The YWCA Princeton hosted their 7th Annual last night at the Westin Hotel, and it was a wonderful event. 100% of the fundraiser’s proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC) which provides a myriad of services for breast cancer patients and survivors.
We walked down a pink carpet to the entrance like the VIPs they are, then checked in and received a pink faux pearl necklace and an auction booklet. There were cheese and antipasto buffets and a cash bar at the reception, along with silent auction items beautifully wrapped in gift baskets on tables along the perimeter. A few hors d’oeuvres were passed giving it a touch of elegance. The emcee, Karen Jeziemy, walked around giving her commentary heard over the speakers, so I felt like I was attending a televised awards dinner. She was actually pretty funny.
After the reception, the doors were opened to the main room, which was filled with large round tables set around the runway. The tables were graced with stunning floral arrangements donated by local florists, who were entered in a centerpiece contest to be later judged. The guest at the tables could even bid on the arrangements. Before the show began, there were a few varieties of pasta offered as the main dish in case we weren’t filled at the reception.
We were silenced for two items to be auctioned off live, and I must say, Harrie Copeland was an amazing auctioneer! The BCRC director, Kara Stephenson spoke and made introductions, and then the fashion show began. The lighting was spectacular, with jeweled shades of pinks, purples and greens. Top 40 music was played by DJ Mindee Star, and it set the mood. The models came out smiling and upbeat, most of them survivors, and some were relatives, or the doctors or nurses who had treated some of them. The fall fashions worn were really nice, and the models had fun showing them off.
Two more live auction items went on the block, cake was served, and the raffle winner was announced. Every guest received a really nice swag bag filled with a pack of tissues (in case things got too emotional), skin and lip care products, a small piece of jewelry, info, chocolate, a single pink rose, and a box set including a CD for a relaxing sleep, earplugs, an eye mask, and sleep balm. Wow! All of the sponsors and supporters were so generous, and made this an evening to remember!
I know the fundraiser is all about the cause, but it’s nice when benefits offer a little something. The In the Pink event definitely made my heart grow, fed and entertained me, and gave away some nice products, which is A LOT more than I expected! Mark your calendar for next October, because the In the Pink Fashion Show is a fundraiser you won’t want to miss!