Angela Gala and Sikky Rogers are the dynamic design duo behind Rogers & Gala, an acclaimed event planning business that has created memorable weddings, parties and corporate events across the country and abroad. Their business includes a growing Holiday and Seasonal Design division. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROGERS & GALA.

Acclaimed event planner Sikky Rogers didn’t realize it at the time, but in 2016 she gave her event planning company Rogers & Gala a big gift. That’s the year she and her business partner Angela Gala decided to add a division devoted to holiday decor. “It has been good for us during Covid because all of our events were cancelled,” Sikky says.

The holiday division’s niche is focusing on commercial buildings. The dynamic design duo work all year with their team of top-notch vendors to create stunning decorations for their clients. Everything must be in place by Thanksgiving and usually stays up until the New Year.

In this unusual year, the property managers they work with decided to scale back some of their decor. Because of social distancing, no one wants to entice people to congregate in lobbies to view elaborate displays.

For example, the enchanting small-scale winter city scene with 40 handmade buildings Rogers & Gala commissioned a train maker in Dallas to create for a client’s lobby has been packed away this year. Instead, the emphasis will be on a 26-foot-tall lighted Christmas tree with 1,000 ornaments that can be seen from the street.

An outdoor display showcases a stunning Christmas tree dripping with lights and ornaments.

Crystals reflect sunlight into this lobby causing a spectrum of colors to dance all over the floor. 

To see more of the elegance Sikky and Angela are known for, visit rogersandgala.com. Or follow them on Instagram at @rogersandgalaevents where you’ll also see Sikky Says, which is Sikky’s expert advice on etiquette. What is one of the modern bad habits she sees the most often? “Putting a cell phone on the table while dining,” she says. “My grandchildren used to do that when I would take them out to eat. They stopped when I told them I wasn’t going to pay anymore unless they put their phones away.”

Here’s more of Sikky’s thoughts on where she finds inspiration, the biggest seasonal decor trend and how to enjoy the holidays.

The Inspiration Behind The Holiday Division

“i was tired of looking at commercial buildings that weren’t decorated in a sophisticated way. I wanted to see something more special that would attract attention to the buildings in an elegant way.” 

Chic Advice For Your Home

“This year is about smaller displays and entertaining smaller groups of people. What we’ve found to be the most popular decor now is Winter Wonderland — a white Christmas look with flocked trees and lots of lights. There are so many great LED lights out there that you can buy to make almost anything twinkle and shine.” 

Cheers To 2021

“We believe things will get back to normal next year and it’s going to be really busy, so we’re planning to expand our holiday division even more. We’ll be going to the Christmas show in Atlanta to see what’s new. We also get a lot of our ideas from going online searching for inspiration from all over the world. We keep a notebook of all the ideas we like. But it’s when we get on site and look at a property that we really see in our minds what we want to do.”

Her Best Advice For Enjoying The Holidays

“Don’t have expectations. if you don’t have any expectations for events and people, then whatever happens is a good thing. i get in trouble when i expect something to be wonderful or expect someone to do something that is wonderful. That’s when i get disappointed. Years ago for Thanksgiving, I wanted everyone in my family to dress in Black Tie. My children finally told me they didn’t have a good time because I had so many things I wanted them to do that it wasn’t fun for them anymore. I’ve learned to just be with my family and enjoy them.”

GLOBAL ART GALA

Photos by Party of Two Photography

The Mint Museum’s Coveted Couture Spring Gala presented by Wells Fargo Private Bank was also a celebration of the final days of the museum’s popular exhibition African-Print Fashion Now! A Story of Taste, Globalization, and Style. 

Just like the exhibit, the gala was colorful, culturally rich and reflective of the global community. Always a must-attend event, tickets sold out quickly. The Gala Chairs were chic couple Ashley and Scott Mattei who set the tone for the fashion-forward evening

Four hundred of Charlotte’s most prominent civic leaders, supporters and museum patrons were part of the glamorous black-tie dinner dance. Their participation allows the museum to continue its great programs that reach into all sectors of the commmunity.

