It all started last month in Palm Beach when Danielle Rosse, owner of popular restaurant Oceans 234, and I were guests at a luncheon. Designer Alvin Valley, also known as “The King of Pants” by the New York Times, gathered a focus group at hot spot Le Bilboquet, in anticipation of the launch of his first ever fragrance collection. Surrounded by fabulous women, chatting and sharing many laughs while taking in the distinctive aromas of perfume, is what sparked the initial idea to host a Palm Beach-inspired luncheon.
Both realizing that we hardly have these opportunities to truly connect with others at fundraising events because they tend to be massive (and for good reason), Danielle and I were determined to change that. Plus, all the elements needed for a lovely event simply fell into place. First and foremost, Danielle made the inspiring decision to dance in this year’s Boca Ballroom Battle to fundraise for the George Snow Scholarship Fund. Having been approached to participate over the years and repeatedly turning down the chance to twirl on the dance floor, this year was different thanks to Danielle’s daughter. “She just made the dance team and I wanted to show her I could accomplish a passion while impacting the community,” says Danielle.
As for the fashion, we had our wonderful designer friend Alvin who could not wait to showcase his lifestyle brand of beautifully tailored clothing, handbags, shoes, eyewear, hats and more, to a new group of stylish ladies. Last, but certainly not least, Oceans 234 served as the ideal beachfront venue.
With every detail in place, we welcomed 60 amazing friends last week who were ready to have fun, relax, and shop the Alvin Valley pop up for a few hours. “I was so inspired by all the women that joined. They were so chic and elegant. I know that some clients from Boca Raton have been trying to get me to do something in the area and I’m so happy we did,” says Alvin. The icing on the cake was sample testing a handful of fragrances and then collectively selecting the third scent to the upcoming collection.
It was a beautiful breezy afternoon surrounded by camaraderie and great vibes as guests simultaneously learned about a fashion designer and an important local nonprofit to support. The fundraising season is coming to a close, but it’s always in season to gather and support one another. Cheers to all the Boca Ballroom Battle dance participants who will be training during the summer months for their live performances on September 23 in front of an audience of over 900.
To learn more about local nonprofit George Snow Scholarship Fund and Boca Ballroom Battle, visit https://scholarship.org/ and https://www.ballroombattle.com/
For more from Olivia Hollaus, click here.
