ANNA MARIA – The Anna Maria Island Garden Club raised more than $10,000 during its annual fundraising fashion show and luncheon on Jan. 19.
The fashion show at The Center of Anna Maria Island featured community members as models, and some canine models too.
The featured fashions were provided by The Island Cabana, Pink & Navy, Island Charms, AMI Beach & Dog Supply and howluckyami.
AMI Garden Club member Deanie Sebring was in charge of this year’s event.
“The addition of many small stores rather than highlighting just one really brought the community together, and the addition of men and dogs to the show added a comedic factor,” she said.
“I thought it was a spectacular event. Everyone seemed to be so happy to be together again. We had over $7,000 in basket merchandise and gift certificates given to us by the stores and businesses on the Island. The vendors stepped up and gave so much, along with 11 local artists donating their art. The attendees had a fabulous time, enjoyed the lunch, aggressively bid on the art and purchased an immense amount of raffle tickets. The Center made it all possible by giving the Garden Club the space and the use of the tables and chairs,” Sebring said.
Led by Zan Fuller, Garden Club members prepared the luncheon that included chicken salad served on a croissant. Tickets were $30 per person, with an additional $3 donation from those who enjoyed the wine provided by The Sandbar restaurant.
