Hats on to Easter
Garfene Grandison, Gleaner Writer
Kingston's waterfront provided the ultimate backdrop for one of Easter's premier events, the Hats on to Easter charity fashion show and brunch. Set on the lawns of the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) car park under a bright Sunday-morning sun with a steady wind, women and men turned out in their numbers: albeit late to enjoy the Jacqui Tyson cuisine offerings in honour of the founder of the event, communications consultant Christine Bell. With talk swirling that this might be the final staging of the event, all the stops were pulled out to ensure it was a success. The proof could be seen in the seamless execution of the event.
Since its first staging in March 2005, 'Hats on to Easter' has been a signature event on the Easter calendar for men, women and even children. The event's lifetime patron Ambassador Madge Barrett was there to share in the proceedings. Hosted by the comedic antics of Dahlia Harris and Jerry Benzwick, the event came alive after most persons had finished brunch. Others looked on as they ate, laughing from time to time as Benzwick and Harris injected a few fun anecdotes.
As is customary and quite fitting, there was a marvellous hat show, courtesy of Cinderella Hats and Bridal House. The models were mainly some old-school faces mixed with some new school that have been gracing our television screens over the years such as Karen Harriott, Rodney Campbell and Lisa Williams, among others. The hat competition for women sported some stunning and innovative hats while Harris did her best to gather some male contenders for the male hat competition.
During each break, Glen Campbell known more for his comedic performances, proved to be a very capable DJ as he mellowed the vibe of the evening with a few classic 'Sunday music' hits. There were a number of giveaways, including best coordinated couple that went to a couple celebrating 54 years together, from Pioneer Manufacturing Distribution and Totally Male. Other giveaways were courtesy of Isabelle's Day Spa and Body & Soul.
This year's staging of Hats on to Easter was done in collaboration with the Jacqui Tyson and Dr Dennis Howard-organised monthly event, Brunch & Rhythm, at the UDC car park on the Kingston waterfront. Kudos to Jacqui Tyson and Carmen Patterson on a job well done!