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"Isabelle's Bistro" On March 29th 19 Powerful Women came together to transform the dining room at Crisis Ministries into "Isabelle's Bistro" and to create an amazing experience for 31 homeless women and 9 children. With the help of Amanda and Kris, former chefs, a 5 star menu was created -
Salad Greens tossed with
Sliced Apple, Candied Walnuts and Raspberry Walnut
Vinaigrette Dressing
Banana Pudding
served with Chocolate Dipped Vanilla Wafers The set up was truly inspirational with colorful balloons each anchored by a star with an empowerment word written on it which hovered slightly above a beautifully arranged vase of freshly cut flowers. Each place setting had an individual "Be" statement. Each table was adorned with table clothes, real salt and pepper shakers, butter and lemon dishes, creamer - no detail was left unattended. The women were greeted at the door with our maitre d's , Marcye, Alice Gray and Anna and were individually escorted to their table. They were served all 3 courses, and waited on hand and foot. Low lighting, soft jazz playing in the background, and the sound of laughter filled the air. At the end of the evening the women were surprised by a gift bag of goodies donated by The Sanctuary Spa at Kiawah Island, Urban Nirvana, and Mary Kay representatives. We also wrote hand written cards to every woman, words that we hope carry them through the many struggles they face. The children had individual gift bags filled with toys and goodies, and a new teddy bear needing some hugs. We were told by the staff at Crisis Ministries that there has never been a time when something like this has been done. There were many tears that night - tears of joy and surprise on the part of the women staying at the shelter and tears of just being touched at the core on our part. The women gave us a standing ovation and clearly did want the night to end. This experience cannot be described in words adequate enough for the amazing feeling it provided. Because of HIPAA laws we could not take photos of the event once the women arrived. In many ways I am sad that anyone not present that night will never see the happiness and light that shines through those women's faces but then I am so happy to know that the experience will truly be reserved for those of us who showed up and put so much love, energy and compassion into the night. There were many women changed forever on this night, this I truly believe - including those of us who worked so hard at making it happen. I would like to thank the team that made this happen:
Alice Gray
For other contributors
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A special thank you to Kim L for taking great photos! Due to HIPAA regulations, we were only allowed to photograph the set up.
Each table had a centerpiece of flowers, with a balloon anchored by a star hovering above.
Alice Gray and Michele reading the menu
Kim as part of the kitchen crew
Amanda and Reba
Dakota and set up crew More photos coming soon!
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