On Saturday, May 2, 50 models and their four legged companions sported this seasons’ hottest trends at the Fashion for Paws (F4P) 9th Annual Runway Show. This year’s fabulous event was held at the Grand Hyatt Washington, and we welcomed back our amazing Co-Hosts Scott Thuman, of ABC7 News, and Dr. Katy Nelson, fromThe Pet Show with Dr. Katy. With the support of our co-chairs Gregory Riegle, Poetry Sayer, and Lauren Talarico, and upwards of 1,000 guests in attendance, over $400,000has been raised so far (more money is still coming in) to support the more than 51,000 animals that are helped by the Washington Humane Society (WHS) every year.
Models competed in a friendly, 12-week fundraising competition, raising at least $3,000 each to secure their spot on the runway. Fundraising models were dressed by the luxury retailers of Tysons Galleria, with picture perfect hair and makeup provided by Toka Salon & Day Spa. The four footed models were dressed in signature doggie couture by Regal & Pooch, and they were well taken care of backstage byAnytime K9.
The always creative Design Foundry, once again, was the inspiration behind the French spring inspired theme including the fun and flirty F4P boutique storefront on the runway! Thanks to Quince Imaging, John Farr Lighting, and Maryland Sound, all of which donated a portion of their services which transformed the hotel ballroom into a spectacular special event. Audi, once again a Top Dog sponsor, showcased their luxury vehicle inside the reception and their COO, Mark Del Rosso, and his wife, Teresa, even walked the runway.
The Fashion for Paws Co-Chairs presented the top three fundraising awards to the 2015 Model Washingtonian of the year Donald Hoffman, who raised an impressive $29,585, 2015 Model First Runner-Up, Lynni Megginson, who raised $22,975, and 2015 Model Second Runner-Up, Tara Kovalski, who raised $16,501. We are truly grateful for the support of these incredible individuals, and all of our fundraising models. We cannot thank them enough for their commitment and dedication to WHS. Also, a huge thank you to the more than 100 volunteers who spent their evening helping to make this night a success.
For more information about the event or the full list of 2015 models, committee members, and sponsors, visit www.fashionforpaws.org.
Be sure to check out our photo gallery on Flickr, and if you visited the SocialLight photo booth, find your pictures here. Be sure to join us at our next fundraising event, the 28th Annual Bark Ball, on June 20, 2015. TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!