Attending the Nov. 2019, pre-pandemic Festival of Trees at the Marriott Hotel in San Ramon are, L-R: Sondra Landberg of Walnut Creek, Sheila Casazza of Santa Rosa with friends Patti Camras of Orinda and Candy Kattenburg, formerly of Orinda. The Nov. 18 luncheon and fashion show is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The 35th Annual Festival of Trees Luncheon and Fashion Show, an Orinda Woman’s Club annual major fundraising event, will take place Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the San Ramon Marriott Hotel.
Seating is limited and early reservations are encouraged, according to Club President Kelly Davis.
Major beneficiaries from this event are the Assistance League Diablo Valley (ALDV) and Operation School Bell Common Threads. The ALDV is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, which puts caring and commitment into action through philanthropic programs in Contra Costa County.
The School Bell program supplies $100 in new clothing to homeless children in three county wide school districts.
The Orinda Woman’s Club also supports local non-profit organizations, which aid former foster children and women rejoining the workforce and provide educational grants to graduating Miramonte High School students.
Breaking from the traditional and more formal runway-style fashion show, this year’s festivities will have models touring the ballroom among guests in the Tea Room style of modeling.
“This way, our guests can more closely appreciate the latest fashions on live models,” said club member and model Patti Camras.
Trending winter and holiday attire will be provided by Chico’s, Harper Green and Mahsa.
“We’re excited about showcasing casual fashions in a friendly atmosphere,” said Suzanne Murillo, chair of the fundraising committee.
Local models include Marianne Aude, Jenifer Balducci, Patti Camras, Sue Farmer, Chris Linezo, Karen Norris, Cindy Powell, Donna Schupert and Victoria Smith.
“It’s fun knowing our friends and neighbors are the super models this year,” added Murillo.
Keeping with tradition, dozens of decorated and themed table-top Christmas trees will be raffled to lucky ticket purchasers, and fabulous silent auction items will be awarded to the highest bidder.
Previous year tabletop items featured money trees, teddy bear trees, snowflake trees, sports and team logo trees along with wine and food baskets, memorabilia and so many more.
“Some of the auction items include a one-week stay in a beautiful house in Vermont, a Ralph Lauren reversible tote, a Dooney & Bourke handbag, restaurant gift certificates and jewelry from Ireland,” said Davis.
Murillo is focusing on the bright side of this year’s event.
“Let’s all stay healthy, think positive and look forward to this in-person gathering featuring a new, fun, casual fashion show – while following all COVID-19 guidelines in effect for Contra Costa County,” said Murillo.
Dan Ashley, co-anchor at Channel 7 News, returns as Master of Ceremonies. To register online, visit
https://bit.ly/2Z5VMPF or RSVP to Janet Nelson at 925.451.0559 or Charlene Antal at 925.376.3323. Reservations are $95 per person, and general parking is included. Any sized donations are welcome.
