Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Fundraiser for Climbing Toward Confidence


Announcement in this week's Mountain Xpress:


Conscious Party: Benefits & fundraisers
Here comes the bride (for a good cause)
by Hal L. Millard in Vol. 15 / Iss. 24 on 01/07/2009

An upcoming event promises to help promote local businesses amid an increasingly down economy while giving a boost to a charity that assists at-risk girls.

Hosted by WNC Magazine and Studio Flora Diva, The Bridal Party will kick off at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, at Shay Brown Events (21 Wall St. in downtown Asheville. The party will raise funds for Climbing Toward Confidence, a program that targets 7th- and 8th-grade girls in an effort to reduce the risk of sexual assault. In the program, mentors utilize rock climbing as a way to build the girls’ self-esteem and to improve their confidence and communication skills.

But the event will also focus on bolstering the local wedding industry (Asheville is among the top wedding destinations in the nation, the organizers report). Brides to be can consult some of the area’s top wedding professionals; enjoy fashion shows from Terra Diva, Spiritex and Mitchell’s Tuxedos; and learn from local wedding planners, florists and event designers.

In addition, ticketholders will be eligible to win a bevy of prizes, including porcelain works from Hofman Studios, beauty consultations from Luminous You and an array of gift certificates from local businesses. Guests will also receive complimentary gift bags and be treated to appetizers, wine, martinis and entertainment.

Tickets ($20 in advance, $40 at the door) can be purchased online at http://www.wncmagazine.com