Back

Royal Wedding Seminars
A benefit for Simon House and Gilda's House of Metro Detroit

On SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2002, Haberman Fabrics hosted 90 guests, most making wedding dresses or having them custom sewn, for a wonderful day of bridal and wedding-related seminars. Admission donations raised $1000.00 for SIMON HOUSE and GILDA’S CLUB Metro Detroit. A delightful surprise visitor, Cyndy Canty, of Magic (105.1 FM) Radio’s Morning Show, came to welcome seminar guests too.

Representatives from Royal Oak businesses, all experts in their fields, offered informative presentations to answer many wedding planning questions. Guests had an opportunity to speak to each pro individually too, and arrange for further consultation. Rebecca Aughton of Brá-vo Intimates taught what to wear beneath gowns to guarantee the most flattering lines. Robin Manoogian of About Face Beauty Spa related how to apply special occasion make up for beautiful photos. Lisa Grix of Beads SRO suggested ideal jewelry to compliment bridal or attendants' dresses. Ellen Shook of Sheets showed how to make invitations elegant and unique. Tim Hourigan of The Flower Company displayed fabulous floral arrangements as he discussed how to select and use flowers to enhance color schemes. And last, but not least, Bill Thomas of Pronto Catering defined options for beautiful AND delicious wedding cakes. Then he proved his point by serving incredible tortes to all. Our thanks to each of these terrific Royal Oak Businesses for participating.

After the "cake and consultation" break, Patty Weir and Kerry Bowman of Haberman Fabrics taught how to make the proper fabric choices comparing fabric textures, drape, care, weights, even costs. Patty and Kerry showcased many gowns and explained selecting flattering styles and important construction tips about fitting, lining, underlining, boning, buttons, appliqués and embellishment. This new-found knowledge would apply to bridal gown and all special occasion dressing, so Moms and attendants gained from the seminars too.

Admission donations benefited two excellent metro area charities too, GILDA'S CLUB Metro Detroit and SIMON HOUSE. GILDA'S CLUB provides a vital network in their support programs for cancer patients and their families. SIMON HOUSE is an innovative community-based emergency, transitional and permanent housing facility, providing shelter and a holistic program for homeless women and children infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. It is the only shelter of its kind in the Detroit Area and has improved the lives of hundreds of women and children since it opened in April, 1990.