2026 Couture for a Cure

Fashion, science, hope and progress come together at the 21st annual Couture for a Cure, a glamorous celebration of Van Andel Institute’s 30th anniversary. Celebrate three decades of science and education initiatives while delving into the latest fashion on Oct. 8 at VAI.

Co-hosts Carol Van Andel and Rebecca Wierda will guide you through the trendiest fabrics, styles and outfits, curated by the luxury specialists at Leigh’s. The evening will also feature an exclusive Hellessy fashion presentation from this year’s featured designer, Sylvie Millstein. Millstein designs with a singular muse in mind: the modern woman on the go. Hellessy embodies a refined, laid-back glamour that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Known for sculptural silhouettes, compelling color stories, signature adorned denim and draped blouses with seductive necklines, each collection delivers core yet distinctive pieces — future classics that exude quiet confidence.

Alongside the fashion presentation, guests will enjoy a strolling cocktail hour, seated dinner, a chance auction and live entertainment from DJ AB. Exclusive items from Artistry will be available throughout the evening.

Suggested attire for the evening is cocktail attire.

Complimentary valet parking at the main entrance.

Founded in 2012 from her Soho studio, Hellessy is the vision of Paris-born designer Sylvie Millstein. Raised in France, Millstein’s passion for fashion began as a teenager leafing through the pages of French Vogue. Determined to one day work for Chanel and inspired by her Japanese heritage, she attended business school in France before moving to Japan, where she realized her ambition by becoming a Buying Manager at Chanel.

After more than a decade as a Senior Merchant working with esteemed institutions including Chanel, Givenchy, and Harrods across Europe and Japan, Millstein relocated to New York City with her family. Her deep understanding of the luxury womenswear space laid the groundwork for her own label.

The brand’s name is deeply personal—derived from the first syllables of her two eldest sons’ names, Hendrix and Lennox, along with her own.

Millstein designs with a singular muse in mind: the modern woman on the go. Hellessy embodies a refined, laid-back glamour that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Known for sculptural silhouettes, compelling color stories, signature adorned denim, and draped blouses with seductive necklines, each collection delivers core yet distinctive pieces—future classics that exude quiet confidence. Unexpected details, from tattooed lace accents to ribbon applications, allow for versatility and individuality season after season.

Thanks to our incredible 2026 sponsors!

“Adorned” Photography with Acrylic Mark Making
By Stephen Smith (Muse GR) 2026
“Adorned” is a photographic portrait celebrating the beauty, presence and elegance of a Sudanese woman. After capturing the image, I used hand-applied mark making to embellish the portrait, allowing the photograph to become both image and surface. The marks move across her face like adornment, emphasizing her features while adding rhythm, texture and a sense of individuality.
Value: $250

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel — Bed, Bottle & Beef
Enjoy dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a bottle of premium wine and an overnight stay at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
Value: $500

Artistry LongXevity Skincare Duo
Elevate your skincare routine with the Artistry LongXevity Rich Cream + Eye Cream Bundle from Amway. This luxurious pairing brings together targeted face and eye care for an indulgent addition to your daily beauty routine.
Pamper your skin with the rich, comforting feel of LongXevity Rich Cream, complemented by dedicated care for the delicate eye area. Whether refreshing your own routine or treating someone special, this Artistry duo makes everyday skincare feel a little more luxurious.
Value: $550

BrightWave Therapy Package
This package includes 10 Class IV Laser sessions designed to support your body’s natural wellness. Treatments are provided using FDA-approved technology.
Value: $650

Custom Style Experience With Leigh’s
Leigh’s will treat you and three friends to an exclusive in-store experience. Start off with makeup artists who will pamper you with a skincare consultation and makeup application as you enjoy refreshments. Next, you will meet with one of Leigh’s buyers for a private overview of the season’s hottest trends and see how they can be incorporated into your own personal style. Leigh’s has generously included four $100 gift cards so your group can shop to your heart’s content! Best of all, 10% of what you spend will benefit Van Andel Institute!
Value: $1,500

DJ Party With AB
DJ services for a three-hour dance party. Limited to one setup location within a 30-minute travel time from Grand Rapids. Subject to availability. Excludes Saturdays, weddings and ticketed or public events.
Value: $2,500

An Evening at Scholar
Treat yourself to an elevated dining experience with a $150 gift card to Scholar in downtown Grand Rapids. With its inviting atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted food and drinks, Scholar offers the perfect setting for a memorable evening out.
Whether it’s date night, dinner with friends or a special celebration, enjoy a night of great flavors, conversation and hospitality at this distinctive Grand Rapids destination.
Value: $150

Exclusive Mahjong Package
Join the game that’s quickly becoming all the rage with this exclusive Mahjong package! Whether you’re already hooked on calling “Mahjong!” or have been waiting for the perfect opportunity to learn, this collection is designed to bring even more fun and style to the table.
With Mahjong nights popping up everywhere, there’s never been a better time to play. This package is sure to delight experienced players looking to add something special to their collection as well as beginners ready to discover their new favorite game.
Value: $500

