The annual “Bodacious Bras for a Cause” brunch was the centerpiece of the seventh annual FestiGals New Orleans Women’s Weekend Experience. The live auction and Bodacious Bra Challenge raised more than $31,000 for the Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans (CAGNO) and Breastoration to provide support and meaningful services to women in their treatment and recovery.
Sandra Herman and Jean Rice served as Event Chairs. Honorary Chairs included Gayle Benson, Sue Ellen Canizaro, Angela Hill and Paulette Stewart. Zoe McLellan of Heart Screams, Speaker, Mom, Writer & Actress from “NCIS: New Orleans,” “Suits,” “Dirty Sexy Money” and “JAG” was the guest speaker.
The brunch included a Thriver Fashion Show by Stein Mart featuring 12 models thriving in their cancer journey. Hair and makeup by Biba Islah Salon, Claudine Hope’Perret and the Aveda Institute. Joan Ingram, Stein Mart Style Coordinator, shared each model’s story and triumph, followed by a stylish narration of fashions, as she walked the runway. Dr. Jules Walters and Dr. Jay Saux served as escorts to the stage.
Cumulus personality Dino Hanson of Old School 106.7 was emcee. Music by was provided by Noble DJ Nola with entertainment by the Rolling Elvis Jailhouse Rockers.
Chuck Mutz, “The Black Tie Auctioneer,” conducted the live auction of the top three fundraising bras from the Bodacious Bra Challenge and original works by six local artists depicting the cancer journey theme: Luis Colmenares with metal, Simon of New Orleans with oil on wood, Molly Kimball and Kristin Malone with mixed media, John Hodge with pottery, Joyce Laporte with acrylic on canvas and Connie Born with mixed media. Kristy Oustalet of Color Me NOLA created a live event painting.
Approximately 330 attendees joined “Bodacious Bras for a Cause.” The FestiGals New Orleans Women’s Weekend Experience attracted approximately 2,000 women to more than 20 events throughout the weekend.
Event at a Glance
What: “Bodacious Bras for a Cause,” benefiting FestiGals
When: Saturday, June 24
Where: JW Marriott
