Fashion show works against domestic violence

Published 1:22 pm Thursday, March 9, 2017

By STEVEN CALHOUN/Staff Writer

The Struttin’ Against Domestic Violence fashion show on March 3 raised over $1,000 for Jessie’s Place.

Celeste Montgomery organized the event as a way to raise funds for the organization, which provides help to women and children who are victims of domestic violence.

“Domestic violence is my platform as I hold the title of Miss Jefferson State Chilton County and go to Miss Alabama,” Montgomery wrote in an email. “I have personally experienced domestic violence, so it is dear to my heart. I wanted people to come and enjoy the show and do a little shopping but also realize how common domestic violence is in today’s society.”

The domestic violence awareness color purple was incorporated into the show. Purple balloons lined the runway as symbols of support for victims of domestic violence. The color purple was also incorporated into many of the outfits in the show.

The girls walked the runway to show off outfits from the vendors at the show. Outfits for all ages were shown as music played and attendees snapped pictures and admired the variety of styles.

In keeping with the theme of domestic violence awareness, some of the models in the show carried self-defense gadgets to show what options people have for protecting themselves. One device was a stun gun disguised as a camera.

Montgomery said the vendors all had a great attitude and the girls in the show “had a blast.” She hopes to make the fashion show a regular event.

Jessie’s Place is a ministry of the Jimmie Hale Mission. To learn more, visit the Jessie’s Place Facebook page or go to jimmiehalemission.com/ministries-more/jessies-place.