HGTV designer and host Joe Ruggiero raffled off eight one-of-a-kind handbags at La Maison Interiors to benefit Fresh Start Women’s Foundation.
The raffle featured original Joe Ruggiero designs made with decorative but durable Sunbrella fabrics. The bags varied in style to cater to every situation, from a sophisticated night on the town to a lazy afternoon on the beach.
Catering to all needs is similar to the goal of the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation. Brandy Schade, self esteem manager for the foundation, says Fresh Start is a comprehensive center that helps women of all walks of life with a variety of fields. They offer everything from career coaching and legal counseling to providing professional wardrobes.
Alan K. Reinken, founder of La Maison Interiors, says he was happy to host and present “Fabric and Fashion for a Fresh Start” and thinks it is important for the store to give back.
Ruggiero agrees and has worked with the foundation before.
“I think it’s a great benefit and idea, and I think anything that helps anyone, male or female, get a job these days is great,” Ruggiero says.
Some of the bags offered at the raffle were work appropriate as well. The versatility of the bags was shown in a casual fashion show while guests enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres awaiting the announcement of the winners.
At the end of the night, all the money raised by the raffle was donated to the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation.
“Fresh Start is thrilled to partner with La Maison and Joe Ruggiero, and we are flattered to be receiving some of the proceeds tonight at this event,” Schade says.
