Community Corner
Models Strut the Runway at Lauren Astley Benefit Fashion Show
Wayland joins in support of the Dunne and Astley families in raising funds for Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund.
On Saturday, Nov. 26, more than 200 Wayland residents gathered at the Sandy Burr Country Club for the "Keep On Sparkling: Moving Forward in the Spirit of Lauren Dunne Astley" Fashion Show held in the memory of Wayland teen Lauren Astley.
Funds raised by the event will benefit the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund, whose mission is "to promote dynamic educational programs, particularly those in the areas of the development of healthy teen relationships, the arts, and community service," according to the fund's website and the event's program.
Jonathan Elias, award-winning WBZ-TV anchor, served as host for the event.
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The fashion show featured models wearing fashions from Shop 344, where Astley worked; J. Hilburn; and Sara Campbell. Accessories were provided by Out of Asia, Sara Campbell and Stella & Dot, while hair and makeup services were provided by , and .
Supermodel Brent Zachery provided commentary as the models made their appearances on the runway.
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In addition to viewing the latest fall and winter fashions, attendees also participated in raffles and auctions for a wide range of items, including jewelry, weekend getaways, sports event tickets and a football autographed by Tony Romo. Â
The fun and laughter were suspended for a few somber moments when Astley's parents, Malcolm Astley and Mary Dunne, each spoke about their daughter and the community's effort to turn tragedy into positive change.
At the conclusion of the event, the popular musical group Aer, featuring Wayland High alumni Carter Schultz and David von Mering, performed several numbers to the delight of local fans. Â
DJ Sam Seng provided music throughout the event.
Angela Zachery, one of the event's organizers, said that she hopes the event becomes an annual event to provide Wayland youth with the opportunity to experience modeling while raising funds to support the mission of the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund.
Editor's Note: Freelance photographer John Keklak is offering additional photos from the fashion show for sale here. Proceeds from the sale of these photos will be donated to the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund.
