On April 18th, 2013, Prestige du Monde (PdM) and Kahlo Salon hosted "Bienvenue Printemps: a Springtime Benefit" took place at Kahlo Salon in the Norwood Park neighborhood of Chicago. The evening soiree brought high-profile guests together for a business rendezvous to raise funds for the American Diabetes Association. Miss Heart of Illinois 2013 Marisa Buchheit, Miss Northern Illinois Lauren Kudsi, Miss Illinois Latina Vanessa Cruz, and Nuestra Belleza Latina 2013 Finalist Ruth Diaz were some of the notable ladies of the evening who brought a bit of glitz and glam to the benefit.

From 7pm-10pm, guests began to pour in numbers to raise funds for a generous cause while trying decadent treats by Estrella Negra, Sandy Cakes Couture Confections, The Bungalow Cafe, Chipotle, and Noodles and Company.

Le Prestige du Monde (PdM) and Kahlo Salon diligently organized their efforts to showcase local businesses, high-caliber individuals, and promote sustainability in an ever-globalizing world.

Amorn Buchheit and Marisa Buchheit took a moment to pose for the camera. In addition to being a philanthropic individual, Marisa is a talented soprano who is a fervid advocated of implementing the arts in public education.

Ruth Diaz, Lauren Kudsi, and Vanessa Cruz strike a pose. The 3 ladies, in addition to being the image of glam in Chicago and beyond, are dedicated to improving the lives of others through their active participation in the arts, entertainment, and local community initiatives across Chicago.

Guests enjoyed meeting old friends and making new ones while enjoying rum-infused tres leches cupcakes from Sandy Cakes Couture Confections while sipping on a glass of champagne.

Jus d'Amour Soy Candles by Los Angeles-based Parfumes Mercedes had a very notable presence throughout the evening. The candle's Tahitian vanilla delight graced the ambiance as attendees made their way through the venue.

A diverse-array of succulent wine, beer, and spirits were available for attendees to savor while mingling with business leaders, fashionistas, and community organizers.

Jus d'Amour perfumes, including the signature men's fragrance - Legend, were a part of the highly-sought luxury raffle, which included both decadent fragrances.

La Chambre d'Anit's Tina la Diamantina collection had a strong presence throughout the evening. The hand-knit couture scarf, valued at $95, was one of the luxury items raffled at 9:30pm.

Vanessa and Ruth have a moment with Creative Director Jorge G. Zavala as they discuss the importance of active engagement with both local and national initiatives. Both ladies wore couture designs by La Chambre d'Anit.

The ladies of Kahlo Salon took a moment to capture the magic unfolding throughout the evening. Kahlo Salon does an exceptional job at providing beauty services to Chicagoland while also giving back by engaging with students, educators, and business leaders.

Chanteuse Maria Jose, Global Fashionista Ogilvie, and Couture Designer Martina Gonzalez enjoyed a glass of almond champagne while participating in the luxury raffle.

Annelly Quiroz and Tiffany Boller Guyton mingled with guests and were all-smiles throughout the evening. The ladies of Premier3, in addition to being beautiful, believe in the importance of giving back through educational initiatives creating well-rounded curriculum for children.

The Chicago floods, thunder, and whirlwinds did not keep these cuties from enjoying an evening of delicious food, succulent champagne, and extravagant goodies from the lux raffle. Additionally, these fine ladies also awaited the moment they would receive their swag-bags filled with goodies from Kahlo Salon, Jus d'Amour, M&J Products, and DaTo Marketing.

Marisa discusses her platform on incorporating the arts in education while mentioning her next event in May. Our Miss Heart of Illinois 2013 is an active-believer in fostering music, art, and fashion in everyday life.

Guests enjoyed the opportunity to mingle with the notable figures throughout the evening while also enjoying a succulent meal while savoring premium champagne. Attendees participating in the luxury raffle were also anticipating the diverse prizes offered, including health and wellness products from M&J Products, a charity classique mani-pedi from Savon Spa Lakeview, a $100 gift voucher to Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants, a 100% Swarovski crystal bracelet (valued at $350) from Tina la Diamantina, an oh-la-la makeover by Kahlo Salon's very own Veronica Avila, teeth-whitening service by Lee Dental, Jus d'Amour and Legend Parfumes by Parfumes Mercedes, and the VIP experience for 2 adults to Cancun, Mexico by DaTo Marketing and Travalati.