Golf Lessons & Fittings for 2
Grab a friend and work on your golf game together with this PGA Tour Superstore experience for two! You’ll each receive a set of three introductory golf lessons and your own personal driver fitting session at the Grand Rapids PGA Tour Superstore.
Whether you’re learning together or looking to sharpen your skills, this package is the perfect excuse to grab your favorite golf buddy and hit the links!
Value: $600

Looking Sharp With Fitzgerald’s
Refresh your wardrobe with a $250 gift certificate to Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store. Known for exceptional menswear, personalized service and timeless style, Fitzgerald’s makes it easy to find the perfect look for any occasion.
Whether you’re searching for a sharp new outfit, updating your everyday essentials or adding the perfect finishing touches, enjoy a personalized shopping experience and discover something that makes you look and feel your best.
Value: $250

Michigan State vs. Northwestern — 4 Premium Tickets + Parking
Experience Big Ten football from incredible seats as Michigan State takes on Northwestern on Oct. 17! This package includes four tickets in Section 22, Row 8, Seats 1–4, putting you just eight rows from the action for an outstanding view of every play.
Make game day even easier with an included parking pass for Lot 62. Gather your favorite Spartan fans and enjoy the energy, tradition and excitement of a fall football Saturday from seats that make this an experience to remember.
Value: $700

The Parlour at CityFlatsHotel Gift Card & Product Set
Treat yourself to a luxurious salon experience at The Parlour inside CityFlatsHotel. This package includes a $50 gift card to be used toward services of your choice, along with a premium product set to keep you feeling pampered long after your visit. Perfect for a little self-care or as a thoughtful gift!
Value: $150

Pretty in Pink by Kendra Scott
Add a touch of sparkle to your jewelry collection with the Kendra Scott Abbie gold crystal necklace and coordinating drop earrings in pink.
Featuring shimmering pink crystals set in a classic gold-tone finish, this beautiful pairing brings just the right amount of color and elegance to any look. Wear them together for a polished statement or separately to add a little sparkle to everything from everyday outfits to special occasions.
A chic and feminine set that’s sure to become a jewelry-box favorite.
Value: $170

Private Shopping at Dime & Regal
We’re opening the Dime & Regal Showroom just for you! Enjoy a private jewelry shopping experience complete with snacks, champagne and $1,000 to spend at our shop. Make it a solo adventure or enjoy the experience with a friend.
Dime & Regal is a women-owned and operated jewelry shop located on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids. Our store offers a curated collection of fine jewelry, including necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets from 18 independent and local artists. We also offer custom design services for custom engagement rings, wedding bands and other custom jewelry projects.
Value: $1,500

Rebel Nell Private Mural Making & Shopping Experience
Gather your friends for a one-of-a-kind evening at Rebel Nell’s Grand Rapids location with a private shopping and mural-making experience for up to 30 guests. Enjoy time to shop, connect and create together while learning more about Rebel Nell and the story behind its mission-driven jewelry.
During the event, guests will help create a custom interactive Rebel Nell mural, hear a presentation about the company and its history and enjoy a custom product presentation from a Rebel Nell team member. Rebel Nell’s jewelry is made from repurposed materials, with profits supporting programs focused on financial training, career education and other wrap-around services.
A meaningful and memorable experience that blends creativity, community and shopping in the heart of Grand Rapids.
Value: $1,550

Sweetwater Hideaway: A Lake Michigan Weekend Escape
Escape to Sweetwater Hideaway for a relaxing Friday-through-Sunday getaway for up to eight guests. Just two blocks from both Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake and a short three-minute walk to the beach, this luxury retreat is the perfect setting for a spring weekend with family or friends.
Your stay includes a welcome basket with snacks and wine, plus a special dinner or cookout at the property, arranged with the owners and accompanied by a selection of wine or beer if desired. Spend your weekend enjoying the beach, exploring the lakeshore or simply relaxing together at this beautiful home away from home.
Valid for a Friday–Sunday stay between May 1 and June 15, 2027, with dates to be reserved with the owners as soon as possible.
Value: $2,000

Swing, Sip & Dine at Gimme’s Par & Grill
Tee up a great time with one hour of simulator bay time at Gimme’s Par & Grill! Whether you’re an experienced golfer looking to work on your swing or just ready for some friendly competition, enjoy an hour of indoor golf in a fun and relaxed setting.
After hitting the virtual links, use your $25 gift card toward food and drinks to round out the experience.
Value: $100

Treat Day: A Little Something Sweet & Self-Care
Give yourself—or a friend—the perfect excuse for a Treat Day filled with local favorites! Start with something delicious using a $25 gift card to Mokaya, then enjoy a little self-care and shopping with a $30 gift card to Fox Naturals.
Keep the day going with a $50 gift card to Stoffer Home or Bradbury Cafe, where you can browse beautiful finds or settle in for a coffee and bite to eat. Then, raise a glass with a $50 gift card to Eastern Kille to round out your day.
Whether you share the experience with a friend or keep all the treats for yourself, this package has everything you need for a day of sweets, shopping, self-care, and sipping!
Value: $155

