Fashion show nets big benefits for Boys & Girls Club

The theme of last Friday’s “Fashion in the Vineyards” event was “The Devil wears Helen Lyall” but it was the angels in the audience who were the stars of the show.
Board president Deborah Emery, who founded the show in 2002, said that this year’s extravaganza was “the best show ever.”
“The venue (Cline Cellars) was amazing, with all those wine barrels for a backdrop,” said Emery, who added that preparation for the annual production takes nearly an entire year, partly because it is one of the rare local fashion shows that is professionally mounted.
The show is designed, choreographed and produced by fashion icon Helen Lyall (the theme is a take-off on the popular novel, “The Devil Wears Prada”). The reception preceding the live and silent auctions and the show itself was catered by Kinyon Catering.
Many of the models, both male and female, were locals affilated with the Boys & Girls Club, including Emery and fellow board members Paula Parks and Clem Moore.
Year after year, one of the most popular parts of the show is the opening segment, created by the Boys & Girls Club, with club members modeling the clothes. This year, Kohl’s Department Store provided the fashions and allowed the boys and girls to keep the clothes they modeled.
Last week’s production was no exception, with the kids’ fashion show a highlight of the evening.
Auction lots ranged from an extravaganza of 2,500 daffodils (purchased by Linda Viviani and friends) to luxury trips in places like St. Thomas, USVI, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
“We’re very happy with the event,” said Katie Holden, development and marketing director for the Boys & Girls Club Valley of the Moon. “We think it was a great success and we’re very grateful to all those who purchased tickets in support of the Boys & Girls Club.”
“People don’t realize how many things the Boys & Girls Club does,” said board member Marchelle Carleton. “Parents are so grateful for the opportunities the club gives their children. The kids gain a true sense of hope and inspiration. Every person who comes to this event is contributing directly to these boys and girls.”
The show and auction now bring in a substantial part of the Boys & Girls Club’s yearly budget, according to Emery. “All our funds come from local individuals and businesses, and through events like this and the Sweetheart Auction.”