PdM and Kahlo Salon would like to thank all of the wonderful guests, sponsors, and participants who made Bienvenue Printemps a success. The evening brought together a wide-range of high-caliber individuals seeking to make a difference in their surroundings while having an amazing time.

Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine soirée.

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director, Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director

On April 13th, 2013, the Junior Board of Mercy Home hosted the 6th Annual Have Mercy! Spring Gala at the Trump International Hotel and Tower. An evening filled with decadent hors d'oeuvres, savory wine and spirits, and plenty of dancing brought together a philanthropic, upwardly-mobile crowd to raise funds for the Legacy of Learning Campaign.

Guests, upon arrival to the 16th floor of the Trump Tower, were greeted by members of Mercy Home's Junior Board and encouraged to help themselves to the diverse wine and spirit offerings of the evening.

A wide-range of hors d'oeuvres were available for attendees to try, including miniature ice cream cones stuffed with spicy tuna: a spicy tuna cone of sorts.

Guests came together Saturday evening to raise funds for a wonderful cause while reacquainting themselves with old friends and making new ones.

Over 400 young professionals from across Chicagoland made an appearance and found themselves delighted by the evenings offerings. These two young women made note that their favorite part of the evening was meeting new friends and sipping on a few glasses of wine in a sophisticated space.

Guests enjoyed an evening of dining, dancing, and entertainment at the spectacular Trump International Hotel Chicago. These young women were taking a break from hitting the dance floor when PdM spotted them discussing the importance of giving.

This group was all smiles for the camera!

The evening's attendees, which included members of Mercy Home's Junior Board, were proud of the gala's success.

A diverse array of silent auction and raffle prizes were present throughout the evening, including autographed sports memorabilia and spa packages.

In addition to the delicious hors d'oeuvres present throughout the evening, decadent desserts were a part of the evening's highlights. One guest stated that the pastry offerings were simply "divine".

This year’s proceeds benefited the Legacy of Learning Campaign, a $20 million sustaining fund that will ensure children’s academic prosperity for generations to come.

The Junior Board of Mercy Home gives young professionals a special opportunity to aid children in crisis. Their goal is to promote the mission of Mercy Home by engaging young professionals through social, volunteer and fundraising activities.

Members, in addition to having a wonderful time, had opportunities to network with other professionals from diverse backgrounds and industries who share a similar concern for children in crisis.

As the evening developed, guests decided to both mingle and boogie on the dance floor. While guests were looking forward to attending the official after-party at Cuvée, many were not able to do so: the club denied entrance to many Have Mercy! Gala attendees.

In addition to supporting programs facilitating the welfare of children in the Chicagoland area, Mercy Home encourages their youth to understand and accept civic and community responsibilities.

This happy couple was all-smiles as they made their way towards the dance floor.

Jim Marrese, Director of Corporate Sponsorship at Mercy Home, described the importance of the Junior Board to PdM. "It's a great time and the energy they bring is always for a good cause."

As the clocks began to near midnight, guests took the time to get a few pictures with some of their close friends and professional acquaintances.

While the after-party was a flop due to Cuvée's negative attitude toward Mercy Home and their gala's guests, the Junior Board knew how to let loose and throw a successful event with a philanthropic mission. In addition to raising funds benefiting youth programs, the crowd made a true effort to understand the disparities children encounter daily in Chicago while discussing manners to foster positive changes.

Une soirée remplie de plaisir et de la philanthropie vaut en profiter.

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director
Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director

The steps leading towards the entrance of the Adler Planetarium were adorned with lights, graced with the backdrop of one of the most beautiful views of Chicago's skyline, and charmed with the joie de celebracion that filled the air as anticipation for Entrepreneur's Eve 2012 made its way to the minds of young, affluent guests.

