Heavenly Fashion Show

The San Marco Council of Catholic Women (SMCCW) yearly luncheon and fashion show had the theme “Angelic Threads,” a tribute to the angels in our community.

Allyson Richards, Event Chair, remarked that “these angels walk among us. They are like diamonds – precious and long-lasting, and you have to find them. Each one is unique. Angels in the community are often the unsung heroes, individuals who selflessly contribute to the well-being of others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, support, or guidance, these everyday angels play a vital role in fostering a sense of connection and harmony among community members. Their positive impact resonates beyond words, creating a supportive network that binds people together.”

Jean Gabrys, SMCCW President, thanked all the guests for attending and shared that “the proceeds from this event provide us the ability to support scholarships for our students pursuing college, trade schools and catholic high school and to support local charities in our community.”

Jean also reminded everyone to bid on the wonderful display of silent auction items and fabulous raffle baskets. Father Tim Navin, Pastor of San Marco Catholic Church, gave the blessing and invocation for the event. Back by popular demand is Carl Granieri of the Carl Granieri Orchestra, who provided the lovely piano interlude during the entire event.

Allyson quoted Vera Wang, a famous fashion designer, “A woman is never sexier than when she is comfortable in her own clothes. Today, we hope to show some new comfortable favorites.” She introduced the first model on the stage - an event favorite and local angel, Alex Schettino.

The angels modeled timeless, classic, and practical resort outfits courtesy of Beach Daisy, Patchington, and Kay’s on the Beach. These were the community “angels” showcasing the latest fashion trends: 

Jacqueline Aquilio – Marco Island Realtor

Barbara Britten, M.D., Physician/Internist – Naples

Lorraine Corva – Co-founder of AL’s Pals (the “L” in AL’s Pals)

Dianna Dohm - Executive Director for Marco’s Chamber of Commerce; President of Marco Island Fire Foundation; Chairwoman for NCH Urgent Care Committee

Tracy Frazzano – Marco Island Chief of Police

Maggie Gabrys – Physical Therapist for Encompass Health, Naples

Margo Heidenreich – Interim Principal, Marco Island Charter Middle School

Cindy Love Abounader – Chief Executive Officer at Greater Marco Family YMCA

Kaitlin Magdalener, MSN, RN-BC – Facility Manager of NCH Marco Island Urgent Care and a 2017 Leadership Marco Graduate

Theresa Mengelkoch – San Marco Catholic Church Office Assistant

Roz Minicozzi – Founder of Always There Home Health Care

Evelyn Rossetti-Ryan – Executive Director – Our Daily Bread Food Pantry

Maria Ruiz – San Marco Catholic Church Office Assistant

Pat Rutledge – Chief Executive Officer - for the Marco Island Historical Society

Cynthia Wolfe – President, Marco Newcomers Club

It was 45 years ago that Kay Folsom of Kay’s on the Beach started the fashion show tradition for San Marco’s CCW, and today, it is still going strong with a capacity of 300 guests and volunteers for a successful yearly event.

Cookie Bergen and Sue Holewenski came up with the Angelic Thread theme and did all the decoration planning. Lots of angels received their wings to make this event a success, from ticket sales, seating charts, and basket collecting to silent auction prizes, raffle sellers, setting and decorating the tables, and greeting guests at the door. 

The SMCCW thanks their members, volunteers, and supporters along with the generous business sponsors for the 2024 event. There were 81 generous business sponsors, and according to Amy Graebner, some of the 54 raffle baskets contained high-end women’s purses, cash prizes, gift cards, “mystery” boxes, and many more amazing gifts.