Toasting the Tour: Elegant reception caps Near & Far Aid benefit

An elegant cocktail reception under a large white tent on the manicured lawn of the Fairfield County Hunt Club Friday evening was the fitting culmination of Near & Far Aid's 2014 Designer House Tour, a daylong event that showcased five extraordinary homes in Fairfield, Southport and Westport.

Labeled "Toast the Tour," the reception was attended by about 100 people, who enjoyed martinis, champagne and savory food to the accompaniment of live jazz. Guests also relaxed in lounge areas by Lillian August and posed for photos with luxury automobiles from Miller Motorcars of Greenwich.

An additional treat was the Cuban cigars, hand-rolled by Raphael Lopes, which a number of gentlemen enjoyed along with a swirl of Scotch.

Proceeds from the house tour, as well as the reception, help Near & Far Aid, an all-volunteer organization, work to end poverty in Fairfield County. For more information about the organization and its programs, visit: www.nearandfaraid.org