Yesterday evening I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of an amazing event entitled Girl’s Night Out with Pearls for Lupus, held at Charming Charlie located right outside The Triangle Town Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.  Charming Charlie is an American retailer, established in 2004 that sells women’s apparel and accessories, including jewelry, sunglasses, scarves, purses, wallets, clothes, shoes, and other items.

The fabulous Charming Charlie staff

The event which was a fundraiser to raise money for The Lupus Foundation, was spearheaded by Crystal Harkless, the daughter of my good friend Carolyn Horton.  Carolyn is one of the founding members of “Pearls for Mommy Book Club”, which began in 1999 as a group of women who loved to read and wanted to share that love of reading, coupled with their thoughts and insights, with others.   Although I’ve been a member for years, I must admit I don’t always have time to stay active in the club; however, the Pearls kindly allow me to stay 🙂   Most recently the Pearls became famous, as they were featured in The News and Observer on Triangle Reads (What local book clubs are up to).  Here’s the link: http://www.newsobserver.com/entertai…/…/article15450053.html.

When I was asked to participate and provide fashion advice for the event, I graciously accepted.  Carolyn as well as several other close friends are fighting Lupus, so I have a personal interest in helping to raise money and more awareness about the disease.  Last month at my First Annual Big Hat Brunch, I decided to feature Lupus as my charity of choice.  Carolyn attended and talked to the ladies as well as provided knowledge and answered questions.

The Girl’s Night Out with Pearls for Lupus event featured shopping at Charming Charlie of course, make overs and tips by Dena Bruton, make up artist for Reveal Cosmetics, as well as a free photo shoot giveaway to one lucky winner at Rick Crank Photography, which is directly across from Charming Charlie.  Delicious light hors d’oeuvres were also provided.  Charming Charlie graciously donated 10% of all purchases during the event to the Lupus Foundation, and gave $10 off every $50 purchase.

Crystal Harkless and mother Carolyn Horton

Crystal Harkless, The event organizer

Julie Conner

The talented Ebony Fulton of Ramah Fotography shopping for a new handbag. Her photography is spectacular! Find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ramahfotos?fref=ts

I couldn’t resist a rare opportunity to shoot the talented Rick Crank of Rick Crank Photography. This was priceless! Find him at http://www.rickcrankphotography.com/

Shannon Ammons, Reveal Cosmetics model striking a pose

Reveal Cosmetics in the house

Before photo of Dena Bruton of Reveal Cosmetics working on Crystal Harkless’ new make over. Find Dena on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RevealCosmetics?fref=ts

The results of Crystal’s newly beat face. Doesn’t she look gorgeous?

From left to right…me, Carolyn Horton, Crystal Harkless, and Dena Bruton of Reveal Cosmetics

The event was an excellent way to not only raise money, but raise awareness of Lupus.  If you would like to help with this cause, you can participate in the Walk to End Lupus Now™, which is a half day of fun, food, and support with activities for the whole family, to celebrate the participants’ hard work in fundraising and advocacy.  The walk will be held at the location below.

Walk to End Lupus Now™ Raleigh
April 27, 2014
NC State University, Centennial Campus
Check in: 1:30 PM – Walk: 3:00 PM

You can join Carolyn Horton’s team here http://walktoendlupus.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1128576&lis=1&kntae1128576=7517364E716D4F4E8865DA678E344CA0&supId=419857862&emaillogid=8211935206.

I hope to see you there!

Love,

The Ultimate Fashionista