.

A Guest List with Gravitas

The Host Committee—CeCe Black, Maria Fishel, Rosann Gutman, and Ann Van Ness—welcomed a guest list that felt like a cross-section of New York's cultural and philanthropic vanguard. Among the distinguished attendees were FHS Trustees Jennifer Farrell, Brenda Howard, Liz McDermott Barnes, Maureen Nash, and Jean Shafiroff, alongside Benefactor-level supporters including Melanie Boude, Patricia Cossutta, and Francine Crocker.

Notable names like Sharon Bush, Ramona Singer, Wendy Federman, and David Jimenez added star power to the guest list, while international guests such as Olivia Bourrat, Director of Museums and Cultural Heritage at Villa Albertine, reinforced the event’s global significance.

A Bridgehampton Estate Transforms Into a French Garden PartyPhoto Courtesy of Steve Eichner/Annie Watt

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Remarks with Purpose

The evening wasn’t solely about the setting or the style. Maria Fishel and FHS Executive Director Jennifer Herlein addressed the crowd with heartfelt remarks, underscoring the organization’s commitment to protecting cultural landmarks. Olivia Bourrat followed with an impassioned affirmation of French Heritage Society’s evolving role as a bridge between past and present, and between France and the United States.

James Dawson, Melanie Poude, Maria Fishel, Kenneth FishelPhoto Courtesy of Andrew Werner

Beyond the Soirée: The FHS Mission

Proceeds from the evening support FHS’s mission to ensure that the treasures of French architectural and cultural heritage continue to inspire. With over $16 million awarded across more than 700 grants since its founding 43 years ago, the organization’s impact is indisputable. FHS also fosters the next generation of cultural stewards, having funded nearly 600 university students for transatlantic internships at renowned institutions.