Entrepreneur's Eve 2012 broughts some of the city's top entrepreneurial folks - and their gorgeous arm candy - to toast to the end of a wonderful year and the welcoming of 2013. Upon arriving to the Adler Planeterium's primary entrance, attendees were greeted by the smiling faces of individuals waiting to accomodate all those wishing to ring in the new year in style. Funds from the evening benefited the H Foundation – a foundation dedicated to raising funds and awareness to cure cancer in partnership with the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

Guest lists, which were separated into VIP and general admission, were organized efficiently and the check-in process commenced quite smoothly. Ryan Beshel, the evening's gracious host, warmly greeted attendees, directed folks to the VIP lounge sponsored by Hennessy Black, and encouraged everyone to eat, savor the succulent cocktails, and bask in the holiday ambiance.

Benjamin Newby, Brand Architect for Hennessy Black, was a vibrant ball of energy that mingled with guests, surveyed the boutique bar to ensure that staff members had access to guests' favorite items, and managed to smile pretty for the camera as the who's who of entrepreneur society in Chicago made their way through the nouveau chic VIP lounge and unto the dance floor.

The decor, mood, and ambiance fit for a star (or a planet) was divine and reflective of the affluent and style-conscious crowd.

Ladies and gents found themselves flattered by the amount of photographers present ready to have them strike a pose and look joli jolie as flashes from various angles created a light-show of sorts only comparable to the night stars.

In addition to the one-of-a-kind cocktails filled with a generous amount of elixir, guests had the opportunity to enjoy a casino-style ambiance where blackjack and poker were often the game of choice.

Whether one found themselves interested in a Hennessy Black cocktail or a unique blend of whiskey-lemonade with champagne, it was a shot of the same: smiling, beautiful faces. Amy, one of the evening's guests, noted that the amount of food and premium liquour present was simply "divine".

The evening's diverse elixirs were enough to wow guests and prepare them for an amazing 2013. However, the food was also delectable and consisted of a diverse set of goodies, which included churros and empanadas.

As the clocks began to strike 10:30pm, 11pm, and so forth, guests couldn't help but indulge in premium cocktail offerings of the evening. Pictured above, one of PdM's favorite cocktails include this vibrant mix of Hennessy Black, tapioca diamonds, topped with champagne d'allure. Oh, la la!

While the VIP dance floor initially appeared to serve as a meeting point for hotties in cocktail dresses and studs in the finest fit suits, as the clocks came closer to midnight l'air d'essence became vibrant and filled with boogie. Guests celebrated good friends, amazing music - which included the high-energy beats by DJ Dolo, and a decadent lounge that reflected one's surroundings at the Adler Planetarium - stars, stars, stars.

Whether one decided to sip a ginger and whiskey cocktail topped with lime juice while getting their dance on, people watch as beautiful ladies in the latest creations mingled with girlfriends, or enjoy one last bite of that delish vegetarian empanada before that highly-anticipated midnight kiss, Entrepreneur's Eve 2012 delivered an ecstatic good time surely to be remembered (and talked about) throughout 2013. What's more, proceeds from the evening's decadence went to a noteworthy cause. Beauties, premium cocktails, some poker, a little bit of dancing, and a whole lot of doing good? We'll toast to that!

Cheers!

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director
Omar Vazquez | Photography

On December 13th, 2012, some of Chicago's trendiest industry folk, socialites, business elites, and insiders came together to join Le Prestige du Monde to raise funds for the American Heart Association at Y Bar Chicago. "La Joie de Vivre" - PdM's holiday benefit - included very special appearances by notable socialites, including Miss Illinois US 2012 Nancy To, Global Fashionista Ogilvie, Miss Chicago 2012 Marisa Buchheit, the Polish American Association's Special Events Associate Director Barbara Sobecka, and many other notable society insiders.

With Sum Lau, Jerry Rodriguez, Omar Vazquez, and Xavier LeBlanc as the official film and photography team, the event's developments commenced on point - ready to be captured to its fullest. MUA Angelo Romero used his abilities to turn already gorgeous young women into captivating femmes.

