Fashion For a Cause

Presented by The Realtor's Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh Foundation, “Fashion for a Cause” featured eleven top Pittsburgh designers, showcasing their work.

The event began with a VIP Champagne reception to Meet the Designers, followed by silent auctions, vendors and the main event, the fashion show.

From Alexis Meeker and Carson Wolfe's award winning duct tape design, to Beth Shari's romantic vintage lingerie, the eclectic mix of designs proved to entertain.


Always inventive, Bradford Mumpower's fringe style dresses were a favorite of the crowd. James Houk's evening wear designs, including the innovative “chain” dress, modeled by Diane Withrow, wrapped the show up in style.
The event was held to raise money for Emmaus Community of Pittsburgh, For more than 20 years, Emmaus has been providing permanent homes, respite care, in-home services, and advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities and autism. anon-profit organization built upon a vision of people with and without disabilities sharing their live

Diamonds and Denim on Market Square

Diamonds and Denim on Market Square

Laura Kronk with Joan Fazio

Third annual Diamonds and Denim on Market Square

Market Square was transformed on Saturday, June 25, as nearly 500 guests convened for the third annual Diamonds and Denim to benefit the Hillman Center for Pediatric Transplantation
Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.



Delicious gourmet food stations were positioned around the luxuriously appointed tents as guest mingled and sipped on cocktails. The decor, by Martin Potoczny and Luxe Creative was nothing less than amazing. Beautiful white floral arrangements graced the elegant candle lit tables, with a soft gray palette of sofas, chairs, and tables.
The evenings host, always gracious, Sam Badger, Development Coordinator, Corporate and Community Giving, insured everyone felt welcome. This annual event has evolved into one of the most anticipated functions of the year.
From Sandi Nicholas' glittering sequin cocktail dress to Ashley Harris' denim dress, the interpretation of "Diamonds and Denim", resulted in a eclectic mix of fashion.
DJ Samuel Andres, keep the crowd on the dance floor well into the evening.
To learn donate and learn more about the Hillman Center for Pediatric Transplantation please visit www.chp.org

Jungle Bash, Call of the Wild, Pittsburgh Zoo Gala

Jungle Bash, Call of the Wild

It was a picture perfect evening June 3, for the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium Gala, Jungle Bash, Call of the Wild. The zoo was transformed into an tropical paradise featuring hanging lanterns and exotic decor by Luxe Creative

Special guest Jack Hanna, Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo, greeted guests during the VIP Cocktail reception in the Garden Tent. Mr. Hanna, a Tennessee native, moved to Pittsburgh to attend Kisky Academy. Pittsburgh has always had a place in his heart.
Guest animals from the Columbus Zoo, included SP, (a sloth, rescued when someone attempted to sell her on ebay), Pequeno the Kinkajou, and Anchovy the Penguin.
The journey through the zoo progressed to the Village with Salmon Poke, Thai Peanut Chicken Satay, and Strawberry Rhubarb Gazpacho, created by the Zoo's private caterer, Taste of the Wild Catering. Nearly 1000 supporters of the Zoo and Aquarium mingled over cocktails before setting off to view the animals, in the under the stars experience, along the way enjoying Fava Bean Hummus and Marcarpone stuffed Strawberries.
The evening ended with a full buffet at the Plaza, including delectable desserts and entertainment.
The final 6 acres will be developed by the zoo, through Wildlife Legacy Campaign. Set to unveil later this summer the newest exhibit, "Jungle Trails" will be the new home of ocelot, giant anteaters, fossas, pygmy hippos and capybaras.
The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is home to thousands of animals, featuring 400 species, including 22 threatened or endangered species. The biennial Gala is the Zoo’s most important benefit with all proceeds supporting the Zoo’s animals, education programs, and wildlife conservation. To donate to the Zoo and learn more please visit PittsburghZoo.org

Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Spring Hat Luncheon

PNC Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy 18th annual Spring Hat Luncheon

With sunny skies and temperatures near seventy degrees, 650 guests convened at Frick Park for the 18th annual PNC Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, Spring Hat Luncheon on May 7, 2016. The luncheon, traditionally held on Kentucky Derby day, took place on May 7. The 600 acre city park also hosted the first Pittsburgh Hat Luncheon in 1998

