American Cancer Society Adds Performance to Fashion Show Lunch

February 17, 2011

The American Cancer Society honored 12 women from South Florida for their philanthropic work in the fight against cancer on February 10, at its fifth annual Inner Circle of Twelve Luncheon.

This year's 330 guests—friends of the honorees and American Cancer Society supporters—began the day with cocktails on the patio of the Indian Creek Country Club, before the luncheon and a fashion show followed indoors. The event, which was promoted through media coverage, invitations, and a spot on the South Florida Today show, drew 50 more attendees than last year's luncheon. While previous events also included fashion shows, this year, organizers added a singer to the mix: Natalie Fernandez performed, as models in pieces from Roberto de Villacis's spring collection walked the runway.

"This year we also had a young cancer survivor, Mario Fuentes, speak," said Carmen Piles, gala manager for the American Cancer Society’s Dade unit. "It brought to reality the reason everyone was there and why we do events like this." Fuentes is a recipient of the American Cancer Society's Reaching Out to Cancer Kids Programs.

Piles said the event raised more than $105,000—and donations are still coming in. Tickets for the luncheon were $200 per person, and additional funds were raised through the sale of program book advertisements. Last year's Inner Circle of Twelve luncheon raised $90,000.

Indian Creek provided catering and linens for the luncheon, which was produced by the Event Firm International. Petal Productions provided flowers and lighting, and draping was by Design Elements.

The American Cancer Society’s next event is the White Out Cancer Gala, on April 2 at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami.