Upcoming Style Show raises money for scholarships

For 35 years, the Tomball Business and Professional Women's organization has been helping the community grow and thrive by giving thousands of dollars in scholarships to local high school seniors and women for continuing education.

"There's a need to give back to your community and make your community a better place," said Aleata Oeser, president of the association and owner of Infinity Fitness in Tomball. "Your business thrives when your community thrives. It's very valuable to us as business owners to have a thriving community."

The group will hold its fourth annual Spring Style Show and Garden Party on April 7 to raise money for scholarships. There were 250 people at last year's event, which raised more than $10,000.

The association also raises money through ticket sales to its annual Fall Food Fest in October, where local restaurants offer sample-size dishes to attendees. Through both events, the group raised enough money to provide $17,000 in scholarships last year. All the proceeds from the events go to the scholarships.

Scholarships are given in $1,000 increments to high school senior girls. Any female high school senior from Tomball or Magnolia can apply, including home-schooled students.

In addition, the association gives "Women Helping Women" scholarships to women 27 or older to help finish a degree or certification program. The scholarships vary in amount and can be up to $3,000.

It's a case by case situation based on the woman's need, Oeser said. One woman TB&PW helped was working on her PhD. Another woman needed an extra accreditation for her job.

"That gave her a raise in pay and allowed her to get health insurance," Oeser said. "That helped that family a long way."

The association, which has 35 to 40 members, meets once a month for lunch in Tomball.

"It's a nice mix of business and pleasure and community involvement," said Candy Ferrer, a realtor with Realty Associates and a member since 2008. "It's a great way to network and build friendships in the community."

Oeser became a member of the association to get to know the community.

"We get to know each other on a more personal level," Oeser said. "These ladies truly do network for you."

Spring Style Show

The Spring Style Show showcases clothes from five locally owned boutiques: Dahlia's, Foxworthy's, Mas Boutique, Palais Royal and Aidan Grace Boutique.

The clothes will be modeled by women, men and children.

It will be catered by Cisco's Salsa Company and Whistle Stop Tea Room in Tomball, which is making custom-themed desserts for the event's fairy-tale theme.

The garden party will also include music and a mimosa fountain.

There will also be a live auction and a silent auction.

Three past presidents of the Tomball Chamber of Commerce will make a special appearance as male models. A lunch or dinner with the men will be auctioned as well.

Bruce Hillegeist, president of the Tomball Chamber, will be the emcee at the event.

In addition to the fashion show, there will be a Kentucky Derby hat contest, with three categories including contemporary, most creative and the hat that best matches your outfit.

Spring Style Show and Garden Party, April 7, 1–4 p.m., 30331 Winfro Drive, Tomball, www.tbpw.net

Tickets are $35, ($15 for children 12 and under).