Friends Rosa Rozek and Cindy VanRosen enjoy having dinner out, shopping sales, viewing the latest clothing trends and supporting a local fundraiser.
The Schererville women were able to combine all four tasks when they attended the recent Little Black Dress Fashion Show & Boutique at Avalon Manor, sponsored by Goodwill Industries. Hundreds of visitors enjoyed hors d’oeurves, soft jazz music, browsing for bargains set up boutique-style and watching a professionally choreographed fashion show
“The layout here is excellent, and there’s such a good selection,” VanRosen said. “I just found a designer purse, brand new, with the tags still on it. And everything at this event is half off the regular Goodwill prices.”
The extravaganza offered guests the opportunity for a social night, time for a shopping treasure hunt and learning exactly what Goodwill Industries does in their communities.
Goodwill production supervisor Charles Russell greeted guests with oversize canvas shopping bags at the front entrance to the large ballroom — which was divided into two areas for the evening’s festivities. Visitors strolled among the many clothing racks set up around the perimeter of the ballroom. Large tables in the center of the room held an array of shoes, purses and accessories.
All items came from Goodwill stores in Northwest Indiana.
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“I had no idea what was in Goodwill stores, I’ve never taken time to stop in any of them” said Desiree Jellison, of Merrillville. “But now I’ve changed my mind. There’s so many good, quality things here to find.”
After the first half of the five-hour event, guests moved to an adjoining room to watch the fashion show.
The emcee was Laura Waluszko, Adams Radio Group news director. WIMS-AM 1420 partner and general manager Ric Federighi warmed up the crowd.
The event was coordinated by Kathy Friend, a stylist and image consultant who is president of the Style and Image Institute. The show included 18 volunteer models.
Community members and professionals, including Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson, walked the runway, sporting designs ranging from denim casual and business to dressy after-5 numbers.
“I didn’t think that the Goodwill places had such trendy things,” said Keri Oliver, of Merrillville. “I now have a new place to shop.”
During intermission, Goodwill public relations director Guy Fishers outlined the many programs his employer offers, including Excel Center in Hammond, which is a free public school that provides a high school diploma for adults.
After the fashion show, guests were invited to shop in the boutique.
Since preshow sales had thinned out the clothing racks and accessories tables, volunteers were busy restocking behind the scenes during the fashion show.
“I’m ready to go in there again,”Geena Martinez of Highland, said with a laugh “You know how we women can shop till we drop.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.