A Soirée for France

French Heritage Society welcomed nearly 240 guests to a Provence-inspired Summer Soirée in Bridgehampton, raising support for architectural restoration, cultural programs and transatlantic internships while strengthening the historic ties between France and the United States.

French Heritage Society brought the spirit of Provence to Bridgehampton for its fourth annual Summer Soirée, hosted at the home of Maria and Kenneth Fishel. Nearly 240 guests gathered for an evening of preservation, culture and French-American friendship in support of the organization’s expanding work.

The event was chaired by CeCe Black, Maria Fishel, Rosann Gutman and Ann Van Ness. Guests were welcomed by the chairs, Kenneth Fishel and French Heritage Society Executive Director Jennifer Herlein, who highlighted the importance of protecting architectural landmarks and creating educational opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic.

The 2026 soirée became the organization’s most successful to date, raising significant funds for restoration grants, student internships and educational programming. A portion of the proceeds will support the New York Chapter’s preservation grants for Lyndhurst in Tarrytown, Villa Albertine in New York City and St. Bartholomew’s Church.

The garden setting reflected the evening’s Provençal theme, created by Revel Rouge founder Hank Stampfl. Champagne EPC, Veronique Gabai, Maison Gabrielle, Société de la Rassi and JOG Editions provided support, while Christofle, Baccarat and SFERRA contributed decorative elements that enhanced the tables and atmosphere.

Entertainment carried the celebration into the evening. French-American vocalist Quentin Bruno, known for appearing on The Voice: La plus belle voix, joined Danny Lipsitz & The Brass Tacks and drew guests onto the dance floor.

Among the attendees were French Heritage Society trustees Jennifer Farrell, Kenneth Hausman, Brenda Howard and Jean Shafiroff, along with supporters from the worlds of philanthropy, design, business and the arts. The record attendance reflected the organization’s growing community and the broad appeal of its mission.

Founded in 1982, French Heritage Society preserves French architectural and cultural heritage while fostering the longstanding friendship between France and the United States. Over 44 years, the organization has awarded more than $16.5 million to over 710 restoration and cultural grants. It has also supported nearly 600 university students in transatlantic internships at distinguished institutions.

The Summer Soirée offered guests more than an elegant Hamptons evening. It connected celebration with stewardship, demonstrating how private support can protect historic places, strengthen cultural exchange and introduce a new generation to the shared heritage of France and America. The gathering also showed how preservation extends beyond restoring buildings. FHS’s internships and educational programs create personal connections between students, institutions and historic places, ensuring that craftsmanship and cultural knowledge are carried forward. With 12 chapters, including one in Paris, the organization has developed a network that turns admiration for French heritage into direct, measurable support.