“The gala is so important because it’s our signature fundraising event for the museum,” says The Mint Museum’s President & CEO Todd Herman. “It affords us the opportunity to celebrate our positive impact on the community with our closest donors and corporate supporters while raising critical monies for our annual fund. The genuine love and passion poured into this event by all those that touch it truly makes the difference.”

Guests filled the Mint’s park-like lawn with fun, fashion, friendship and philanthropy before a seated dinner under a beautifully decorated tent. Afterward, the tent was turned into a dance party as guests of all ages joined in the revelry.

Todd’s favorite part of the evening is mingling with friends and his Mint family all in support of art. “It is all so inspiring, moving and intensely gratifying to witness the energy and enthusiasm for our mission,” he says. “What I also find inspiring are the mix of people at our gala who support the Mint and many of the other arts organizations in Charlotte. It truly is an ecosystem that only survives when we all work together.”

A MAGICAL MORNING

Nina Campbell, center, is one of the world’s most influential interior designers. She was the speaker at the Mint Museum Auxiliary’s Room to Bloom Decorative Arts Symposium.

Photos by Travis Burton, TO2 Photography

Nina Campbell, one of the world’s most influential interior designers, was the speaker at the Mint Museum Auxiliary’s Room to Bloom Decorative Arts Symposium. The sold-out event at Charlotte Country Club was sponsored by Wells Fargo Private Bank and co-chaired by the Auxiliary’s Keri Clavin and Amy Kerr.

“The Mint is so grateful to the Auxiliary for their hard work on this extraordinary event,” says Hillary Cooper, Director of Advancement & Communications for the Mint Museum. “It serves as a wonderful fundraiser and friend-raiser for the museum. The caliber of speaker they annually attract is top-notch and the beauty, color, inspiration, positive energy, and palatable enthusiasm shared for art, design, and the Mint’s mission is absolutely electric.”

Campbell — whose clients include British Royalty, Rod Stewart and Ringo Starr — delighted the crowd with her sharp wit and timeless style. After her talk, she signed copies of her newest book, Nina Campbell Interior Decoration: Elegance and Ease. Then guests were seated for a lovely luncheon.

“What an honor to hear and learn from such a legend within the interior design industry,” Hillary says. “I loved when shared that brown furniture has always been in fashion and is experiencing a Renaissance – long live Lady Campbell.”

A VOGUE-WORTHY EVENT

Todd A. Herman, Tonne Goodman, Chandra Johnson and Ivan Shaw.

Photos by Lydia Bittner-Baird

It was a Vogue-worthy evening when Wells Fargo Private Bank, SOCO Gallery and The Mint Museum hosted Cocktails, Conversation, and a Book Signing with Tonne Goodman and Ivan Shaw. The celebration was in honor of Vogue Fashion Director Tonne Goodman’s new book, Point of View: Four Decades of Defining Style.

The ultra-chic attendees gathered for cocktails on the lawn of the Mint Museum’s Randolph Road location before being seated under a modern tent for a light supper and a program focused on Tonne’s storied career as a fashion influencer.

Surrounded by stunning flowers from Watered Garden Florist, Tonne and fellow legend Ivan, Vogue’s director of Photography and producer of the book, were interviewed on stage by the Mint Museum’s new president and CEO Todd A. Herman. (Ivan is also famous for being the inspiration for the beloved character Nigel in The Devil Wears Prada.)

“It was an incredible honor to host Tonne and Ivan in Charlotte,” SOCO Gallery owner Chandra Johnson says. “Tonne is an enormous part of fashion history. It was a privilege to hear about the numerous iconic fashion images she has created over the years and how she shaped her eye to be one of the most influential editors of our generation.”

The idea for the evening began because book signings are such a strong part of the programming at SOCO Gallery. Chandra was working with Ivan on a previous SOCO Gallery signing of Around That Time: Horst at Home in Vogue when he mentioned Tonne’s new publication. “I jumped at the opportunity to bring her to Charlotte,” Chandra says. “I was delighted The Mint Museum and Wells Fargo partnered with us for the event.”

Each guest received a copy of the gorgeous visual biography, which Tonne signed. But that may not be the end.

