Fashion fundraisers

Fashion for a cause. It’s the thread that connects two upcoming fundraisers for two high-profile local institutions.

Chateau Vaudreuil will serve as the luxurious backdrop for the Lakeshore General Hospital Foundation’s first fashion show Sept. 17, and for the West Island Palliative Care Residence’s annual gala Oct. 1. “All proceeds go to the hospital, for equipment or wherever the need is greatest; so it benefits the community overall,” said benefit co-ordinator Valerie Cousineau.

The show will be an animated affair. “It will be hosted by media personalities Orla Johannes and Mark Shaloub, and many of our 23 volunteer models are well-known on the West Island, including Pierrefonds/Roxboro borough mayor Monique Worth, Hudson Mayor Elizabeth Corker, and Baie d’Urfé Mayor Maria Tutino,” she said.

They will model women’s fall and winter fashions, ranging from casual to formal wear. “During cocktail hour at 6 p.m., an hour before the show, we’ll have a Live Body Art demonstration. Four models will be painted from head to toe by a group of makeup artists who recently graduated from LaSalle College.”

A highlight of the evening will be a performance by the award-winning Quebec recording artist Jacynthe.

A DJ will keep things lively and there will be finger foods and other refreshments available. “And if Mother Nature co-operates, we’ll end the night in a spectacular way,” Cousineau said.

Tickets, at $100 a piece, are on sale at the hospital. Volunteers are also needed to work behind the scenes on the 17th. Call 514-630-2081.

Seasonal apparel for men and women will be showcased in the Palliative Care Residence’s seventh fashion fundraiser two weeks later. “All models are staff of friends of the residence. Six of the male models are employees of the CIBC, which has been a big supporter. The Boutique de Mariage and Jones New York in Kirkland are among the local designers who have also lent their support from the early days,” said co-ordinator Andrea Gordon, adding” in the past four years alone we’ve raised over $70,000. “New this year is a raffle with three big prizes, and guests will also have an opportunity to buy the jewellery and makeup the models will be wearing.”

Emcee’s include Laurie and Olga from CJAD radio, and there will be two live vocal performances. Hors d’oeuvres and other goodies will also be served.

Regular tickets are $50, while VIP tickets at $100 seat guests closer to the stage at reserved tables. “They also get their own ‘butler,’” Gordon said.

About half of the tickets are already sold.

Regular tickets can be purchased at the centre on Andre Brunet St.; VIP tickets and more information can be obtained by calling 514-693-1718.