NEW ORLEANS – The fifth annual FestiGals event raised more than $45,000 for the Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans and Breastoration. Both organizations support women currently undergoing treatment for cancer.
The four-day event was held on June 11-14, 2015, at the JW Marriott Hotel and included the Bodacious Bras for a Cause Luncheon & Auction. The auction featured the top three winning finalists of the Bodacious Bra Challenge which took place during the month leading up to the weekend. Also featured were original works of art from artists Marita Crandle, Laurie Fleck, Kristina Larson, Paulette Lizano and Sarah Segovia.
FestiGals hosted about 2,000 women throughout the course of the weekend. In addition to the Bodacious Bra challenge, events included nine professional and personal development seminars, breakfast with civic activists Anne Milling and Denise Thornton as well as Councilwoman LaToya Cantrell who led a storm of change to revitalize New Orleans post-Katrina, a Sip & Shop with approximately 30 local merchants and businesses, an exclusive culinary experience at Southern Food and Beverage Museum, and ended with brunch at Muriel’s on Jackson Square.
FestiGals founder Diane Lyons said “We’ve heard from first-time participants who plan to return with friends in 2016. Our fifth anniversary is a catalyst for the future, raising more funds to support causes that are important to women and creating greater awareness about the power of women and the benefits of sharing and bonding in an experience that’s just for them.”
FestiGals is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting, educating and inspiring women through seminars and events that empower, showcase the culture of New Orleans, and raise awareness and resources for targeted women's causes.
The annual event held in New Orleans is produced by Diane B. Lyons, DMCP, CMP and ACCENT on Arrangements, Inc., a DMC Network Company. In its first year in 2011, FestiGals attracted more than 150 women, and in 2014 attendance grew to nearly 1,500 women from across the country.
The New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce all endorse this unique women's celebration. Collectively, FestiGals primary fundraising initiative "Bodacious Bras for a Cause" has raised over $55,000 for targeted women's causes.
