On Saturday, August 17th, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona hosted its inaugural Wine, Women & Shoes event! The afternoon started off with boutique shopping with both local and national vendors, including Claire Flowers, Eclisse Beauty, Gina Cueto Jewelry, Gorgeous Things, JamesPaulCheung Cashmere, Kathy Kamei Designs, Lyn Sixty Jewelry Collection, State Forty Eight, and The String Bee. The best part? Each vendor donated 20% of their proceeds back to BBBSAZ! During the marketplace, shoppers also enjoyed complimentary glasses of sparkling wine and wine tasting provided by Tarbell’s Cha Cha Mouche. Coffee drinks were provided by Pop’s Coffee, and Gran Diamante Tequila offered tequila samples.
Guests then moved into the event space for a program that was kicked off by the event co-chairs, Amy Walters and Lena Spotleson. They introduced the afternoon’s emcee, Susan Casper, Arizona’s Family Anchor & Community Relations Manager. Susan had the pleasure of introducing the “Shoe Guys,” who helped to spread the word about the event and fundraised over $20,000! The top fundraiser, Mike Ristich, was crowned “King of Sole” on stage. BBBSAZ’s President and CEO, Luis Vega, then took to the stage and explained our mission and constant need for more mentors in the Valley. Wine, Women & Shoes’ own Hallie Young took guests through an exciting live auction and fund-a-need opportunity. Susan Casper rejoined us and announced the afternoon’s “Best in Shoe” contest winners.
Attendees then enjoyed a fashion show featuring contestants and titleholders from the Miss Arizona USA and the Mrs. Arizona pageants, as well as Big and Little Matches from BBBSAZ. The fashions were provided by Macy’s Scottsdale, and Bigs and Littles were surprised onstage when Macy’s announced that they were able to keep the fashion show outfits they chose! The event concluded with the drawing of our Key to the Closet winners! The Shoe Guys got back on stage and ushered everyone home with a dance!
Wine, Women & Shoes was a huge success, raising more than $170,000! All of the funds raised will help us serve more youth in our community by providing quality, adult mentors who care about them. We want to thank all community partners, attendees, and sponsors who made this event possible. We are blown away by the community’s support.