Great Country Mutt Show
Auction preview
Cocktails & Dinner for Four at The Abner Hotel, Litchfield
Treat yourself and three friends to a fantastic night out at the beautifully restored Abner Hotel, a former 1890 courthouse turned boutique gem. Enjoy dinner in the stunning Courtroom restaurant with its fresh, locally inspired menu, or head up to the rooftop bar, Verdict:, for cocktails and sweeping views of the Litchfield hills. Great food, great drinks, and a fun, lively atmosphere—it’s the perfect night out.
The Abner Hotel also supports The Little Guild by donating a portion of proceeds from guest stays—making this experience even more meaningful.
Elegant Dinner for 12 by Rita Welch
Rita Welch, caterer extraordinaire, offers an unforgettable dinner for 12—an evening of effortless elegance and exceptional flavor, seasonal multi-course menu, complete with perfectly paired wines, and handle every detail, from exquisite floral arrangements to the final course.
A truly special, all-inclusive dining experience, generously donated in its entirety by Rita.
Seven Nights in a Charming Tavira Townhouse, Portugal
Joel Howard and Tracy Tucker have generously donated a weeklong stay in their beautifully appointed two-bedroom townhouse in the heart of Tavira, a picturesque gem on Portugal’s eastern Algarve. Comfortably accommodating four guests, this inviting retreat features two en-suite bedrooms on the second floor, both with king-size beds; while the primary suite enjoys a private deck, the guest bedroom offers a quieter, equally comfortable setting.
Easily reached via direct flights from Newark to nearby Faro, Tavira is known for its historic charm, exceptional cuisine, and proximity to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches. With its cobblestone streets, vibrant cafés, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect balance of lively and serene.
Spend your days exploring by bicycle, wandering the riverfront, or discovering local markets and seaside escapes. To make your stay even more special, Joel and Tracy will provide personalized recommendations for their favorite restaurants, hidden gems, and must-see spots. Guests will also enjoy a warm sense of community, with wonderful neighbors—American, Canadian, British, Scottish, and Irish—who are known for being especially kind and helpful, ensuring an unforgettable Portuguese getaway.
THE VENICE OF THE ALGARVE
Custom Pet Portrait by Madeline Falk
Longtime Norfolk artist Madeline Falk has spent decades capturing the spirit and personality of beloved animals. Trained at the Corcoran College of Art and Design and influenced by master painter Frank Mason, her work reflects a classical tradition with a warm, lifelike touch.
Falk is especially known for her expressive dog portraits, with hundreds of commissioned pieces treasured by their owners.
The winning bidder will work one-on-one with Madeline, who will meet your pet, learn their unique character, and create a deeply personal portrait from her own reference photography.
Donated by Madeline to benefit The Little Guild, this offering is for a 10” x 10” head-and-neck portrait—a timeless keepsake of your cherished companion.
Grand 3-Bedroom Apartment in Provence
A week in a beautiful three-bedroom apartment in Bonnieux, in the Luberon Valley of Provence, thoughtfully restored by a celebrated antiques dealer and her late husband, an accomplished architect. Set within a grand residence carved from a palatial 14th-century structure—built atop medieval underground dwellings—the home is rich in history, character, and understated elegance.
The apartment features three bedrooms, two baths, a large kitchen with fireplace, dining room, and a gracious living room/study with high-speed internet. There is no air conditioning. The apartment is reached by stairs, which may be helpful to keep in mind for anyone with mobility considerations.
Guests describe it as “downright magical”—waking to sweeping countryside views, exploring by day, and returning home to a kitchen so thoughtfully designed it inspires even the most casual cook.
A curated list of favorite markets, restaurants, fairs, and local excursions will be provided for a true insider’s experience.
Available for one week in summer, early fall and spring 2027, this is a rare opportunity to experience Provence in a deeply personal and unforgettable way.
Visit the website: MARSTONHOUSE.com. (French rentals)
Generously donated through the friendship of Joan Osofsky
Private Tennis Experience with Edgar Giffenig & Lunch at Norfolk Country Club
Elevate your game with an exclusive tennis experience led by renowned pro Edgar Giffenig. With over 25 years of coaching high-performance players, Edgar began at his alma mater, the University of Texas, and has since served as a national coach for the U.S., Germany, and Mexico. For the past 10 years, he has led the tennis program at the Norfolk Country Club, where his instruction is in high demand.
Gather a group of your friends for this exceptional experience: a one-hour private clinic for up to eight players, followed by an hour of open play with Edgar and his assistants courtside, offering tips and guidance throughout. The day concludes with a relaxed and delicious lunch on the club’s beautiful porch.
A rare opportunity to learn from one of the very best—perfect for players looking to sharpen their skills in a truly special setting.
A mutually convenient date to be decided for summer of 2026.
Donated by Edgar Giffenig.
The Mission of The Little Guild
Strengthening the loving bonds between people and pets in our communities.
The Little Guild is dedicated to rescuing and nurturing homeless dogs and cats for adoption into safe and caring homes. To improve well-being, we also provide educational programs and training, as well as medical, food and social services support to pet owners in need.