Annual CDTCA fundraiser returns, promises fashion and fun in Fox Chapel
Mar. 28—A revamped, fashion-themed fundraiser to benefit an Aspinwall Catholic school is returning from a two-year, covid-induced hiatus.
The 2023 Sip & Style Fashion Fundraiser supporting Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy is scheduled for May 7 at the Pittsburgh Field Club in Fox Chapel with the doors opening at 1:30 p.m. The event will begin at 2 p.m., with a live fashion show beginning promptly at 3 p.m.
"We're thrilled to bring this fun event back to our community and look forward to seeing you there," said co-organizer Jayna Varley-Ifft of Fox Chapel.
Fellow co-organizer Lauren Shepherd of Hampton said the event offers the three S's.
"Sip, shop and socialize," she said. "It's an elegant setting and a luxurious afternoon out without kids."
A $75 ticket includes a buffet lunch and a complimentary glass of champagne. A cash bar will be available. People can shop in the club ballroom at 14 pop-up boutiques representing local stores and view items for a silent auction.
This year, organizers hope to raise more than $20,000.
CDTCA is a nonprofit founded in 1925 serving an enrollment of about 200 students in grades K-8. The school is completely dependent on tuition and private philanthropy.
"That's why it's so vital for us to raise funds for the school," said Shepherd.
"Our school has a fundraising requirement of $105,000," Varley-Ifft said. "It costs $1.2 million to run CDTCA."
The event is open to those 14 and older. Organizers aim to keep the gathering casual, relaxed and most of all, fun.
"We want people to have a blast, and we're keeping everything local because they support us, and we support them," Shepherd said.
Featured pop-up boutiques include One Brilliant, Magnolia on Main, One Hope Wine, JoJos, Carte Blanche Home and Design, Suma, Trendy, So Me Artisan Ware and Jeweler's Studio, The Sol Collective, Brooks Diamonds, Whimsical Wardrobe Boutique and GO Groove On.
Runway fashions will feature styles from So Me, Brooks Diamonds, Jo Jo Shoes, The Sol Collective, Trendy, Groove On and be anchored by One Brilliant. People can shop directly from the fashion show.
One Brilliant Owner Erica Miller said she is "thrilled" to be partnering with CDTCA to organize the fashion show.
"It's a wonderful way to show all the new, spectacular colors and designs for this season, cobalt blue, fuchsia, melon orange, and the most fun is the "new" suiting women are mad about for the out-of-the-office lifestyle!"
Organizers are extending invitations beyond the Fox Chapel and Aspinwall communities and hope to sell a record number of tickets.
"Catholic schools are a different experience. It is a chance to be involved as a parent and have a family. Coming out of covid, not only us as parents but as a community it's so important to support and guide our young children because this will be their community one day. Now we're really taking this on to bring everyone together with this community-based event," Shepherd said. "Your support is critical to continuing the positive impact of Catholic education on thousands of children in the North Hills area.
The silent auction will include a golf outing in Hilton Head, S.C., and tickets to the Pittsburgh Ballet.
"Most of the silent auction items will be from local businesses though, " Shepherd said.
Joyce Hanz is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Joyce by email at jhanz@triblive.com or via Twitter .