After such an engaging and positive evening, Tonne and Ivan became huge fans of Charlotte. “Ivan is quickly becoming a Queen City regular and we are already in discussion about another signing for a book he is producing with Jim Moore from GQ,” Chandra says.

CELEBRATING WOMEN

Nancy McNelis, Pamela Davies, Carol Lovin, Gregg Renfrew, Madelyn Caple, Joan Zimmerman and Hillary Cooper.

Artist Windy O’Connor and her mother.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles.

Gail Brinn Wilkins and her fellow past Charlotte Business Women of the Year recipients who attended were asked to stand so they could be recognized for their contributions to the community.

Sherrard Georgious and Natalie Allen.

Photos by Tricia Coyne Photography

The mission of the Visionary Women Luncheon is to celebrate the power and purpose of women coming together to share big ideas that benefit the community. It's presented annually by Wells Fargo Private Bank, Queens University of Charlotte and the Mint Museum.

The luncheon is also a tribute to the past 34 recipients of Queens University of Charlotte's Business Woman of the Year; and the Charlotte Woman of the Year program, which began in 1955. Charlotte's 2019 Business Woman of the Year is Carol Lovin, Executive Vice President and System Chief of Staff for Atrium Health.

“This event is unique because it is singularly focused on celebrating women, women empowerment, women supporting other women and women coming together to make a difference in our community,” says Madelyn Caple, Managing Director for Wells Fargo Private Bank. “Every detail is perfect — the invitation, the flowers, the menu and the program content — it’s all so thoughtful,” she says.

For the first time, the luncheon was held outdoors on the grounds of the Mint Museum Randolph amid gorgeous displays from Watered Garden Florist. Acclaimed artist Windy O’Connor created the designs that were used for the tablecloths and the invitations.

While guests enjoyed a delicious meal from Porcupine Provisions, speaker Gregg Renfrew, Founder and CEO of Beautycounter cosmetics, was interviewed on stage by Pamela Davies, former president of Queens University of Charlotte and the 2018 Charlotte Business Woman of the Year recipient.

Gregg’s cosmetics company is revolutionizing the industry by creating clean and sustainable products while also advocating for safer beauty laws.

Attendees were delighted to discover that Gregg is the cousin of sisters Hillary Cooper, The Mint Museum’s Director of Advancement & Communications, and Leslie Culbertson, Corporate Relations Manager for Anne Neilson Fine Art.

“Leslie and I are so proud of Gregg — she is an incredible person, wife, mother, entrepreneur, and friend,” Hillary says. “She has always been smart, driven, fearless, and confident. She has built an amazing business and is transforming the world.”

The warmth of the crowd and the meaningfulness of the event left an impression on the guest of honor.

“Gregg was blown away by the luncheon, the women she met in Charlotte and how engaging everyone was,” Madelyn says.

CELEBRATING MISS USA CHESLIE KRYST

Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, a Charlotte attorney and the reigning Miss North Carolina USA, was celebrated by her family and friends at a private event at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. Cheslie also volunteers as a member of the Gantt Center's Millennial Advisory Board.

Photos by Paul Williams III Photography

Miss Universe Cheslie Tryst, a Charlotte attorney and the reigning Miss North Carolina USA, was celebrated by her family and friends at a private event at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture.

“Cheslie has set a new standard for the women that compete in pageants moving forward,” said Paula Miles and Ryan Miles, co-directors of Miss North Carolina USA, in a release following Cheslie’s win. “Her success, prior to winning the title will allow her to do things that no other Miss USA has done before her.”

Cheslie has been described as being bright, articulate, ambitious, and capable.

She grew up in Fort Mill, S.C. and earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of South Carolina. Her law degree is from Wake Forest University. She also has a fashion blog, White Collar Glam.

Chenille is also a Dress for Success National Impact Ambassador and will speak at Dress for Success Charlotte’s Ultimate Power Lunch on September 24 from 11:30 am – 1:15 pm at The Fillmore Charlotte. Tickets: charlotte.dressforsuccess.org.

