Style with Substance Launch Event
Style with Substance officially launched on June 7th, 2015 showcasing the Sappho by Kim Smiley collection with 20% of all proceeds supporting a non-profit organization, Up with Women.
“When I wear my lace cuff by Kim Smiley, I do so with pride – I love to share the story about Kim as a designer and social entrepreneur, the craftsmanship behind the product and that 20% is helping a charitable organization” Stacey Fruitman
We had the event at Kim Smiley’s lovely showroom, which gave attendees a peek into the artist’s atelier. The walls were covered with Kim’s mixed-media artwork which we later discovered was her inspiration for her beautiful embellished lace cuffs and other jewelry. She is not only passionate about her artistry, but also about social justice. She was determined to make a difference, and thought she could do it through her design business. Sappho, we learned, was the one of the greatest lyric poets of all time, and poetry is intertwined within all of Kim’s work. To see Kim’s designs and to shop, please go to her website at www.kimsmiley.com
Kim in her lovely jewelry
After Kim spoke, we then has the pleasure to hear from Lia Grimanis, founder of Up with Women. The entire audience was entranced by her story, she wanted to change people’s perceptions about homelessness. She was also once homeless, but didn’t reveal her story until she rose high enough in the business world for people to take notice and cover her story. She recalled that she had wished someone came to meet with her when she was living in the shelter – who had actually succeeded in the business world. That would have given her some much needed hope and inspiration. This was the premise of Up with Women – to give people the encouragement through an integrated support platform to help sustain themselves outside of the shelter. Click here for Lia’s Tedx Talk.
Stacey Fruitman and Lia Grimanis
The event was a great success with almost 70 people attending and over $1500 raised for Up with Women. Thank you to all those who attended and please continue to follow us on Facebook and twitter to hear about more amazing brands and designers that are also socially responsible.
“I fell in love with this necklace designed by Kim, but when I heard more about Kim’s work and then hearing Lia’s story – I bought more and can’t wait to share the story with others” Pam Sulpizi, attendee at event.
Friends enjoying the event
