Savoring the Season at Eagle’s Trace

Houston, Texas--When Ruth Herman moved to Eagle's Trace, the West Houston retirement community developed and managed by Erickson Living, fourteen years ago, she wanted to continue hosting family and friends for special occasions.

"I always hosted at least one holiday, if not more, each year," says Ruth, who's active in her Jewish community.  "It was important to me to keep that tradition."

At Eagle's Trace, it's easier than ever to entertain family and friends.  With an on-site catering team and a variety of venues to choose from, there are countless ways to customize special events.

"Over the years, I've hosted parties for several Jewish holidays at Eagle's Trace, and the catering team has been attentive to the details," describes Ruth.  "For Rosh Hashanah, we have apples dipped in honey to ensure a sweet new year ahead.  For Passover, the catering team prepares matzah balls.  It's easier on me because I'm not doing all the shopping, cooking, and cleaning."

Stress-free Entertaining

Benjamin Herrera, Catering Coordinator at Eagle's Trace, says stress-free entertaining is a phone call away.

"When a resident contacts me to plan a party, we'll sit down to choose the menu, pick the location, and work out any special requests," says Mr. Herrera.  "We go over everything, from linen colors to napkin folds.  If they need a cake or flowers, we procure those items.  If they need audio-visual capabilities, like a projector or a microphone, we'll make sure those items are set up and ready to go."

In addition to residents' apartment homes, Eagle's Trace has plenty of versatile, thoughtfully designed spaces to host special events.  Indoor venues include two private dining rooms, classrooms, restaurants, café, pub, and other unique rooms.  Outdoor options include the courtyard and patio.

"Whatever the need, we can accommodate it," notes Mr. Herrera.  "We've catered intimate dinners for eight in resident apartments, and we've catered parties for over 200 guests in our restaurants. There's no room charge for the venue, and the meal cost is reasonably priced."

Menu options are varied, with options ranging from cookies and coffee to a sit-down meal of lobster tail and filet mignon.

"On the day of the party, we take care of the preparations, the service, and the clean-up," states Mr. Herrera.  "All the host has to worry about is having a good time."

Parties for Resident Groups

Tom Wills and his wife Sandy have planned the holiday party for the Soaring Eagle's Wine Club for the past several years.

This year's party was the largest to date, with 205 guests in attendance.  Tom worked with catering services to plan a seven-course meal, each course paired with wine.

"It's always a fun event, and a great way to kick off the holiday season," says Tom.  "The servers do a great job of making sure everything runs smoothly."

A Full Social Calendar

The spirit of the season continues well into the New Year at Eagle's Trace.  There's no better time to delight in a vibrant, engaged lifestyle than during this time of year when holiday events punctuate the calendar and the community décor reflects the spirit of the season.

This month, Eagle's Trace will host the Houston Tuesday Musical Club Chorus, the Celebration Ringers Handbell Choir, the George Bush High School Varsity Mixed Choir and Pianist Glennie Scott.

"One of the great benefits of the community is having attractive spaces that will accommodate just about any size entertainment event," says Kristin Malejan, Director of Resident Life.  "The lifestyle people enjoy at Eagle's Trace is full of exciting opportunities to engage in fun activities and enjoy quality entertainment."

About Eagle's Trace: Eagle's Trace, one of 20 continuing care retirement communities developed and managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 72-acre campus in West Houston, Texas.  The not-for-profit community of more than 935 residents and 500 employees is governed by its own board of directors, affiliated with National Senior Campuses, who provide independent financial and operational oversight.  Additional information can be found at EaglesTraceCommunity.com.