On Saturday April 5, I had the supreme honor of being the emcee for the first annual Spring Teen Fashion Show. The show, held at Gilda's Club in Royal Oak MI, was hosted by the "Queen for A Day" organization. The "Queen for A Day" organization visits seriously and terminally ill children in hospitals and makes the queen or hero for a day.

The organization held an open call for models that were cancer survivors and got an overwhelming response. There were 25 young ladies in the show, ages 5-18. What a joy it was for me to join in commending and encouraging these young heroines! Each model had a different story of triumph over adversity. Each model was an inspiration for us all.

Macy's Somerset Collection of Troy MI provided the spring fashions. Each model was fitted by one of Macy's professional personal shoppers. The fashions were an eclectic mix of funky and fabulous. Bright colors were a stand out. Layering of tops was popular and of course metallic accesories of all hues. Metallics of gold, silver, bronze, platinum, and colored metallics were a favorite. Some of the featured designers were: ABS, INK, Roca Wear, Ellen Tracy, Baby Phat, and Chaud Jeans.

The models were indeed, queens for a day. All were treated to professional hairstyling and makeup application. They had professional runway coaching by Megan of Productions Plus and of course, yours truly. Most of these girls had never performed in public before. Believe me when I say they all rose to the occasion! There was something for everyone. Even one model who strutted her stuff down the runway in a motorized wheel chair. She was absolutely fabulous in a sixties-inspired psychodelic chic top and bell bottomed jeans. 

I enjoyed hosting the show and tried my best to make each model feel special. I was humbled and blessed by the whole experience.

The "Queen for a Day" organization raised all its funding for the show through donations from retailers and other generous supporters. Each model was given a gift bag full of treats and flowers at the end of the show. The parents were overflowing with pride for their beautiful daughters. The finale of the show was performed to "I'm a Survivor" by Destiny's Child.

Everyone was excited. We have already met to discuss making next years show bigger and better. Hope to see you there! 

The young lady in the first photo with Christallin is Erin Jenkinson, National American Miss Jr. Teen 2007-2008, a rising star! 2nd photo-Nikki Follis (show coordinator) and Christallin, models in show and I, jr. model and I.