St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center presented the 42nd Haute with Heart Fashion Show & Luncheon at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront on Aug. 10. The invitation for the event this year was by featured artist and SMSC student John Agostini. His artwork was of the legendary actress Rita Hayworth. Each guest was given a note card with this artwork on it.
The event kicked off with a social hour and fabulous silent auction. There was shopping with fun boutiques for everyone’s enjoyment. Each person was able to have their picture taken as they came in and were greeted by students of SMSC.
As the guests sat down for lunch, Cirque Quirk treated them to an amazing circus performance. Master of ceremonies was Clint Bell and Marianne Kushi, anchor at NBC 7 News Today, was the celebrity emcee. The Honorary Chair Dee Ammon and Host Chair De Anna Dougherty welcomed the crowd. Sr. Virginia Rodee, RSCJ, gave the invocation and SMSC student Charlie Lizarraga sang the national anthem.
Clint Bell was the auctioneer for the live auction, which had so many incredible items. One priceless item was to be the first car in valet after the event, paid parking including gratuity, have a personal concierge carry your auction items to your car and have two of your favorite Starbucks beverages waiting for you.
The theme for the fashion show this year was” Dreaming of Style.” Leonard Simpson, creator of Fashion Forward, produced this theatrical production. He gave the audience a “dreamy” fashion experience. SMSC Students came down the runway with special guests wearing fashion from Macy’s. Satori Boutique showed eclectic fashions on the runway with bold designs. Vicente Guzman Cruz had a collection on the catwalk with vibrant colors.
Jennifer Grace from Chateau Bel Age showed sophisticated clothes with a touch of gold. John Parks from Ziglio Suits presented well-tailored suits for men. The finale showed cased couture designer Juliet Sailo with headpieces topped off by Gloria Parker. Other designers in the show included Aimee Fuller Hats and Debbie Solan.
St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center provides programs for adults who have developmental disabilities. This may include autism, Down syndrome, or cerebral palsy. Some of the programs include art, music, drama, and dance along with an organic garden program and an aquatics and fitness program. All these courses are used to educate and empower these individuals.
The motto for St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center is “Empowerment for Life…. through Innovation and Education.” If you would like more information about this terrific organization, visit stmsc.org.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, Sept 21 — 15th annual Strut for Sobriety. This will be a boutique, luncheon, awards ceremony and fashion show to be held by A New PATH at the Sheraton Harbor Island Marina Tower. The event celebrates recovery from drug addiction. Fashion show produced by Gretchen Productions. For info: 619-670-1184
Saturday, Oct. 5 — 33rd annual Fur Ball. Held from 6-11 p.m. at the San Diego Humane Society. Honoring Senate President Pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins. The evening includes a cocktail reception, live and silent auctions, and exquisite vegetarian meal prepared by chef Jeffrey Strauss of Pamplemousse Grille and after-party with music by Haute Chile. Well-mannered leashed dogs are invited. For tickets, call: 619-243-3469.
Monday, Oct. 14 — Zandra Rhodes: 50 Fabulous Years in Fashion. Book signing with Zandra Rhodes, who is one of Britain’s most recognized designers, and a discussion about her 50 years in fashion. The designs are from 1969 to present. Location is Warwick’s, 7812 Girard Ave., at 7:30 p.m.
Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned couture milliner based in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and blogger at DianaCavagnaro.com.
