With a touch of Parisian elegance and flair, Symphonettes recently held their annual fashion show, silent auction, and luncheon at the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove, with the theme being “An Afternoon in Paris.”
More than 250 members, family and friends gathered on Sunday, Mar. 8 to support local performing arts organizations, and to honor Symphonettes’ graduating high schools seniors. While the crowd enjoyed French treats such as quiche, crêpe, croissants, and café au lait, 23 graduating seniors walked down the runway showcasing both casual and elegant formal wear provided by Saks Fifth Avenue at Dadeland.
Under the leadership of Symphonettes president Kelly Moran, a senior at Ransom Everglades, a dedicated team of volunteers planned and worked for nearly a year to create this well-attended and successful event. Their effort and hard work paid off when the fashion show and auction brought in proceeds of over $30,000.
Fashion Show chairs Claire Landon, Sophia Esquenazi and Jeannie Szomstein coordinated the event. They designed invitations and creative centerpieces, and planned and catered the French brunch buffet. Auction chairs Mia Lennon, Kristen Coy, Katerine Birnberg, Emily Battle and Maite Gutierrez were responsible for supplying the auction with a large number of attractive items, generously donated by various local stores, restaurants, and members of Symphonettes.
Through the process of producing the event, the girls gained valuable knowledge about planning, fundraising, teamwork and leadership, and most importantly, about giving back to the community.
Symphonettes has been committed to benefiting art-related organizations in the community since 1966. This year 84 girls from 11 high schools have dedicated their time to ushering and serving community service shifts for organizations such as Fairchild Tropical Gardens, Miami Childrens Theatre, The Miami Symphony Orchestra, and South Florida Youth Symphony, among others.
In addition to community service, the members raise money to donate to arts programs in public schools, and to various local music and performance related groups with a focus on aspiring young artists. The Coral Gables Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, serves as Symphonettes’ fiscal sponsor, enabling the group to function as a nonprofit organization. The annual Fashion Show and Silent Auction supply the majority of Symphonettes’ donated funds.
For more information about Symphonettes send email to kellymoran991@gmail.com.
