Maryam Fashion

An Afternoon of Fashion, Champagne and Opera benefiting the Breast Cancer Society was hosted by Cynthia Pace and Randi Winter at the Hycroft Mansion, home of the Vancouver University Women's Club. Arriving early, the Pink Orchid team with Andrea Shultz and Jordan Perry did the hair and makeup. Also volunteering were the backstage dressers, Pnina Shapiro, Jennifer Logan-Manzer and Ilana Berg.

Along with being a co-hosts, Pace also acted as he Show Stylist and MC while Winter also acted as a special presenter and fashion model. http://kerri-jo.smugmug.com/Maryam-Fashion Maryam Fashions are designed by Maryam Asgari, which Winter described her clothing as, "one of a kind creations that are not bound to any size, style or period of time."

Rupinder Kang, representing the CBC-BC/Yukon, opened the fashion event by sharing her own success story against cancer. Julie Nadalini sang a beautiful opera solo, Pucini's Quando Menbo, accompanied by Lesley on the piano.

Then came the models! Many of whom either had also battled breast cancer or were affected by it through close relatives. All sizes and ages of models showed off Maryam's formal dress collection that showed off everyone's beautiful figures. Maryam's father, Hassan Asgari, began the second half with a touching violin solo.

The next part showcased some of Maryam's ethnic collection, inspired by a variety of cultures and ages. She uses almost priceless antique fabrics, some of which are hundreds of years old.

Sponsors for this event included Henna by Saaj, who created the breast cancer symbols on the hands of the models, Lord's Shoes, handbags and accessories for the show, Pink Orchid, Shopper's Drug Mart, Soul Reflexions, Purdy's Chocolatier, Hit & Run Self Defense, Dr. Sam Winter, Dentist, Select Wine Merchants, Debee's, Vinyl, Di Morelli, Luxe Beauty Bar, Canadian Diamond Wholesalers and Black Velvet Collection, the ethnic jewellery for the show.