The Urban You Wellness Experience
Gather up to eight guests for a private wellness experience at Urban You, where each guest will enjoy an Express Facial, B12 Wellness Booster, NuCalm® experience and personalized wellness consultation.
The host will also receive three months of YOU+ Wellness Optimization and $500 toward Neurotoxin.
A one-of-a-kind opportunity to refresh, recharge and enjoy a little self-care together!
Value: $2,900

Hellessy Styling Day at Leigh’s | October 9 | 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Continue the Couture for a Cure experience with an exclusive styling day at Leigh’s. Hellessy’s Design Director, Jeremy James, will be in store for one-on-one styling sessions featuring the Fall 2026 and Resort collections.

One-hour styling sessions. Appointments are recommended. Call 616.942.6300 to reserve your spot.

LEIGH’S | 1942 Breton Rd SE | Grand Rapids, MI 49506

Find Bliss in a Private Villa in Costa Rica

• 6-night stay for eight* guests in a luxury villa in Costa Rica**
• Concierge service to assist you in planning this exciting experience
• *Please note there is a $150 USD security and utility deposit per person. To exceed the recommended/included eight guest accommodations, additional fees will be charged per person by the villa concierge at the time of booking. Accommodating more than the recommended/included eight guests is subject to availability, and at the discretion of the property concierge. All villas have at least 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, some have more, but none have less.
• **The villa pictured is an example of the accommodations guests may stay in. All villas are subject to availability, and may vary according to the guests’ dates. All villas used are of equal or higher value than the villa displayed in the photos. Stay must be booked with a Saturday check-in and Friday check-out.

Starting Bid: $5,700

The Hellessy Experience at Leigh’s
Make a statement with a $2,000 Hellessy gift card to be used at Leigh’s, where modern luxury meets effortless sophistication.
From beautifully tailored silhouettes to bold, feminine designs, Hellessy creates pieces meant to stand out. With the expert guidance and personalized service of the team at Leigh’s, the winner can find a look that feels uniquely their own.
Value: $2,000 | Starting Bid: $1,000

One-Year Dormie Network Membership — The Ultimate Private Golf Experience
Experience private destination golf at its finest with a one-year membership to Dormie Network, an exclusive collection of seven private golf clubs featuring courses designed by some of the most celebrated names in golf, including Arnold Palmer, Coore & Crenshaw, Tom Fazio, David McLay Kidd, and Lester George.
With locations in Texas, North Carolina, New Jersey, Nebraska, Virginia, and Indiana, Dormie Network offers members an exceptional way to combine world-class golf with memorable getaways for friends, family, clients, and business partners.
This package includes full member privileges at all seven private clubs, with no cart fees or reciprocal-play arrangements. Fifteen-minute tee-time intervals create an unhurried, pure golf experience while helping maintain exceptional course conditions throughout the year.
The membership is awarded to and held by the winning bidder and is not transferable or shareable among other individuals. Members are encouraged to make the experience their own — whether enjoying golf trips with friends and family or hosting clients, colleagues, and business partners.
The experience extends well beyond the course. Dormie Network clubs are purpose-built for overnight golf trips and group entertainment, with luxurious four-master-suite cottages, onsite dining, private meeting spaces, distinctive cocktail programs, impressive wine selections, and seasonal farm-to-course cuisine. Each property provides an intimate, relaxed setting equally suited for a weekend with friends or an unforgettable client experience.
This exclusive auction package includes a one-year Dormie Network membership valued at $20,000. At the conclusion of the first year, the winning bidder will have the opportunity to continue as a dues-paying member — with the initiation fee waived forever.
Whether you’re looking to take a few extraordinary golf trips each year, entertain family and friends, build relationships with clients and business partners, or simply experience some of the country’s finest private destination golf, this membership is an exceptional introduction to everything Dormie Network has to offer.
Please note: Travel to and from Dormie Network properties is not included in this package and is the responsibility of the winning bidder.
Visit the Dormie Network Membership Information page ➔
Take a look inside the luxury Dormie Network experience ➔
Value: $20,000 | Starting Bid: $20,000

Tequila Queens: Salt, Lime & Sizzling Tacos — Taco ’Bout a Party! Fiesta Experience for 25

• A 3-hour beautifully curated experience for up to 25 guests
• A skilled private chef crafting tacos just for you
• Nine elevated canapé-style bites bursting with bold flavors
• Specially curated Tequila flight poured by your professional bartender Tequila flight poured by your mixologist to sample
• Free-pour margaritas – bright, citrusy, unforgettable
• A professional mixologist bartender who keeps the night flowing smoothly with salt rimmed margaritas
• Full cleanup after the celebration (so you don’t lift a finger)

Starting Bid: $3,400