The sold out crowd mingled with mimosas admiring each others hats, which grow increasingly more intricate and elaborate each year. Kiya Tomlin had a vision for this year's hat which Gina Mazzotta created featuring a chipmunk. Other notable hats included Lana Neumeyer's fuchsia plumed hat and Bonny Begay's organza picture hat.
Centerpieces of orchids, violets, azaleas, and begonias by Allison McGeary Florist, gave a true garden feeling to the event, held in a large canopied grass area of the park. Trees were available for adoption to benefit the Parks Conservancy along with the sale of the centerpieces.
Catered by the Duquesne Club, the lunch featured chilled carrot soup, lemon peppered beef and noisette of halibut ending with a dessert of signature macaroons and raspberry lime "hats"
Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy CEO, Meg Cheever spoke of the 158 Pittsburgh public parks which benefit from the Parks Conservancy. The Parks Conservancy is celebrating it's 20 anniversary this year, and to date has raised more than 92 million dollars. Over the course of the last 18 years, over 11,000 people have attended the Spring Hat luncheon which from it's inception has been sponsored by PNC.
To date, 14 major capital projects have been completed by the Parks Conservancy , including restoration of the Frick Park Gate House and the Frick Environmental Center, scheduled to open in a few months.
To donate and learn more about the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, please visit www.pittsburghparks.org

A perfect evening for the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Patron Party

 

The Patron Party for the 18th annual PNC Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Spring Hat Luncheon was the perfect preamble for the main event to be held in Frick Park on May 7th.

Graciously hosted on, Thursday April 14, at the exquisite home of Ramsey and Mike Lyons, guest enjoyed appetizers and an expansive array of desserts catered by the Duquesne Club.
Joining Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy CEO Meg Cheever, were Hat Luncheon co chairs Emily Mack Jamison, Ramsey Lyons, Charlene Petrelli, Kiya Tomlin, and Christy Wiegand.
Approximately 80 guests enjoyed the beautiful weather and freshly bloomed spring flowers. With excitement building for the luncheon, conversations centered primarily on hats! Always anticipated, Kiya Tomlin's hat is "a work in progress" having previously worn a true bee hive style and a Gina Mazzotta Millinery design.
Allison Hall, of the Parks Conservancy, explained the Butterfly donation program, which raises fund to assist in rebuilding the Frick Environmental Center. Butterfly sponsorships can be purchases for $1000, to bring the project to it's fruition.
Proceed from the Hat Luncheon benefit the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy , founded in 1996 to counteract and improve deteriorating conditions of the city parks. To donate and learn more please visit http://www.pittsburghparks.org/

Posted 1st July by Lisa Freeman

Children's Hospital 125th Anniversary Gala

Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh 125th Anniversary Gala

The David L. Lawrence Convention Center was transformed for the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation black-tie gala last night in celebration of the 125th anniversary of Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC,

Annie O'Neill Photography

Over 900 supporters were in attendance, including celebrities, athletes, business and government leaders. The event celebrated all of the community support that has enabled Children's Hospital to maintain its mission since 1890.
"This celebration recognizes 125 years of caring by our community and the hundreds of thousands of individuals who have given their time and support to ensure that every child in this region has access to the care they need and deserve," said Greg Barrett, president, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation.
The honorary chair for the evening actor and Pittsburgh native, Joe Manganiello, expressed his passion to support Children's Hospital. Other celebrity guests included former Pittsburgh Steelers Brett Keisel and Troy Polamalu; Mario Lemieux, (with Nathalie ), founder, Mario Lemieux Foundation; and Baron Batch, former Steeler and accomplished artist.
"The dedication, commitment and generosity of the people of Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities has been and will continue to be the driving force behind Children's," said Christopher Gessner, the president of Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. "This tremendous community support enables our expert physicians, nurses and other staff members to provide the best pediatric health care in the world every single day."
The evening began with a cocktail hour where guest mingled and admired the exquisite décor. Patrons were treated to a performance by Point Park Dancers, dancing beneath the glass bridge, prior to being escorted in the beautifully decorated ball room.
Music was provided by West Coast Music and featured 26 performers including a Motown vocal quartet and a 10-piece string section creating a unique sound and look for the event.
The Children's Hospital Staff, welcomed guests to the event and assured the evening flowed flawlessly.
During the event, it was announced that $11.9 million has been raised to date during the anniversary year campaign, to help continue Children's Hospitals dedication to the regions Children.
To donate to The Children's Hospital Foundation, please visit:
https://www.givetochildrens.org/