The evening began with the highly-anticipated cocktail reception from 7pm-8pm with sponsored alcoholic delights by EC Charro Tequila, Indio Beer, and Aged 2 Perfection decadent wines. Guests had the opportunity to sample a wide-range of fusion tequila cocktails and succulent wine while indulging in savory delights from Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Throughout the evening, guests representing many of Chicago's top designer brands, labels, and modeling agencies mingled while tickets for PdM's luxury raffle were sold by the official evening couple - Paula and Pete. Prizes for the luxury raffle included exclusive treatments by Savon Spa, premium wine from Aged 2 Perfection, a pair of certified authentic boxing gloves signed by Floyd Mayweather and Juan Manuel Marquez (valued at $600), a 4-hour photoshoot - including loft usage and wardrobe changes - with MoHall Loft, one on one photography sessions with the talented Anthony Phong Tran of Third Party Photography, a hand-crafted, Swarovski crystal bracelet (valued at $350) by Tina la Diamantina, pizza and beer soiree from D'Agostino's Pizza, a couture women's evening gown by J.LF designs, special organic tea goodies from Bello Tea, and a $100 gift certificate to Y Bar, among other exquisite goods.

The magic of the evening unfolded - with guests enjoying the presence of old friends while excitingly making new ones - as house goddess CZBoogie created an ambiance of nouveau chic with her dynamic sounds.

Guests had the opportunity to enjoy a cocktail - or 3 - while viewing some of the latest designs by La Chambre d'Anit and J.LF modeled by gorgeous national and international models. The dresses, which one admirer considered "daring with a touch of grace", are made by local designers to fit the modern and style-conscious Chicago woman.

Y Bar Chicago, which is located in Chicago's trendy River North district, combines elegance with style. Attendees ensured that they wore their very best to raise funds for a good cause while admiring the decor (and the beautiful ladies gracing the event).

Petite mignon swag bags - which included decadent vegan desserts by Chef Lucia and goodies from Bello Tea and Kahlo Salon - were given to guests as raffle winners were announced. Models handed out the goodies while thanking guests for their support and generosity.

"La Joie de Vivre", which was showcased by Scene Chicago and Extra Newspaper among several other media outlets, has been called one of the "most fun and vibrant benefits suited well for the (holiday) season".

As the evening came to an end, guests kept the room filled with laughter, smiles, and plenty of joie de vivre that came from the heart - or from a few glasses of premium tequila.

Le Prestige du Monde would like to thank Y Bar Chicago and all liquor, food, luxury raffle, and individual sponsors for making "La Joie de Vivre" a possibility. A very special merci beaucoup goes to the amazing crowd who came out to support a night of culinary and fashion plaisanterie while raising funds for the American Heart Association of Chicago.

Stay tuned for our series of très attendu events coming in 2013.

Until then, à bientôt, chérie.

By Rebecca Faber | Society Reporter

Taking 90/94 Southbound on the way to Bevy on December 6 was a little more beautiful, cleaner, and enjoyable thanks to Chicago Gateway Green. This non-profit organization’s mission is “dedicated to greening and beautifying Chicago’s expressways, gateways, and neighborhoods”. If any of you Chicagoans have noticed these little signs with the leaf along the expressway surrounded by great landscaping, Chicago Gateway Green has been there. Their signature leaf symbol also made an appearance at the Green Ribbon Gala on December 6th, as the proceeds of the event were said to go to this deserving non-profit.

The gala began with a cocktail hour, featuring drinks made with Pama. This pomegranate liqueur was flavorful, not too strong, and a great match for the fashion that surrounded us. Elevated on risers, human manikins were sporting outfits from local green designers. These stoic models added great ambiance to the event while hungry patrons waited for the advertised hors d’oeuvres by Karyn’s on Green that didn’t seem to make an appearance.

Soon enough, there were more cameras than people in the room, generating much anticipation for the epic and serious fashion show.

Ms. Illinois, Amber Podell, fulfilled her hosting duties by introducing the four eco-friendly designers through the show. As the first few outfits of the first designer’s collection made their way down the runway, many whispers were heard. The man next to me was one of the quiet ones, but his head was shaking from left to right. The use of organic fabrics was just not visually pleasing and models were equally as amateur. If anyone in the room was on the fence about supporting the green movement, these designs may have made them run for the hills, or the bar, in this case. Within the course of a few designs, the bartenders seemed to be become very busy.