Here’s video of Cheslie being crowned Miss USA:

SPEEDWAY CHILDREN'S CHARITIES GALA

Speedway Children’s Charities Founder Bruton Smith greets Carolina Panthers player Luke Kuechly.

Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine prepared a truly incredible menu for attendees.

The evening was a tribute to NASCAR Vice Chairman Mike Helton, who was introduced by Marcus Smith.

Moore performed his No. 1 hit songs including Small Town USA and If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away.

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

One of the many highlights of the 39th annual Speedway Children's Charities Gala presented by Sonic Automotive at The Ritz-Carlton uptown was a tribute to NASCAR Vice Chairman Mike Helton, a longtime NASCAR executive who in 2000 succeeded Bill France Jr. and became the third president of NASCAR.

In addition to Helton, a star-studded group of headliners including country music star Justin Moore and world-class Chef Robert Irvine, added to the festivities. Moore performed his No. 1 hit songs including Small Town USA and If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away, while Irvine prepared a truly incredible menu for attendees. Irvine is known for hosting some of the Food Network's most popular shows including Restaurant: Impossible and for founding the military veteran-supporting Robert Irvine Foundation in 2015.

"The Speedway Children's Charities Gala gives us a chance to help children in the greater Charlotte community and to celebrate our motorsports industry," said Marcus Smith, the vice chairman of Speedway Children's Charities. "The gala also provides us with the perfect platform to salute the tireless efforts of Mike Helton, one of the most influential people in NASCAR. Mike's leadership has been invaluable, and having him join us for the gala is a real privilege.”

The gala serves as a marquee fundraiser for Speedway Children's Charities' Charlotte chapter, a far-reaching nonprofit which assists children in need throughout the Charlotte area. The black-tie event features many prominent dignitaries from the motorsports industry as well as the nonprofit sector throughout Charlotte, the home base of Speedway Children's Charities since its founding by Bruton Smith in 1982.

RECORD-BREAKING CHARLOTTE BALLET FUNDRAISER

People’s Choice Winner Carl Showalter and Charlotte Ballet dancer Sarah Lapointe raised more than $592,000.

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

The Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte Gala was a record-breaking one for the fundraiser that’s now in its seventh year. The stars were six of Charlotte’s community and corporate leaders. They were paired with professional dancers from Charlotte Ballet to raise money for the ballet company and each star’s chosen charity. Held on the stage of Knight Theater, it raised more than $1.5 million.

The six pairs were:

Megan Hughes Allison of Genesco Sports Enterprises danced with Charlotte Ballet’s Colby Foss to benefit Pat’s Place.

John FitzHugh of Wells Fargo Securities danced with Charlotte Ballet’s Elizabeth Truell to benefit Novant Health’s Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Program

Erin Santos of the Isabella Santos Foundation danced with Charlotte Ballet’s Juwan Alston to benefit the Isabella Santos Foundation.

Carl Showalter of Showalter Construction danced with Charlotte Ballet’s Sarah Lapointe to benefit HopeWay.

William Smith of PNC Bank danced with Charlotte Ballet’s Amelia Sturt-Dilley to benefit Howard Levine Child Development Center at Renaissance West.

Dr. Courtney D. Stephenson of Atrium Health’s Charlotte Fetal Care Center danced with Charlotte Ballet’s James Kopecky to benefit The Cottie & Cake Fund.

People’s Choice Winner Carl Showalter, raised more than $592,000. The Judges’ Choice Winners were Dr. Courtney Stephenson and Erin Santos.

HOPEWAY'S INAUGURAL HANDBAG AUCTION

Amanda Hollingsworth, Sandra Levine and Amy Dawson.

Emily Maynard Johnson, right, was one of the committee members.

Gina Lawrence and Lori Sklut.

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

The inaugural What Are You Carrying? designer handbag auction at Quail Hollow Club was an evening of education, awareness and fun. The 300 guests bid on a selection of designer purses with proceeds going to support the therapeutic programs and financial assistance at HopeWay, Charlotte’s mental health treatment center offering residential and day treatment for adults in a first-class setting.

Funds raised go to HopeWay’s financial assistance program that increases access to a wider population of men and women who need help. Since opening in November of 2016, HopeWay has provided over $1 million in financial assistance and served nearly 700 people.

