Natalie's Everyday Heroes: Local fashion show gives everyone a chance to shine
PORT WASHINGTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- This week's everyday hero packed Edison Hall for a night of fun and fashion in Port Washington.
More than 120 people came out to support Kara Marie Boutique's winter fashion show.
And it was all for a good cause, supporting Mel's Charities and its community ambassadors.
"Let's put a little glitter," the makeup artist said, dabbing on the sparkles.
Before it's time to walk the runway, it's time for a little glam.
"Isn't that pretty, look at that," she said, looking at the finished product.
"We were getting ready, put makeup on and do our hair," said Emma Leonard, one of the models in the show.
Emma is one of several models walking in the Beat the Winter Blues fashion show put on by Kara Marie Boutique.
"Our store is pure joy. I love to have color, prints, lots of fun," said owner Kara Yearling.
Yearling took to the stage, announcing all of the fashion.
"Look at that cute button in the front," she said of a pair of wide-leg jeans.
The show included some cute stuff just in time for Valentine's Day.
Yearling made this a special night - not just for those in the crowd, but for some of the volunteers helping to put on the show.
"I like clothes. I like color. Bright colors," said Kevin Korinek.
Korinek is an ambassador for Mel's Charities, and he was ready to escort the models to the stage.
"My mom helped me practice," he exclaimed.
Elizabeth Suran is program operation manager for Mel's Charities.
"Everybody is pumped. Our ambassadors are people in the community who have IDD, so individuals with developmental disabilities."
Kevin and Emma are just two of the nine ambassadors in the spotlight.
"Woo! Rock it, girl," Suran called out during the show.
And part of the money raised will help Mel's Charities support all of the work it does in Ozaukee County.
"I love Mel's mission. And I love that he keeps everything in Ozaukee County. And just strengthening our own community is really great," Yearling said.
Suran says it's people like Yearling who help make their work possible.
"She's creating the opportunities, which is the type of partnership that we want to have," Suran said.
After the show, everyone got to do a little shopping.
Maybe picking up something new for Valentine's Day. And leaving with full hearts.
"The joy that everybody has, it's contagious. And I think everybody in the room is going to go home just full of love tonight," Suran said.
Kara Marie Boutique is in downtown Grafton. They host several fashion shows a year to benefit charity and to promote community and small businesses.
For more information, click here. And to learn more about Mel's Charities work in Ozaukee County, click here.
If you'd like to nominate an Everyday Hero, send Natalie a message at [email protected].