Candice O Beauty Blog: Couture ReCap: Drive 2 Thrive III "Discover Wonderland"

On Saturday October 16th I had the extreme pleasure of attending The Echelon Life, LLC's annual Drive 2 Thrive event. This was the third year where they combine fashion and philanthropy. It truly was THE fashion benefit of the season. Each year they find amazing designers, both national and local, and honor the philanthropic efforts of people in the community. This year's designers included: Reco Chapple of The Fashion Show as well as Carol Hannah and Jay Nicolas Sario of Project Runway fame. Local designers included Wendy Kaufmann and Bishme Cromartie of Baltimore. There was even a 12 year old designer from the Maryland Academy of Couture.

I was truly moved by the stories of the members of the community that received awards for their charity and philanthropic efforts. All recipients of awards didn't know that they were being watched and were truly giving of themselves. Those that received awards were Keion Carpenter, Aaron Maybin, Debbie Weinberger (founder and chairman of GEM: Girl's Empowerment Mission) and Malaka Fraiser.

I was volunteering backstage and got an insiders look of the show. From the selection of models, to fittings, hair and make up, I was there! What an amazing experience. The "Discover Wonderland" theme was based on Alice in Wonderland and the hair and make up crew did an excellent job bringing that vision to life. Port Discovery in Baltimore was transformed into a mystical wonderland that captivated the audience.

If you weren't able to attend the event you really missed out. But there is hope! You can attend next year on Saturday October 15, 2011. Make sure you purchase a ticket for the show WILL be sold out!

Here are some pictures from the event! More pictures to come