Once the third designer hit the runway, it was like a little piece of heaven entered the room. Silk Utopia’s collection consisted of silk gowns with clean lines and vibrant colors. Each gown’s fabric was colorful and unique, but not too over the top. The cuts were made with enough design to be interesting, but simple enough to be classic. The models were strutting these designs on the runway with confidence and grace, making it easy to imagine any female happy to wear one of these gowns.

The end of the fashion show marked the end of Amber’s hosting duties, and rehearsed lines. It was difficult to watch her wrap up the show by staring down at note cards filled with lines that made her stumble consistently for a good few minutes. It caused palpable discomfort throughout the room until she put down the mic, but all was well once the music started again.

Overall, the Green Ribbon Gala appeared to be a success. The packed room ensured that money was raised for Chicago Gateway Green, helping create the sustainability of aesthetically pleasing rides down 90/94, as well as many more miles of Chicago road.

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director, Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director

The DeWitt Place at 900 North DeWitt at Delaware in Chicago, Illinois held their Annual Holiday Party on December 4, 2012 to honor Chicago photographers.

This year’s theme was "Christmas Around the World" with The Snow Queen, Aya Jackson guarding the entrance in her gown and was produced by Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago. Adel Shaw, Vice President of Red Carpet Concierge directed this holiday festival with an informal fashion show, featuring local Chicago designers.

Photographers and media were invited to the VIP reception for a Red Carpet Welcome that began at 5:30pm with guests arriving from 6pm until 9pm. “Our Chicago Photographers capture the soul of the city”, said Adel Shaw, “we are honored to welcome them to DeWitt Place”.

An exclusive informal fashion show gave a unique look into a variety of styles along with special guests and designing vendors.

An open bar was available on the first floor while a wide-range of appetizers were presented throughout the lobby, lounge, and several studios and suites.

Models walked throughout the room in style as they showcased a variety of local designers' talent.

The Snow Queen, Aya Jackson, received attention from attendees.

Shari Duffy (L) of Ladies Night Chicago sharing a moment with guests.

The host with the most, Sandra Smith-Doghmi, offering the mic to a lovely young woman decked in haute couture attire.

The evening was filled with a diverse array of guests representing a wide-range of industries. Sandra Smith-Doghmi really knew how to bring an evening to a close by thanking guests for their hard-work and effort throughout the year and by encouraging them to continue bringing their best in 2013. A toast to that!

By Ogilvie Zavala | Arts Editor
Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director, Sum Lau | Photographer

On Friday, November 16, 2012, Girls on the Run-Chicago (GOTRC) celebrated its commitment as a non-profit organization to helping over 27,000 girls engage in a healthy lifestyle at its 13th Annual Sparkle & Shine Gala at the Drake Hotel. Funds raised from the event will go towards scholarships for participants of GOTRC and support program expansion initiatives in diverse communities in the Chicagoland area.

During the Sparkle & Shine Gala, GOTRC hosted live music and several silent auctions. A few items that were auctioned included a weekend in a Porsche Panamera, a private flight in a WWII plane, tickets to the Jay Leno Show, Windy City Live, The New Ricki Lake Show, dinner for two at Girl & the Goat, and several other wonderful items.

Throughout the night, attendees had the privilege of enjoying a decadent selection of wine, beer, signature drinks, and fabulous hors d'oeuvres. Additionally a photo booth was staged near the entrance of the gala, with long lines of guests trickling in and out with giant smiles and laughter.

GOTRC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Using a fun, experience-based after school curriculum which creatively integrates running, the innovative program for girls in grades 3-8 combines training for a 5k event with interactive lessons that encourage positive emotional, social, mental and physical development. The program culminates in a 5k event, which gives the girls a tangible sense of achievement as well as the framework for setting and achieving life goals, athletic or otherwise.

“We have just finished conducting our annual evaluation which has shown, with statistical significance, that girls who complete the program have a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, a healthier body image and an understanding of what it means to be physically and emotionally healthy.” Said Kristen Kainer-Turner, GOTRC Senior Program Manager.