Ronald McDonald House Red Shoe Gala

Ronald McDonald House Red Shoe Ball

The Westin Convention Center was the setting for this year's Ronald McDonald House, Red Shoe Ball on November 14th. The evening began with a VIP reception followed by cocktails, hors d'oeuvers, and silent auctions.


The ballroom doors opened to display table decor featuring Jack Daniel's bottles in a true speak easy fashion, the theme for this year's event. Over 300 Guests enjoyed stations featuring "Martini Salads", Pasta, Carving and Dessert, which were followed by a moving video of actual residents as well as Ronald McDonald and Eleanor Reigel, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House.
Ms. Reigel took a moment to thank all of the supporters, including Arthur Moats and his wife Shonda, for their hands on support and generosity, actually baking cookies with residents.

The focus of the evening was to support Ronald McDonald House, which allows families to be at their children's bedside as they face life saving medical treatment.

Patrons gave generously, surpassing the events goal of $30,000, within minutes, as the evening's emcee, Steve Blass, described that a $5400 donation provides housing for one year for a family at the Ronald McDonald House.
The evening concluded with Casino style games and entertainment.
To donate and learn more, please visit: www.rmhcpgh.org

Salvation Army Garbage Bag Gala

Salvation Army Caring Center Fourteenth annual Garbage Bag Gala

On Friday October 30h, the Fairmont Hotel Pittsburgh was the setting for this year's Garbage Bag Gala to benefit The Salvation Army's Family Caring Center. The concept was created from the philosophy that rather than spending money on an expensive gown, a stylish outfit could be created from trash bags and recycled materials, and the perception “that everyone and everything deserve a second chance to be something great.”

Donna Fencik and Danielle Shirer , of the Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division, along with event co-chairs Jacque Speed and Astrid Bitzer, assured the event was executed flawlessly.

The ballrooms was transformed by a 20 foot garbage bag streamer creation hanging over the fashion show runway, a vision of event planner Shari Zatman, who volunteered her time and talent. Silver and white floral arrangements graced the tables as guest mingled and enjoyed appetizers and music by guitarist Mark Lucas and singer Tania Grubbs. Silent auction items included trips, jewelry, and sport memorabilia.

As patrons enjoyed the Asian cuisine buffet provided by the Fairmont , the evening's emcee Katherine Amenta, welcomed Major Deborah Sedlar, Divisional Commander, for The Salvation Army, Western Pennsylvania Division, to the stage to speak about the accomplishments of the Family Caring Center before launching into the main event, the Fashion show, featuring couture inspired gowns, by local designers constructed primarily of garbage bags and recycled materials.

The show got off to an amazing start with designs by Alexis Meeker featuring a stunning evening gown with geometric detail paired with a men's suit constructed from trash bags with matching geometric pattern. Tierney Smith modeled a sheath style dress with gold caged bottom designed a by Tierney and Bailey Miller.

Michael Anthony created a gold strapless dress with electrical tape design and fringed skirt which looked more like a couture cocktail dress, than something created from trash bags. Sofiya Mozley went more with a whimsical creation of multi -colored trash bag rosettes.

A masterpiece of rosettes and leaves was created by milliner and designer Gina Mazzotta, and modeled beautifully by Melanie Crockard. Kate Minton Colussy's sixties inspired mini dress featured chain like trim constructed from slides, and Jamie Miller created a couture inspired evening gown for her model, Bambi.

Sam Ruby designed with a wedding theme in mind, putting her model Anna in a braided bodice wedding gown, and Mackenzie Smith in a Lavender trash bag rosette flower girl dress. Beth Shari modeled her own Victorian inspired creation constructed of magazines, vertical blinds, and trash bags.

