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Royal Wedding Seminars
- A Benefit For Simon House -

Sunday, February 15, 2004

Kate Bennett & Patty Weir of Haberman Fabrics demonstrate fabric options

On this very crisp and wonderfully sunny day, Haberman Fabrics hosted a delightful group of guests, most making wedding dresses or having them custom sewn. It was a warm, relaxed and highly informative day of bridal and wedding-related seminars, all without the stresses of massive commercial bridal fairs.

"Royal Experts", representatives from Royal Oak businesses, all experts in their fields, offered informative presentations and demonstrations 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. Kevin Balko, Manager of Palazzolo, spoke about a relaxing, pampered wedding day of hairstyling and make-up, Laura Laemers of Robin Manoogian's About Face Beauty Spa discussed special occasion make-up for beautiful photos as Jennie Sporer, of Palazzolo demonstrated hairstyling to coordinate with headpieces and hair ornaments. Ellen Shook of Sheets impressed all with tips for creating wedding printing that is unique, beautiful and personal. Dawn Owen of Dawn Owen Designs, a highly experienced florist and wedding coordinator from her delightful new shop, shared tips and trends for ideal floral arrangements. Presenting examples of her timeless, superb photography, and sharing suggestions was Elayne, of Elayne Gross Photography.

Holiday Catering chef Traci Bahlman, and cake designer Sabrina Crescentini of Holiday Bakery, impressed all with options for beautiful, and delicious wedding cakes and catering for the 'big day' and events before and following. Demonstrating their expertise, they then served a delicious lunch of a grilled salmon salad, choice of two perfect soups, assorted breads, and excellent cake. We offer our thanks to each of these terrific Royal Oak businesses for sharing their expertise.

Following our 'feast', Patty Weir and Kate Bennett of Haberman Fabrics demonstrated bridal fashion trends and taught how to make the proper fabric choices comparing fabric textures, drape, care, weights, and colors. Patty and Kate showcased many gowns and explained selecting flattering styles, embellishment options, and important construction tips. This new-found knowledge would apply to bridal gown and all special occasion dressing, so Moms and attendants gained from the seminars too.

SIMON HOUSE received 100% of admission donations. It is a very special, community-based non-profit organization that provides shelter, health education, support and hospice in an innovative holistic program for homeless women and children living with 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.

Guests enjoying Elayne Gross' Photography

Patty Weir and Kate Bennett of Haberman Fabrics

Dawn Owen of Dawn Owen Designs, Rebecca Aughton of Brá-vo Intimates,
and Elayne Gross of Elayne Gross Photography

Sabrina Crescentini of Holiday Bakery and Traci Bahlman of Holiday Catering

Kevin Balko and Jennie Sporer of Palazzolo,
and Laura Laemers of Robin Manoogian's About Face Beauty Spa