The theme, as described on the invite, was a mock wedding reception for the second annual Bridesmaids Bash at the Lido Beach Resort, co-chaired
by Shelby Tudor and Suzanne Anderson. The event, aimed at raising funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, attracted more than 100 eager guests, all of whom were determined to show their support for a charity close to their hearts — even if it meant wearing that peach taffeta bridesmaid dress one more time. In a fashion show highlighting the designs of Juno & Jove and Kelietza, local models and volunteers, including Molly Demeulenaere, Veronica Pastore, Sarah Grady and Rebecah Robinson took to the catwalk with ease, while delectable displays of wedding cakes and cupcakes designed by local bakeries were ready to be consumed. Awards were given out for Best Looking and Best Tasting Cake — both won by Pastries by Design Terrible Tux winner was Frank Maggio and the “Once Was Enough” honor for her dress was awarded to Trisha Stafford. Not sure if a congratulations is in order or not for the last two. Seen donning their best bridesmaid dress (that the bride swore they could wear again!) were Crista Cotton, Rochelle Nigri, Lyndsy McDonald, Pamela Gallagher, Dr. Harold Shinitzky and Michelle Butler, Suncoast regional director of the foundation. Art to art Creative hands were working fast and furiously to complete original works of art in just three hours, as Art Center Sarasota hosted its second Artists Work event, co-chaired by Kathleen McDonald, Lisa Berger, Louise Hamel and Gale Fulton Ross.
Kenny De Camp emceed the event. Participating artists including Joseph Melancon, Ray Peper, Isabelle Dunkerson, Daniel Petrov, Leon Middleton, Louise Hamel, Vicki Chelf, Charlie Meyrick, Carla O’Brien, Trisha Johnson, Barb Armstrong, Drew Strouble, Kathleen McDonald and up-and-coming young artists Truman Adams, Hunter Koski and Wesley Lock worked on paintings, collages and sculptures in teams of two with the final masterpieces raffled off.