A show stopper for the evening , Bradford Mumpowers's backless halter dress, featured a ruched bodice and a structured double tiered skirt. The dress was accessorized with a vogue magazine and duct tape handbag.

Two sisters, Ashley Stark in a stunning V- neck newspaper cocktail dress with ruffled skirt and Kelsey Stark, dressed in a one shoulder lavender tiered evening dress, rounded up the show in style with their creations.

Always inventive, Lana Neumeyer created a dress from environmental disposal trash bags, orange fencing and plumes which won the judges votes for Garbage Bag Gala winner of 2015. Each designer exhibited great creativity and style.

Over 150 guest , many dressed in their own interpretation of garbage bag chic, came together to support and raise money for the Salvation Army Family Caring Center, To donate to the Family Caring Center, please visit www.salvationarmy-wpa.org

11th Annual W.G. Tomko “A Night on the Town”

It was an evening of hope Friday, October 9th, as more than 450 guests came out to support the 11th Annual W.G. Tomko “A Night on the Town” at the Sheraton Station Square benefiting Surgicorps International and Batten Disease Support & Research.

 

Dr. Jack Demos, the founder of Pittsburgh based Surgicorps International, greeted guests and shared success stories of Surgicorp’s 21 years of missions and accomplishments. With medical missions to Bhutan, Guatemala, Zambia, Vietnam this year alone, Surigicorps provides free surgical and medical care to those in need in developing countries.
“We were here until 3 am this morning organizing the silent auction item,” according to Sharon Tomko who devotedly supports these charities. “ It is a labor of love” along with her daughter Sheree Waskowiak , “Eleven years ago, I thought how can we make a difference”, and the “Night on the Town” event was inspired. She also stressed, that it is truly a team effort.
With nine healthy grandchildren, Sharon confesses, she would go to the end of the world and do anything to support children. She feels blessed and is passionate about giving back.
Battens disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder which is always fatal. However , it appears a cure may be close. Sherree shared the story of Film Producer, Gordon Gray's two daughters who were diagnosed with Battens, and the quest to raise Ten million dollars needed to to begin testing a promising treatment. Currently , approximately Three million dollars has been raised.
Last year's event raised $90,000 which went directly to the charities.
“We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters” stated Debra Tomko Kollet. “ Gift baskets and auction items were being dropped off until immediately before the event.”
The evening's entertainment included, emcee courtesy of Bubba, of 100.7 Star, Capa Jazz Quartet, and D.J. Digital Dave.
During the cocktail hour, guests mingled and viewed the silent auction items, which each features a success story of Surgicorps.
To donate please visit Surgicorps International, at: www.surgicorps.org and curebatten.org/

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Posted 1st July by Lisa Freeman

Diamonds and Denim on Market Square

The newly revitalized Market Square was transformed Saturday June 28th for "Diamonds and Denim” , The inaugural celebration to benefit Hillman Center for Pediatric Transplant Surgery at Children's Hospital .

The event, orchestrated by Sam Badger, Development Coordinator at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation, welcomed nearly 400 guests all dressed in very eclectic fashions. From cocktails dresses, to denim, to the evenings best dressed Joe King, in a jacket featuring 32 vintage brooches supplied by Le Mix Regent Square (www.lemixantiques.com).
The restaurants of Market Square and the surrounding area, including Oyster House, Capital Grill, and Moe's supplied signature dishes. White Diamond and Blue Diamond Vodkas were featured at the bar which surrounded DJ Zimmie, who kept the crowed moving all night.
Stunning handmade jewelry, by Belvoir Handmade, (BelvoirHandmade.com) was highlighted by owner and designer Ashley Bauer.
A representation of fashions By Langley, was presented. These stunning contemporary designs are available at ByLangley.com
Thomas (T.J.) Mavrovic and Ernest Baugh, represented Samuel Baron Clothiers, A luxury men's clothing company which constructs custom made suits. Known for the impeccable fit and attention to detail, these garment are hand produced and usually take about 4 weeks for delivery.
A summer shower only added to the ambiance of the event, with guest sheltered beneath the beautifully decorated tents, complete with white leather sofas, shimmering white fabrics, and a checkerboard black and white dance floor.
Honorary chair for the event, was Dr. George V. Mazariegos, Chief, Pediatric Transplantation Professor of Surgery and Critical Care, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, with his wife Rebekah.
To learn more about the Hillman Pediatric Transplant Department of Children's Hospital, or to donate

