Fashionable Latin Power Ladies Raise Big Money in a Tequila Fueled Lunch: Now $2 Million Plus and Counting

What: Latin Women’s Initiative annual luncheon and bazaar

Where: Hilton Americas-Houston

PC Moment: What better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than at the always lively Latin Women’s  Initiative benefit, which is highly regarded for its energy, enthusiasm, and fantastic fashions. The 15th annual bash drew more than 650 stylish femmes and a sprinkling of men, who applauded the fashion flair of styles from Cooperativa Shop’s Kris Goyri and Sandra Weil, as well as the heritage collection of Takasami’s Rosario Mendoza.

There were applause all around as Latin Women’s Initiative president Michele Leal Farah announced that since its founding, the group had raised more than $2 million for non-profits that support women and children in Houston’s Latino community. Three cheers for the day’s chairs Karina Barbieri and Daisy Mendoza, who led the event to proceeds of more than $250,000.

A special salute was given to the honorary chairs who assembled on stage in recognition of their contributions to past luncheons. They included Ericka Bagwell, Rosi F. Hernández, Patricia Herrera, Trini Mendenhall, Micheline Ferrand Newall, Mary Tere Perusquia, Cyndy Garza Roberts, and Susana Brener de Stern.

The party concluded with a tequila toast, compliments of Titanium Tequila, to LWI’s milestone anniversary, which warmed up the shopping urges as guests perused the bountiful bazaar.