While their men were preparing for the big match against Ireland later that night, 100 or so women and a few gentlemen, of Henley and surrounds filled the O’Connor Hall in anticipation of the Fashion Show and High Tea.
The event surpassed all expectations: It was a sensation.
This was a fund raiser for Lions and Wide Horizon Hospice. Seventeen models, including three men, all locals, paraded in clothes that had been donated to the Hospice Boutique shop (around the corner from 1904) in three categories, namely smart casual, corporate and evening wear. Afterwards the clothes were sold (Auctioned if there was more than one wanting an item) Where else can you bag a Jo Borkett dress for R140, or a Daniel Hechter shirt for R150?
President of Lions, Anton de Bruin, was the brilliant compere and he was a snappy model too.
A motivational speech from Danelle Dreyer added to the value the guests got from the afternoon. Danelle, a Meyerton girl, is a finalist in the Mrs Grand South Africa contest.
Part of the success was due no doubt to the generous sponsors: too numerous to name them all, but the organisers would like special mention made of Colour Pot at Little Austria for the petunias and Debbie Firbank of Taste Budz who provided the “tea”
There was actually little interest in the tea part of the afternoon which appeared at the end of the proceedings. However the snacks presented on beautiful platters and cake stands were very much appreciated. They arrived in two courses, first savoury, later sweet. The Lions did quite nicely out of the bar takings.
Sneaking in at the end was Faf’s dad (aka Marinus van Es, one of the models) who flashed the audience in his patriotic speedo as he strutted his stuff along the catwalk (the HPA repurposed their stage to make a very professional ramp)
Those who missed the event need not despair: The unsold clothes as well as lots more are available at the Hospice Boutique from Thursdays to Saturdays – a beautiful shop for browsing. The little shop next door is also a hospice shop excellent for bargains.
Fashion Show and Ladies’ High Tea