The event committee included Amy Levine Dawson, Preeti Deshmukh, Emily Maynard Johnson, Kara Olsen, Taylor Russ, Laura Philipson, Lori Levine Sklut, and Nazy Weeks. A Challenge Grant from Lori and Eric Sklut matched direct contributions to HopeWay up to $20,000.

The event was a huge success and raised more than $111,000 for HopeWay.

Famous photographer Sonia Handelman Meyer, 99, was the guest of honor at an exhibition of her and George Gilbert’s works at the Light Factory.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL COSTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Famous photographer Sonia Handelman Meyer, 99, was the guest of honor at an exhibition at the Light Factory that focused on The Photo League (1936–1951). This cooperative in New York City run by amateur and professional photographers was dedicated to the medium they loved. Both artists featured in this exhibition, Sonia Handelman Meyer and George Gilbert, were devoted members active in the League throughout the 1940s. They focused their lenses on the city’s street life, neighborhoods, and citizens, creating photographs that are a social documentary of the post-war era.

CHARLOTTE CONCERTS' CROWN JEWELS BALL

Claude and Sandy Hamilton

Clair Campbell

Howard Freese and Gail Brinn Wilkins

Sam and Carolyn McMahon

Pam and David Furr

Richard and Sonja Nichols, Diane Lumpkin Peery and Tom Gabbard

Tony and Stephanie Ansaldo

Terry Russell and Marjorie Serralles-Russell

Gene Hoots

Clair Campbell and Randy Coble

Pam and David Furr

Grazia Walker

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

This year’s Charlotte Concerts Crown Jewels Ball was titled the Cugat Club, an ode to Cuba’s heyday and the Rumba music of famous bandleader Xavier Cugat. Gala chair Clair Campbell, along with longtime supporters Sandy and Claude Hamilton, hosted the Latin-themed evening at Quail Hollow Club. Guests enjoyed cocktails, silent and live auctions, dinner and dancing to The Cugat Club Rumba Kings Orchestra. Proceeds benefit Charlotte Concerts’ mission of presenting concerts featuring the finest in internationally acclaimed performing artists and providing music education opportunities for students.

Although its mission remains the same, Charlotte Concerts is undergoing an exciting evolution in its 90 year history of bringing the best in classical music by performers from around the world to Charlotte. Beginning next year, Charlotte Concerts will have a new permanent home: Queens University of Charlotte’s Sarah Belk Gambrell Center for Arts & Civic Engagement. www.charlotteconcerts.org.

ALLEGRO FOUNDATION AMBASSADOR'S BALL

Molly Schugel and Jason Schugel, Allegro Board Chairman and Chief Risk Officer for Ally Financial; Greta Mulhall; Pat Farmer, Allegro Founder & President; His Excellency, Daniel Mulhall, Ambassador of Ireland to the United States; and Dr. John Young, Ireland's First Honorary Consul for North Carolina and Founder of McLaughlin Young Group.

Elizabeth Tanos-Priest, Allegro Foundation Founder and President Pat Farmer and Christina Melissaris.

Violinist Dennis Spring

Christina Melissaris

Felipe Gonzalez Edmiston and Bryan Edmiston.

Donna and Al de Molina.

Peg and George Povinelli.

Katrina and Bruce Moffett.

Kathy Reichs, internationally renowned author and creator of the TV show, Bones, with her husband, Paul.

Larry Sprinkle, Morning Forecaster at WCNC - NBC Charlotte.

Felix Sabates, host of the Ambassador's Ball and owner of Felix Sabates Mercedes-Benz of South Charlotte.

His Excellency Daniel Mulhall, Ambassador of Ireland to the United States.

Pat Farmer presents an award to Ernest Perry, Owner and President of Perry's Diamonds and Estate Jewelry.

Allegro Student Presenters with their Teaching Assistants from Bailey Middle School in Cornelius.

Allegro Student Presenters with their Teaching Assistants from Bailey Middle School in Cornelius.

