The 2010 Darwin Cup day exceeded all my expectations and pulled out all the stops to be a raceday that rivals any other Group-1 raceday down south. Tens of thousands of Darwinites and visitors flocked to the Fannie Bay racecourse and experience racing, 'top end' style.The Pearl Galleria Fashions on the Field Competition was amazing with hundreds of women and men of all ages taking part. Being a friend of Competition sponsor Gaynor Beck I was roped into help register entrants and this gave me an unbeatable way to peruse the fashion that was at the track. It was amazing to see so much effort, personal style and varied looks and I loved how the younger ladies in the 'under 25s best dressed' category looked like little versions of Audrey Hepburn, channelling vintage and classic style. The other categories of 'best dressed over 25s', 'best dressed over 40s', 'best dressed male' and 'best headwear' all proved to be hugely popular.
It was wonderful to see entrants utilise the talents of the local milliners to personalise their outfits, these entrants were the ones who stood out the most to me. There were also a number of entrants to dressed and styled and even made their entire outfit.
I was very proud to see many of my clients at the track in my pieces, alot were ready made pieces and a number were custom orders also. As the judges narrowed the field down to semi-finalists and then 3 finalists in each category, I was over the moon to see my clients among those judged as worthy of a top three place. In the end my clients Leanne won the 'over 25s best dressed' in chic black and white, Yvette was awarded 2nd place in 'over 40s best dressed' in delectable cream and apricot and the stunning Amy in electric blue, pink and black won 'best headwear' with elegant Robyn coming third in 'best headwear' in her striking navy and orange combination. These top three placegettings for my clients left me gobsmacked and the mention of my business on the channel 9 news that night even more left me floored. This is just my first year of being commecial with my business and its a start that I never expected. All I can really say now that the Carnival is over is a huge thank you to all my beautiful clients, you are all amazing. A massive thank you to Gaynor of Pearl Galleria and John of Savvas Shoes for allowing me to stock my pieces in your stores, without this support it would be nearly impossible to be able to sell my pieces. Make sure you check out these store next year when the carnival is on again.
I've been having a break from millinery during August and September but October is gearing up to be a busy one with Melbourne Cup just around the corner. If you are attending a Melbourne Cup event please be in touch with me as soon as possible as I only have limited time for custom pieces and I have orders rolling already.
I have big news regarding Melbourne Cup day for Gina Marie Millinery so stay tuned and I will reveal all in the coming fortnight. Till then enjoy the photos I've posted of Darwin Cup!
Speak soon! xxxx
