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Royal Wedding Seminars
- A Benefit for Simon House -

January 26, 2003

On Sunday, February 16, 2003, Haberman Fabrics hosted 70 guests, most making wedding dresses or having them custom sewn, for a wonderful day of bridal and wedding-related seminars.

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. Erik Smithwick of Robin Manoogian’s About Face Beauty Spa demonstrated how to apply special occasion make up for beautiful photos. Cynthia Berendt of Palazzolo Studio showed various hairstyles and how to coordinate them with headpieces and hair ornaments. Ellen Shook of Sheets taught how to make invitations elegant and unique. The Flower Company displayed fabulous floral arrangements and showed 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 Bonnie Daws of Haberman Fabrics taught how to make the proper fabric choices comparing fabric textures, drape, care, weights, even costs. Patty and Bonnie showcased many gowns and explained selecting flattering styles and important construction tips about fitting, lining, underlining, boning, buttons, appliqué 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 raised $1000.00 to benefit SIMON HOUSE, 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.