Image: Apryl Stead
When we were first introduced to Karis Support Society it was through one of the Kelowna Women in Business luncheons. We had never heard of the organization but were immediately taken with how passionate the team was and the amazing change it was creating in our community.
Karis seeks to impact the community and the province by providing safe housing, support, life skills, and training for women caught in life-altering addiction and mental health challenges.
One of our mandates at Carolily has always been to inspire and empower women, and to help them feel more beautiful. When we selected Karis as our 2018 charity we knew that we wanted to do more than just donate our time and money—we wanted to have a significant impact on these women’s lives and for them to know they are valued members of our community.
Image: Apryl Stead
On Friday, April 6—with the help of our incredibly kind, giving and creative team—we organized a makeover and photo shoot for three of the Karis ladies, Racquel, Dena, and Diane.
The women began their week with a trip to Georige Girl Vintage. Owner Angela Bricker met with the women for a dress fitting, and each of them walked out with a gorgeous summer dress, gifted to them by Angie.
On the day of the photo shoot the ladies visited Crimson Hair Salon, where salon owner Tara Sebastianis and her team pampered them and styled each of their hair.
The trio was then doted upon by Sarah McIntyre and Brandie Jollimore, our two incredible makeup artists. It was hard to not get teary-eyed, but, with everyone wearing fabulous false eyelashes, there was no crying allowed.
Once their hair and makeup was finished we helped each of the ladies pick out two of our necklaces that made them feel fabulous.
There is nothing quite like seeing someone light up when they find a piece of jewelry that speaks to them. And man, were these ladies beaming—especially when they realized the jewelry was theirs to keep.
Image: Apryl Stead
Apryl Stead, the owner of White Willow Photograpy, opened her home and her studio to us for the photo shoot. As the team was snacking on the most delicious charcuterie board (courtesy of Breanna of Table Forty Nine) Apryl took the ladies one by one into her studio.
She took the time to coach each of them, making sure they were comfortable in front of the camera and were feeling confident. The result was some of the most beautiful photos we had ever seen of women looking and feeling their best.
We want to thank our amazing team for making this day happen. But, more importantly, we want to thank Racquel, Dena, and Diana for letting us be a part of their lives and for opening up their hearts to share their stories with us.
This was one of the most rewarding experiences we have ever had and we plan to make this an annual get together.
This story was originally published by Carolily Finery. More information is available here.
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