This year marked the 20th anniversary of Dress for Success and the 10th annual “Suits & Salads” luncheon. In honor of these milestones, DFSNO specially recognized Hope Encalade, founder of Dress for Success.
DFSNO is also celebrating its one-year anniversary in its new location at 1700 Josephine St. All programs are now facilitated in this location. Those programs include the signature suiting program, the Professional Women’s Group, the Capital One Career Center and Mentoring, as well as the facility’s ability to hold small special events, quarterly sales, board meetings and more.
Co-Chairs were Arie Roth Kaller, Martine Chaisson Linares and Tracee Dundas; Aimee Gowland was Honorary Chair and DFSNO Founder Hope Encalade was Honoree. Also recognized was Client of the Year, Shametria Gonzales and Volunteers of the Year Debbie Kerr Leathem and Celine Hannon. Dress for Success Worldwide CEO Joi Gordon served as the keynote speaker. Board President Meaghan Ryan Bonavita, was Mistress of Ceremonies.
The annual fashion show presented fabulous entertainment for more than 500 attendees. Rupa Jolly and Tina Dang walked for Angelique; Ingrid Thompson and Helise Madden walked for DFSNO; Martine Chaisson Linares and Jen Hale walked for Monomin; Carol Starr and Ayesha Motwani walked for Lukka; and Logan Howcott and Corey Thomas walked for Pilot & Powell.
Attendees were treated to rosé and white wine courtesy of Glazer’s Southern Wine & Spirits, and champagne courtesy of Moët Hennessy.
A silent auction offered hotel stays, jewelry, designer handbags, trips, spa packages and more. Friend & Company provided a raffle for a diamond necklace, and Porter Lyons did a jewelry pull helping to raise more than $2,000. Kendra Scott and Basics Underneath donated surprise giveaways to lucky attendees.
Each guest was gifted a DFSNO cookie courtesy of Apple Berry Delights. The program presented the largest attendance ever.
Event at a Glance
What: “2019 Suits & Salads Luncheon,” benefiting Dress for Success New Orleans
When: Friday, May 11
Where: Hyatt Regency
Board President and Mistress of Ceremonies Meaghan Bonavita and Joi Gordon
Rupa Jolly, Client of the Year Shametria Gonzales and Carol Starr