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

Daniel Mulhall, Ambassador of Ireland to the United States, was the honoree at the Ambassador’s Ball at Quail Hollow Club. The Irish-themed fundraiser was a benefit for the Allegro Foundation, a Champion of Children with Disabilities. Highlights of the evening were a special performance by the children of Allegro and their teacher assistants, and Ambassador Mulhall’s presentation of a gift of Waterford crystal to the event’s host, Felix Sabates.

HARLEM NIGHTS

HARLEM NIGHTS

Dr. Tiffani Jones, South Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc.’s Foundation Chair.

Photos by Paul Williams III Photography

The South Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill of America hosted its new signature fundraiser, Harlem Nights, on New Year’s Eve. Guests were transported back to the 1920s at the themed event held at the Levine Museum of the New South. It featured a silent auction, music from DJ Shogun, heavy hors d’oeuvres from Mert’s Heart and Soul, and a chance for guests to view the museum’s art and history exhibits.

Members of Jack and Jill are committed to investing in programs and services that create a strong foundation for African American children to succeed in life. Funds from Harlem Nights will be distributed to three charities through the Jack and Jill of America Inc.’s Foundation: Renaissance West Community Initiative; The Relatives; and Above and Beyond.

GRAY HOLIDAY PARTY

Herb Gray, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and Felicia Gray

Photos by Paul Williams III

Philanthropists Herb and Felicia Gray know how to throw a party with a purpose. Their annual Gray Holiday Party raises money to help ensure that the Gantt Center continues to present, preserve and celebrate the best of African-American art, history and culture. Even Santa joined the festive evening that included sweet and savory treats, live music and dancing to a DJ

Gala chairs Jesse and Angela Cureton.

A model shows off a fantastical design made from recycled opera programs during the cocktail hour.

Models in designs made from recycled opera programs during the cocktail hour.

Maestro James Meena

Lisa and Perrin Dargan III

Stephen and Laura Philipson

Michael and Leslie Marciano

Pam Stowe, Laura Vinroot Poole and Lisa Dargan.

Gorgeous decor from John Lupton Events amid the scenery for Opera Carolina’s season opening production of Donizetti’s Daughter of the Regiment

Star tenor David Walton performs during dinner.

Rob Engel and Mary Tabor

Gala Chairs Jesse and Angela Cureton

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

Opera Carolina’s Bella Notte Gala is always one of Charlotte’s most enchanting evenings. This year’s fundraiser for our region’s premiere opera company was held amid the scenery for the season opening production of Donizetti’s Daughter of the Regiment. Gala Chairs Angela and Jesse Cureton joined the guests for an elegant evening that included a cocktail hour with models wearing fantastic designs made from recycled opera programs. The seated dinner featured exquisite decor by John Lupton Events. Opera stars performed for guests before everyone ending the evening on the dance floor.

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

Puttin’ On The Ritz was the theme of this year’s Pink Boots Ball, a fundraiser for Carolina Breast Friends. Proceeds support the nonprofit’s mission of helping women during every stage of their breast cancer journey - from diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments, living with metastasis, remission; or the fear of recurrence. Held at the Ritz-Carlton, the pink infused party included cocktails, dinner and dancing. carolinabreastfriends.org.

LEGENDS OF MUSIC COSTUME PARTY

Photos by Daniel Coston Photography

Every guest was a star at the Legends of Music Costume Party held at Duke Mansion to raise funds for the historic site’s Preservation Society.

Partygoers dressed as their favorite music legends from any musical era and rocked out to tunes from Hey DJ! There was also a Rat Pack Lounge for karaoke, over-sized outdoor games on the lawn and a silent auction.

Executive Chef Harrison Booth created a clever menu of food and drinks including Cheeseburger in Paradise Sliders, a Yellow Submarine Sandwich Station and We Got The Beet Salad. His fun desserts were Elvis’ Peanut Butter Banana Cake, Microphone Cake Pops and colorful cookies that looked like vinyl records and music notes.

THE ART OF FASHION

Kristine Matthews of Neiman Marcus and Bob Scheer.

Patti Tracey, Annie Carlano, the Mint Museum’s new president and CEO Todd Herman and Kim Blanding.

Delectables by Holly catered the event.