Jeanne Wrenn, GOTR Chicago Board President, mentioned her excitement for the evening. "GOTR Chicago does so much to help girls across the board. Our annual gala is very exciting." There are two programs that comprise GOTR Chicago: Girls on the Run, designed for girls in grades 3 through 5; and Girls on Track, designed for girls in grades 6 through 8. Led by volunteer coaches, Girls on the Run-Chicago’s program is divided into three core concepts, each of which encompasses roughly a four-week period.

With a vibrant mix of guests, appetizers, cocktails, and goals, the Girls On The Run Chicago's 13th Annual Sparkle and Shine Gala was truly a key momentum for 2012. A guest at the event captured the evening's essence quite well. "We came here to raise funds for the girls, our girls, the future of our city," stated Meredith, one of the sponsor's guests. "While all the funds are going to charity, we are also having a great time. I'm glad I came out for this one."

Cathy Kruse, Communications Manager for GOTR Chicago, Jeanne Wrenn, and the entire GOTR Chicago team's diligence and effort were present. Great job, ladies: we look forward to the next one.

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director
Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director, Paul Ko | Media Contributor

The Polish American Association hosted it's 90th Anniversary Gala and Benefit Auction at The Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago on November 10th, 2012. 

The evening began with a sophisticated cocktail reception with notable guests, including the evening's honorees Arie and Bozena Zweig, major supporters of charitable and cultural organizations in the United States, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago Paulina Kapuscinska, Global Fashionista and Designer Ogilvie, and Justice of the Appellate Court of Illinois Aurelia Pucinski, among other high-profile individuals.

Arie and Bozena Zweig were honored and recognized for their generous philanthropic contributions to the Polish and Jewish community. The Zweigs are recognized supporters of diverse organizations within the United States, Poland, and Israel. Founder and CEO of R.A.Zweig, Inc., Arie Zweig most recently was awarded a special commendation by the President of Poland during the President’s visit to Chicago. Bozena Zweig is an accomplished musician who pursued a successful career in Poland prior to her move to the United States. Currently, she is a member of the Polish American Association Board of Directors in addition to her other memberships and activities.

The Annual Gala is the Polish American Association's largest fundraising event of the year, with all proceeds benefiting the organization’s 28 programs serving 3,000 clients monthly. Currently in its 90th year as an organization, the Polish American Association was established by a group of prominent businessmen to help immigrant families. From an initial focus on youth, the PAA has greatly expanded its operations and now offers 28 programs in four major areas: clinical services, support services, education/employment, and immigration. The organization has extensive partnerships and collaborations which allow it to offer its services throughout the great Chicago area.

In 2011, the PAA helped a diverse set of individuals and families receive help and support in such areas as counseling for victims of domestic violence and substance abuse; help for the homeless; access to benefits; and education and employment.

Guests, representing a wide array of industries, enjoyed an evening filled with savory champagne, delectable salmon, and cultural performances representing Polish American culture.

Alan Krashesky, ABC 7 Chicago Reporter, was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. The award ceremony - honoring both Arie and Bozena - began promptly at 9pm.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel greeted guests and offered words of wisdom to youth.

A choir of young children performed numerous songs, charming the evening with their youthful energy, talent, and vibrance.

Daniel Szefer, a young pianist, performed for guests during dinner.

By Jorge G. Zavala
Creative Director
Richard Chiang
Resident Media Director

Lights, camera, Lily's!

Lily's Talent Agency celebrated its 30th anniversary with a beautiful fête held at The Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago. Lily's Talent Agency along with the Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment (FAME) invited guests to indulge in savory champagne, the latest trends in fashion by a diverse array of local designers, and the chic who's who of Chicago's socialites. 

The exclusive invite-only event began promptly at 6:30pm, allowing guests to meet, mingle, and bask in the ambiance du nuit. Featured designers of the evening included Horacio Nieto, Boyeon Kim, and Keisha Anderson Kirkland-Smith, among others. Miss Chicago 2012 Marisa Buchheit and Taylor Mallory were the emcees for the evening, providing both style and grace.

The crowd mingles while the models, designers, and make-up artists work their magic in the back lounge.

Models gracing the catwalk sported a combination of nouvelle tenue professionnelle and modern cuts emphasizing the body's handsome physique.

Guests characterized the evening's models as confident with a dose of elegance.

