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

The twinkling glow of both the stars and the Chicago skyline added to the sophisticated, energetic, and positively-charged environment at one of the most-anticipated philanthropic events of the season. On March 8th, 2013, the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE) held it's annual fundraiser - Sembrando el Futuro (Seeding the Future) - at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago.

The proceeds from the event went to support community programs focused on high school, collegiate, women and mid-career professionals, all with hopes of fostering a strong group of talent by supporting members with the necessary resources to progress to the next level in their education or career. With a reach of over 40,000 members on a national level, HACE hopes to reach a wide-range of folks through its sponsors so as to continue providing youth with the tools for success.

Upon arrival, guests were courteously directed by HACE members and volunteers to the eclectic open-bar, which featured a wide-array of spirits and drink options sponsored by Diageo.

As attendees managed to find their elixir of choice, guest speakers, which included Illinois State Governor Pat Quinn, made their way onto the stage. Their message was one of hope and empowerment for the Latino community and youth everywhere: be the best you can possible become with the support of your community.

Chicago ABC 7 News Anchor Stacey Baca served as the gorgeous and talented MC for the evening. Her charisma enchanted guests and the energy Stacey showcased also encouraged both HACE members and guests to network while enjoying savory delights from Chartwells, including vegetarian tostadas and chorizo and cheese empanadas.

Guests lined up and requested their favorite beverage while the kind bar tenders worked their magic.

The DJs kept themselves busy, maneuvering lights, sounds, and energy for all to enjoy.

Community activist and business consultant Jorge Zavala Sr with Illinois State Governor Pat Quinn. Both were caught discussing the importance of education. Both Zavala and Quinn agreed that the arts are integral to the creation of well-rounded youth in Chicago and beyond.

Stacey Baca and PdM share a moment after discussing salsa dancing, Asian travels, and Chicago youth. Both were seen hitting the dance floor while also conversing about the importance of active social engagement to empower both youth and Chicago's diverse communities.

As the night progressed, guests continued to mingle and swap business cards. However, HACE's Sembrando el Futuro had a Latin flavor that included the rhythms of salsa, bachata, and cumbia music that wooed guests off their seats and onto the dance floor. With a little help from one's elixir, even someone with two left feet knew how to salsa their way to new friends and lasting professional relationships.

¡Salud!

By Carlos Ferreira | Society Reporter

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week began on February 7th and ended on the 14th. Designers, including Sergio Davila, Edun, and Kenneth Cole, among many notable figures, showcased some of their best work for Fall 2013. As always, the glam of the New York City brought both attention to the essence of style as well as an opportunity to mingle with the who's who of the international fashion scene.

On my first night back in NYC, I found a cute shop in SoHo that carried a wide-range of both vintage and trendy eye-wear. These would be great for a certain PdM Creative Director...

This is Clara, a university student from Austria. She currently studies fashion merchandising and hopes to one day showcase some of her clients' designers - or her own - on the runways of NYFW.

An insider moment. PdM had the pleasure of getting behind the scenes of a notable designer (who wanted to remain anonymous) and getting a glimpse of the designs before they debuted on the catwalk. Thanks to Margot for setting this opportunity up!

Oh la la, what do we have here? This collection is ready for Fall 2013: je l'adore!

While the behind the scenes aspect was very much-appreciated, nothing compares to the energy and enthusiasm of the crowd as models strutted their looks.

There were many tones, shades, and concepts inspired by the far east. This wedding dress, according to Tiffany, the young woman in the background, insists that the inspiration for this designer's line comes from the film, Corpse Bride.

Whether one loves or hates it, fur is usually an integral part to NYFW. Many designers have opted for faux fur so as to limit the harm done to animals.

The simple, chic, and cute look is definitely coming back.

New York City is filled with enthusiastic and self-motivated individuals who are very much goal-oriented. The exuberance of each show and designer inspires the very best from all of us and we can only hope that in a few months, the excitement will only continue to grow.

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
Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director

On December 27th, 2012 SHPE-Chicago held its annual networking and fundraising event at the Adler Planetarium. The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) Chicago chapter held "Creating Leaders in STEM Together", which included the Adler Sky Show that began promptly at 7pm, free-flowing Indio Beer and EC Charro Tequila all night long, and plenty of delicious hors d'oeuvres from 6pm to 11pm.

The event started with a gracious welcome by SHPE-Chicago board members, including Ruth Barriga, Events Coordinator, who emphasized the importance of philanthropy and community engagement. The evening's fundraiser, which benefits Latino high school and college students who are pursuing the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields of education, drew distinct business and educational leaders spanning the city's diverse communities.

Cultural performances by Chicago's Tierra Colombiana and the Mexican Dance Ensemble brought zest, energy, and plenty of positive vibes to the evening. The crowd lit up as performers danced to typical folkloric dances representative of both Colombia and Mexico.

Guests commented on the beauty and grace of dancers as they were adorned in folkloric dress from Colombia. The group performed 3 dances, each representing a different piece of Colombian heritage.

The Mexican Dance Ensemble wooed attendees with their exuberance and vibrant dance moves that showcased years of experience and dedication.

In addition to the cultural performances, a raffle boasting diverse prizes - including spa treatments and tickets to a comedy show - took place throughout the evening with guests having the opportunity to both engage and win the anticipated goodies.

Lizveth Méndez of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Government & Community Relations, was one of the notable guests of the evening. She mingled with guests, SHPE-Chicago board members, and PdM's team.

SHPE-Chicago board members and friends enjoyed an evening filled with delicious cocktails, great company, and plenty of dancing.

As the evening progressed, the lights began to dim and the crowd came out for dancing. The music, which reflected a mix of Latin salsa, bachata, merengue tunes with top 40 hits from the 1970s, '80s, '90s, and contemporary 2000s.

Some impromptu dance lessons took place with Ruth Barriga leading a group of interested participants.

The evening's positive energy, harmonious vibes, and plenty of smiling faces made SHPE-Chicago's annual holiday fundraiser a success. Guests commented on their pleasant experiences as they departed the Adler Planetarium while noting the importance of giving back to one's community.

"Creating Leaders in STEM Together" brought together an intimate crowd of professionals from a diverse array of industries in Chicago. The core of the evening placed an emphasis on contributing to one's community, not just during the holidays. There was plenty of holiday cheer in the air, and PdM expects great things from SHPE-Chicago in the near future.

¡Salud!

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, Xavier LeBlanc | Film and Visuals

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 commenced with a wonderful cocktail reception with note-worthy 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.

While these videos are only a petite glimpse into the glamorous developments of the evening, they showcase the decadence guests were treated to by the PAA.

The Polish American Association's Executive Director, Gary Kenzer, and Special Events Associate Director, Barbara Sobecka, were wonderful hosts throughout the evening and their team's diligence is truly evident. PdM's team is looking forward to collaborating on future events and awaits 2013's gala, which is surely going to be another success.

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!