Fashionable Fiesta Fetes Latin Women's Initiative's 30th Anny

ALWAYS AN ENERGETIC event, the Latin Women's Initiative Luncheon and Fashion Show did not disappoint. Held at the Hilton Americas, the day started, per usual, with a marketplace (and tequila-tasting!).

After they sipped and shopped, the 850-plus guests filed into the ballroom for the main event — the group’s 30th-anniversary celebration. Johanna Terry Events’ emerald-hued décor and florals were a beautiful nod to the milestone.

The fashion show was presented on a massive Y-shaped runway by Saks Fifth Avenue. Produced by Lenny Matuszewski and Tamara Bonar, it starred Houston firefighters among the models. Argentine-born Puerto Rican actor and TV host Julián Gil made a surprise appearance on the runway, too!

The ritzy raffle included items like a fabulous diamond tennis necklace from Zadok Jewelers, which contributed to the more than $500,000 raised that afternoon. Net proceeds will benefit Justice Forward, Rebuilding Together Houston, Segundo Barrio, El Centro de Corazon, and Naba Shoes for Kids.

After the program, the festivities continued with dancing to the music from Grupo Kache — and a tequila toast, of course.

April Ramirez Fabre and Julie Garza

Hasina Starks, Heidi Turney, April Ramirez Fabre, Lisset Garza, Jovanny Orellana, Jujlian Gil, Naimeh Salem, Julie Garza

Ceron

Jovanny Orellana and Julian Gil walking down runway

Fashion Show Presented by Saks

Lisset Garza, Chree Boydston, Mauricio Serrano, Rosi Hernandez

Vicki Luna, Horacio Lerma

Josie Doubet, Cathryn Martinez and Alex de Aguilar Reuter

Cyndy Garza Roberts and Edward Sanchez

Lucia and Michael Cordua