Fashion And Philanthropy Come Together At Fairchild's Splendor In the Garden Luncheon

Renee Lopez Cantera, Lilliam Machado, Orianne Collins, Stephen Brunelle, Lesli Brown, Swanee DiMare, Ken Downing, Frances Sevilla Sacasa, Mari Grimalt, Carol Iacovelli, & Friend

Photo Credit: World Red Eye

On a beautiful sunny afternoon, more than 400 of Miami’s most fashionable and philanthropic guests took to the historic Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to celebrate the 7th Annual Splendor in the Garden event. The fête was presented by Neiman Marcus Coral Gables and Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables. The afternoon included a luncheon and exclusive fashion show presented by Ken Downing, VP and Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus. All proceeds from the event supported Fairchild’s programs in education, conservation science and horticulture.

The celebration began with a cocktail reception and tours of the Garden followed by a multi-course, seated lakeside lunch catered by Le Basque. Emcees local 10 news anchors, Laurie Jennings and Louis Aguire welcomed guests and introduced Co-Chairs Swanee DiMare and Frances Sevilla-Sacasa, who thanked the sponsors, partners and the audience for their support. Fairchild’s Director, Dr. Carl Lewis, spoke about the many science and education initiatives at the Garden that fundraisers such as Splendor in the Garden help to sustain.

Photo Credit: World Red Eye

Ken Downing then took the stage to introduce the 2018 Philanthropy Honorees—a handful of Miami’s most influential women—including Lesli Brown, Renee Lopez Cantera, Orianne Collins, Mari Grimalt, Carol Iacovelli, Lilliam Machado and Amanda Rodriguez. Downing walked them down the runway and spoke a bit about each one and their work within the community.

The grand finale ensued, where Downing presented the highly-anticipated Spring 2018 fashion show which highlighted gorgeous pieces embellished with lace, tulle and bright colors. He closed the show by giving everyone, “absolute permission to be bold, and wear gold. There is nothing that gold and more gold can’t fix.” The finale consisted of sequins, sparkles and opulence, titled “My 80’s moment.”

Following the show and luncheon, guests were able to finish out the day by shopping some of the latest trends from the exclusive Backstage Boutique, which featured pieces fresh off-the-runway.