Posted 1st July by Lisa Freeman

These boots are made for dancing, the 60th Annual CLO Guild Ball

 

Saturday, June 6th the  Omni William Penn ballroom  was transformed For the 60th Annual CLO Guild Ball. In keeping with the theme of the evening "Kinky Boot” centerpieces featuring real footwear, were the concept of Christine Mattarochia and designed by Karen Brewer, Chris Puhlman Flowers.

Over 250 guest mingled during cocktail hour and tried their chances on the little pink boxes. Each box contained a gift worth at least $50 a concept which goes back to the the inaugural event in 1955. Silent Auctions, included "Accessorize those Boots" a designer purse, "When in Rome", a 3 night stay in Rome, and "Glamfurous", a Fox Fringe Boa, courtesy of Carl Herrman Furs.
Some notable outfit from the evening, Joe King's sparkling sequined red jacket and Sam Badger's very James Bond black and ivory satin jacket.
Pittsburgh's glamorous Catherine Loevner stunned in a strapless red satin gown with a daring ruffle slit. Always elegant, Laura Penrod dazzled in a black caged neck gown with black and red shawl.
The evenings guest of honor, Tony Award winner and Pittsburgh native , Billy Porter, performed several song and graciously allowed guests to be photographed with him throughout the evening. Mr. Porter will return to Pittsburgh from August 4 to August 9th, to reprise his award winning role as Lola in Kinky Boots.
“Proceeds from tonight's event will help keep musical theater thriving in our community, and for that we are excited and grateful to you.” was the message from Patti Matty Blenco and Krisen Matty Lane, Chairman of the Board and Guild President.
To donate to the guild, please visit http://www.pittsburghcloguild.org/

Posted 1st July by Lisa Freeman

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Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy 17th annual Spring Hat Luncheon

It was a picture perfect day for a sold out event at Riverview Park, for the 17th annual Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy spring hat luncheon, which raised over $500,000 toward park improvements. The luncheon, traditionally held on Derby Day, took place Saturday May 2.

 

Mimosas and champagne were served as the 675 patrons mutually admired exquisite hats, from Roseanne Wholey's beautiful blush organza hat to Debbie Norell's lovely soft pink fascinator.
Meg Cheever, President and CEO Of Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, graciously greeted guests as they arrived along with Scott Roller, Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications.
In preparation for the event, lawn crews kept the grass trimmed for 15 days and placed mulch throughout the park working diligently under the direction of Bob Lacky. (The Parks Conservancy is looking for volunteers to plant the 9,000 flowers which will be delivered to the Park On Tuesday May 12.)
Guests included Natalie Bencivenga, always elegant in a stunning red dress paired with a hat from Eons and Peggy Harris, who once again, did not disappoint, pairing an Alexander McQueen dress with a hand dyed bright red hat.
Centerpieces of orchids, and green succcculents by Allison McGeary Florist, gave a true garden feeling to the event, held in a large canopied grass area of the park. Trees were available for adoption to benefit the Parks Conservancy along with the sale of the centerpieces.
The luncheon, catered by the Duquesne Club, included chilled artichoke soup, and lobster rolls. The finishing touch, adorable hat shaped dark chocolate carmel torte and the Duquesne Club's signature macroons.
This years Committee CO-Chairs, Debbie Demchak, Annie Hanna Engel, Charlene Pettrelli, Kiya Tomlin, and Christy Wiegand, did a fabulous job in coordinating the event.
The Park Conservancy was founded in 1996 by a concerned group of citizens, who set out to counteract the deteriorating condition of Pittsburgh’s city parks. To date the Parks Conservancy has raised nearly $84 million.
To donate please or volunteer, visit PittsburghParks.Org