Sponsored by Paris Parker, Bodacious Bras for a Cause Puts the FUN in fundraising.

Paris Parker was around to be a part of Bras for a Cause 2015 at the Bodacious Bras for a Cause Luncheon and Auction, at the JW Marriot Hotel.

Originally seen on NOLA.com July, 2015


Back in 2011, Diane Lyons had a vision – an event that would bring women of all ages together for a weekend in New Orleans that focused on empowerment and, of course, fun. She named it FestiGals, with the motto: “Empowering & Enriching Women, New Orleans Style!”

One of the main events is the Bodacious Bras for a Cause Luncheon and Auction,presented by Paris Parker Salons and Spas, held this year on Saturday (June 13), a.k.a. FestiGals “Thriver Day,” at the JW Marriot Hotel. (“Thrivers” are women and men breast cancer survivors who are now thriving in their lives.)

Before the luncheon there was a “Get to Know Your Girls” Breakfast with Dr. Veronica Gillepsie, followed by the Bloody Mary Mixer, presented by Crystal Hot Sauce, where participants could imbibe on the early morning concoction while bidding on items in multiple raffles featuring hats, parties, gift bags, wine, and more. They could also visit vendors where their Stein Mart “passport” was stamped for the opportunity to win prizes courtesy of the store.

The highlight of the day was the luncheon, hosted honorary co-chairs Kim Sportand Barbara Turner Windhorst. Emcees Mark Romig and WVUE’s Nancy Parker kept the pace lively — from the Stein Mart Fashion show featuring women and men breast cancer survivors (including City Councilmember Nadine Ramsey) to the auction of specially created works of art (by artists Marita Crandle, Laurie Fleck, Kristina Larson, Paulette Lizano and Sara Segovia) and“Bodacious Bras” (one favorite was a take on the famous Carol Burnett/Bob Mackie Scarlett O’Hara curtain dress). Shannon Mullen of Save the Date Artistry created an on-site painting that was later auctioned off. Keynote speakerChristine Clifford, known for her “therapeutic humor,” entertained the audience with how to approach life’s challenges with a sense of humor, and HandCraft Artisan Collection Wines’ Cheryl Indelicato was the event’s special guest, with her wines served at lunch.

Proceeds of the luncheon benefits Breastoration and Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans.

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