Fashion, Philanthropy & $1.6M: How Orange County's Chic Charity Event Shined!

Prepare to have your mind blown as Orange County hosts the glitziest, most fashion-forward charity event of the year! The Harvesters' 32nd annual fashion show and luncheon dazzled the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, with over 340 stylish attendees gathering to support the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. A whopping $1.6 million was raised, providing much-needed nutrition to families in need!

For a staggering 32 years, Harvesters have been the backbone supporting Second Harvest Food Bank's mission to deliver nutritious food directly to those in need, affirms Jassel Kaye, the Harvesters' chair. Every dollar collected from this fabulous fashion extravaganza finds its way directly to making sure no one goes hungry in the OC.

The day sparkled off with a champagne reception by Mikimoto, famed for their exquisite pearls. Amongst floral displays echoing the spirit of giving, attendees mingled, flaunting their best photo-worthy poses in a space adorned for celebratory vibes.

Guests couldn't resist the temptation of a scintillating auction—featuring the likes of Mikimoto’s glorious Petit Soleil earrings, ultra-luxurious handbags, and even a dreamy Cabo San Lucas getaway! Talk about living the high life while doing good.

In stark contrast to the glamour, Monica Wood, Harvesters co-chair, highlighted the reality of nearly half of food-insecure households struggling above the poverty line. Rent or food? That choice is a bitter pill many in OC have to swallow. Thanks to this magnificent event, help is on the way!

The fashion stakes soared as Balmain’s Fall/Winter 2024-25 collection dazzled down the runway in the Samueli Theater. Post-show, everyone basked in the glory of gourmet dining right amidst the concert hall’s elegance.

According to Debra Gunn-Downing from South Coast Plaza, elegance and philanthropy marched hand in hand at this runway-to-reception experience. The Plaza’s collaboration with the Harvesters is one they proudly tout as a yearly highlight—aligning glamour with a gorgeous cause!

But the fun didn't stop there. An exclusive, beyond-fabulous after-party at the Park Club kept the vibes alive with music by DJ Mike Soltani and the tantalizing "Stylishly Skinny Margarita" on the menu. Here's to community and cocktails!

The catalyst behind this concerted effort? Orange County’s silent struggle with hunger. With one in ten residents fighting food insecurity, Claudia Bonilla Keller, CEO of Second Harvest, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Harvesters: "This event is transformative, playing a crucial role in feeding over 442,000 residents a month."

Among the proud supporters, spotting names like Harvesters' co-founders Jill Johnson-Tucker and Jennifer Van Bergh was a testament to what chic commitment looks like! With such dedication, Orange County is a step closer to achieving food security for all. 🌟