Ogilvie Zavala, Associate Arts Editor for Le Prestige du Monde, and Hoang Lam.

Male models made their presence quite visible, with regards masculins and forte strides that allowed guests to focus on both the designs and the diverse looks of each gentleman.

Nancy To, Miss Illinois US 2012, and Jorge Zavala Sr., Director of Investor Relations of Le Prestige du Monde, share a moment while admiring the styles and trends of the evening.

Fall and winter collections were showcased, paying homage to the unique Chicago blend of sentir à l'aise while looking good.

Hair and make-up artists, after an evening of working oh-so-diligently, took the time to unwind after a successful presentation with friends, a glass of champagne, and plenty of photographs.

Lily Liu, President of Lily's Talent Agency, took a moment to acknowledge the effort and determination of each and everyone who's made the team a success.

The Misses. Miss Illinois US 2012 Nancy To, Miss Illinois US 2012 (yes, there are two) Amber Autumn, and Miss Chicago 2012 Marisa Buchheit prepare to call out the names of the evening's raffle winners.

Lily's Talent Agency has grown into its 30th, displaying a great attitude and a determined team that keeps a la mode so as to grow in life, fun, and fashion. We are looking forward to the next 30, Lily.

By Jorge G. Zavala
Creative Director

CHICAGO - On October 19th, the Tribune Media Group held the 2nd annual Pink Tie Gala, which benefited the Chicagoland affiliate of Susan G, Komen for the Cure. This event, held at the Riverfront Theater in Chicago, proved to be quite a sensation not simply because the 2nd class of Komen Chicago Pink Tie Guys came from such a wide-range of backgrounds and experiences, but because the environment and crowd was fit for a pink soiree.

Guests began to arrive around 6:30pm and were greeted by an energetic DJ mixing contemporary hits and beautiful ladies with gorgeous smiles decked out in their cutest pink attire. Tickets, which were sold at the entrance for $120, were worth purchasing. The crowd of philanthropic men and women and business elites adorned the environment where delectable hors d'oeuvres, savory champagne, and divine treats created a fun and fashionable ambiance.

Chaired for the second consecutive year by Richard M. Daley, Of Counsel to the firm Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, the group of "KoMen" was dedicated to the Susan G. Komen mission of saving lives and ending breast cancer. These men were nominated by the community and selected by the Komen Chicagoland Board of Directors to serve as members of this prestigious group and were honored with both public recognition and a sweet pink tie.

The following are this year's class of Pink Tie Guys:

Former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley - who was not in attendance; Windy City LIVE's Ryan Chiaverini; Dr. Bechara Choucair, Commissioner, City of Chicago Department of Public Health; Alderman Robert Fioretti, Alderman of the 2nd Ward, City of Chicago; Jonny Imerman, Founder and Chief Mission Officer, Imerman Angels; Victor LaGroon, Community Relations & Public Affairs Program Manager, UIC Cancer Center; Jim Legothetis, Senior Client Service Partner, Ernst & Young; Reverend Percy McCray, Director of Pastoral Care, Cancer Treatment Centers of America; Wade Miquelon, Chief Financial Officer and President, International, Walgreens; Dr. Steven T. Rosen, Director of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University; Stan Bowman, Vice President & General Manager, Chicago Blackhawks.

The Pink Tie Guys were nominated by the community and selected by the Komen Chicagoland Board of Directors. They are leaders in the corporate and philanthropic sector, groundbreaking physicians, elected officials representing communities possessing the greatest need, as well as other individuals with spheres of influence that create change.

Local artists creating a caricature of one of the Pink Tie Guys and his special lady. "She is taking 20 years off of me," he recalled. "I love her!"

The Pink Tie Guys will serve as ambassadors to the Chicagoland Affiliate, attending signature events and leveraging resources to further the mission of Susan G. Komen Chicago.

The 2nd Annual Pink Tie Gala was definitely one of the hottest events of October raising funds for breast cancer research while looking fabulous. Gianna, one of the guests, insisted she couldn't wait for next year's gala. "Handsome guys in pink ties, ladies in pink cocktail dresses, and delicious champagne - all for a good cause. What's not to love?"