The Mint Museum’s Annie Carlano, Hillary Cooper and Ellie Osborn.

Lorie Walker and Jan Correll

DJ Trife from Scratch Events.

Photos by Genesis Photography and Daniel Coston

Neiman Marcus at SouthPark mall celebrated Fall fashion and The Mint Museum during The Art of Fashion benefit. During the fun evening, stylish guests enjoyed drinks and hors d’oeuvres from Delectables by Holly and and beats from DJ Trife.

Before the runway show, Neiman Marcus of Charlotte’s vice president and general manager Kristine Matthews thanked the guests and introduced The Mint Museum’s charming new president and CEO, Todd Herman. Then the models showcased the newest luxurious looks for Fall and Winter. To see all the stunning runway looks, go to the Fashion section. For the runway looks for men, go to the Men’s section.

WINE, WOMEN & SHOES

Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina CEO Kay Carter, second from left, with supporters.

Ernest Perry and his daughter, Hadley Perry Pacheco.

Two of the charming “Shoe Guys” who were there to assist guests.

Artist Melissa Herriott

Fun in the photo booth.

Guests shop at the Perry’s Diamonds & Estate Jewelry booth.

Photos by Paul Williams III

“Be there. Be giving. Be fabulous.”

That was the motto of Wine, Women & Shoes, a benefit for Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina held at the WestIn. The guests did not disappoint They showed up looking fashionable and ready to give back by shopping for the cause. There was also a wine tasting, savory bites, luxury vendors, a fashion show and more.

Proceeds go to Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina’s mission of fighting hunger in the Metrolina region through food distribution, programs, education and advocacy. Every $1 donated provides seven pounds of food.

ULTIMATE POWER LUNCH

Emcee WBTV anchor Maureen O’Boyle and Dress For Success Charlotte executive director Kerry Barr O’Connor with Paradigm Award winner Paul Silas and Joi Gordon, president and CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide.

Pam James

Paradigm Award winners Paul and Carolyn Silas.

Joi Gordon and Pam James.

Dress for Success board chair Edie Fletcher.

Dianne Roth and Sandra McCaslin.

Jill Dinwiddie and Barbara McLaughlin.

Joi Gordon and Kerry Barr O’Connor.

La-tea-da’s catered the luncheon.

Suzanne Libfraind and Bernadette Maulion.

Dress for Success board member Ellen Holliday.

Stiletto Swagger participants hand out calendars to guests.

Photos by Daniel Coston

Dress For Success Charlotte’s Ultimate Power Lunch fundraiser at the The Fillmore was a sold-out event. Some of Charlotte’s most powerful women and men gathered to help the nonprofit with its mission of empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help them thrive in work and in life.

The featured speaker was Joi Gordon, president and CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide. True to her name, her presence and heartfelt words were a joy to experience. During her talk she revealed that of all the Dress for Success Chapter’s worldwide, the Charlotte chapter ranks in the Top 5 most successful branches.

Much of that credit goes to Dress for Success Charlotte’s executive director Kerry Barr O’Connor, her outstanding staff and the generosity of donors including former NBA player and coach Paul Silas and his wife, Carolyn, a businesswoman and volunteer.

They were honored with the nonprofit’s Paradigm Award during the luncheon. In their acceptance speech. Paul said what an honor it was to serve the women helped by Dress for Success, and Carolyn thanked “angel” Marilyn Bowler for suggesting she get involved with the nonprofit. The couple were surprised with a video tribute produced by their children and grandchildren.

Another highlight was a moving speech by Dress for Success Charlotte’s Pam James, who talked about how she had personally been helped by Dress For Success when she was a single mother without a job or a strong support system.

Emcee for the fundraiser was WBTV anchor Maureen O’Boyle and the presenting sponsor was Wells Fargo. TIAA sponsored the Paradigm Award. The lunch sponsor was Synchrony and the meal was catered by La-tea-da’s.

As guests left, each received a copy of the Swaggerer of the Month Calendar featuring the male business and civic leaders who don stilettos to raise money for the nonprofit during the fun annual Stiletto Swagger at Freedom Park.