Michele Utt, a local event planner who owns MK Events, and Valerie Velazquez, Miss Texas Latina USA 2009, invited the Austin community to join them on May 12 for Strut 512 benefiting Spirit Reins, proclaimed by the mayor of Austin as “Austin’s Strut 512 Day.”
Strut 512 took place at one of Austin’s most beautiful venues, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum. The festive and philanthropic evening began with a complimentary appetizer, cocktail and dessert reception and live music by classic rock cover band Rock House.
The evening also included a silent auction, a live auction with art by Cao Creations and music by DJ Johnny Bravo, and it ended with the highly anticipated fashion show.
Sandra Antoun of Kitsch Trading Co. produced the fashion show featuring local boutiques and designers, including John Castro with Kastro Kills, Michelle Weisman with 81 Poppies, Mana Culture and Catherine Nicole Jewelry. Rae Cosmetics did the makeup, and Ritual Salon and Shandi Nichelle Co. did the hair.
“Spirit Reins is so excited to be a part of this unique Austin event,” said Rhonda Smith, Spirit Reins executive director. “We are so grateful to MK Events for orchestrating this event to benefit the programs offered by Spirit Reins.
“Thank you to Valerie Velazquez for hosting the event and all the local businesses, sponsors and volunteers working to make this event a huge success. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children in our community.”
Spirit Reins is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of emotionally and behaviorally challenged children with the help of horses. Under the guidance of a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist, EAP sessions partner children with horses in ways that are designed to help traumatized children learn to build relationships based on trust, respect, understanding and love.
Spirit Reins is a ranch where children find hope – something too many children in our community have lost. Through therapy, horses provide these kids with their first glimpse of unconditional acceptance, trust, respect and love. This is where the process of healing begins.
Good eats for Strut 512 were provided by the Old School BBQ & Grill bus, with cocktails courtesy of Y Vodka, Dulce Vida Tequila, Treaty Oak Rum, Shiner Beers and Flat Creek Winery. Guests could quench their thirst at the fresh-squeezed lemonade bar by the Lemonade Company or try a refreshing tropical soda by Waialua Soda Works.
Guests could also indulge in sweet treats by Steely’s Petite Treats, Tiff’s Treats and Nib Chocolates. To push their taste buds even further, there was also the Cornucopia popcorn bar with a number of mouth-watering, savory flavors.
Everett Christopher with Unreal360 was there to get pictures of the who’s who in Austin as they entered the event, while a crowd of photographers flocked to the stage when the fashion show began.
With the support of presenting sponsor, Liberty Mutual, and participating sponsor, Twisted X Brewing Company, as well as the participation of local vendors and guests’ attendance, the Spirit Reins Ranch has enjoyed lessened financial stress and implemented some new programs. Strut 512 served as a fundraising success for Spirit Reins, and it did it with class and impressive detail.
“I am extremely happy with the outcome of the Strut 512 benefit, and together, the Austin community was able to make a difference in the lives of children,” Utt said. “For me, it’s the most amazing feeling to look around and see my hard work pay off as everyone is enjoying the evening of fun, fashion and philanthropy.
“I am so grateful for all the sponsors, vendors and people involved in making Strut 512 a huge success that will only improve in the years to come.”
For more information, visit www.mkeventsaustin.com.
