At Billich Gallery’s Annual Christmas Celebration

Over the years, Kent and I have been invited to some awesome parties thrown by Charles and Christa Billich. But December is different this year. Due to the recent loss of Charles and Christa’s beloved pooch Charlie, the Billichs decided this year’s annual event should celebrate the life of their darling pupfluencer. And ‘It wouldn’t be Christmas without a little love for everyone… including our furry friends.’ noted Christa with her invitation. Although I was not able to take my beloved Holly, a ginger-fur Pomeranian who crossed the Rainbow Bridge a few years ago. Kent and I were delighted to be part of this year’s Christmas celebration at Billich Gallery.

Kent’s attire for the occasion was not as Christmas as I would have liked. A beige linen suit over a purple check shirt, a muted red lozenge tie (the only half-nod to the festive season), with a putty Panama hat. Whereas myself, I chose this sleeveless V-neck cocktail dress where the bodice of the dress was covered by aqua-green sequins – how fun! Plus, it’s very festive, especially fitting the Christmas theme.

Billich Gallery rolled out a red carpet for its guests that night. Inside the gallery, a large visual display of Charlie in her gorgeous pet couture was placed as a backdrop to a photo section where Father Christmas and his elves were happy to pose for guests for their Christmas album. And of course, true to Billich’s eccentric style and humour, this Santa was tanned with six-pack abs and tattoos! His elves – flirty, young, and attractive! We saw an effervescent and boyish Charles in his fabulous flamboyant ensemble posing for the press with naughty Santa and elves. And we couldn’t resist an opportunity to pose with them too. Kent enjoyed his moment between the elves!

Christa was wearing her signature red. An eye-catching red-lace cocktail dress that complimented her golden locks. Then, when Elvis impersonator and singer Steve King sang Can’t Help Falling in Love to farewell their beloved Charlie, Christa and Charles were very emotional… Christa was in tears. But really, what a beautiful way to say goodbye to your furry dear by sharing love with your friends’ pets, and, even support dogs in war-torn Ukraine! As the night’s donations will go to a Ukraine dog shelter.

Meanwhile, the fortunate four-legged guests at Billich’s party were in for prestige catering, including the world’s first serving of caviar for pets and pet champagne! Talk about being spoiled… ‘Just as our Charlie would have wanted.’ said Christa. And yes, we do remember how much Charlie enjoyed her pet caviar and doggie champagne.

With little furry guests wandering among us, the atmosphere of the event was pleasantly different, sweet, and fun-filled. Kent and I saw some familiar faces. I was happy catching up with Robyn, David, and Irina, whom we last saw before COVID-19! The Champagne flowed. Tasty hors d’oeuvres were served to both the two and four-legged guests. ‘What happens if I accidentally swallowed one of these?’ as I looked at a little tray of star-shaped green jellies decorated on tops of mini doggy treats, I asked the catering lady. ‘You’ll be fine,’ she assured me. ‘It’s all-natural ingredients, no sugar or salt. Some people find them delicious actually…’ Well, I have to admit I was tempted to take a bite.

‘Now we’ve said goodbye, we can move on.’ Christa stoically declared to Kent regarding Charlie’s lavish farewell. In fact, the event was so unique that it appeared on Channel Seven’s Sunrise program and Sunday Telegraph’s Party Confidential. So, what’s next for the Billich family? Perhaps a kitten this time as a new addition as I heard. Thank you again for having us, Christa and Charles. Kent and I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Furry New Year!