Bourbon & Bubbles

From bringing engaging exhibitions to our galleries, to creating enriching art experiences, to investing in a new generation of artists and audience members alike, our Donor Circle supporters make it all possible. Your membership will be processed at the level of your charitable contribution.

For more information, contact Donor Engagement and Government Relations Manager Erin Hendges at 616.831.2906 or ehendges@artmuseumgr.org.

Customize your tour experience for up to 10 guests. Tours must be scheduled with three weeks notice. Food and beverage can be arranged for your guests for an additional fee. Please contact Advancement Events Manager, Annmarie Ventura to set up your tour.

By day, Luis Avila is an Attorney and Partner at Varnum LLP, and a proud board member at GRAM. When the workday ends, Luis’s passion turns to fine spirits. Luis has long been a devotee of Scotch whisky, but over time has come to deeply appreciate the bold, expressive character of American whiskey, especially bourbon — where, unlike scotch’s tradition of used barrels, brand-new charred oak brings a distinct sweetness and richness to bourbon.

Originally from Mexico City, Luis also loves exploring the fascinating parallels between tequila and whiskey, both of which share a reverence for craftsmanship, aging, and terroir. Luis considers himself a (amateur) collector of both whiskies and tequilas, always hunting for bottles with unique character and a great story behind them. Luis is thrilled to be part of the planning committee to help curate a selection of distinctive bourbons, each one chosen to spark curiosity and conversation.

As Executive Director of the White Oak Initiative, Jason works at the national level to ensure the long-term sustainability of America’s upland oak forests — especially white oak, which is essential to healthy ecosystems and the production of the barrels that give bourbon its signature flavor and character. He’s also the lucky husband of Kate Meyer, Owner of LaFontsee Galleries & Framing. Just as white oak is foundational to bourbon, Jason and Kate believe art is foundational to vibrant and connected communities, and are proud to support GRAM as it plays a vital role in cultivating that cultural richness.

Alex Thibodeau spends his days as a Litigator at Warner Norcross and Judd. In his spare time he enjoys exploring his extensive spirit and cigar collection. Thibodeau serves on multiple boards and committees in Grand Rapids, including his service as secretary to the GRAM Board of Trustees. He has ventured to distilleries on (and off) Kentucky’s bourbon trail, and has a deep love for the nuance that every mash bill and barrel-aging process produces. Thibodeau feels that what sets bourbon apart from other spirits are the stories bourbon tells about place, preparation, and patience. While Thibodeau does not claim to be the most knowledgeable connoisseur on the planning committee, he is committed to being the most enthusiastic. 

(Coming Soon)

Patti retired from Comerica Bank in 2017, where she was Senior Vice President and Michigan Market Manager for the retail bank. She traded that title for her current one of full time adventurer, and now enjoys fulfilling that mission. Patti is passionate about traveling the world, hiking across beautiful and challenging terrain, and contributing her time and talent to organizations in West Michigan. She serves on the GRAM board and is immediate past chair of the Cherry Health Foundation.

A longtime lover of champagne, Patti has visited wine houses in South Africa, France, Italy, and the United States. While champagne is often tied to celebratory events, Patti believes it is the perfect beverage for all occasions. She particularly enjoys a crisp glass of bubbles with salty popcorn or any spicy cuisine. She believes F. Scott Fitzgerald said it best: ​“Too much of anything is bad, but too much champagne is just right.”

Tracy Sianta landed in Grand Rapids 20 years ago after a career in the fast lane as an automotive executive and business consultant. She now brings her strategic expertise to Amway’s Global Sales Operations. A longtime member and supporter of GRAM, Tracy has a deep love for all things creative — and fermented. Her curiosity about wine turned serious in 2023 when she earned her Introductory Sommelier Certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers in New York. These days, she’s continuing her wine education through travel, tastings, and spirited conversations with local mentors. Tracy is excited to raise a glass at Bourbon & Bubbles, and share her passion with the Grand Rapids community.