Couture for a Cure

Join co-hosts Carol Van Andel, Rebecca Wierda and Kelli Templeton for the 17th annual Couture for a Cure —  an evening full of fashion, fun and philanthropy in support of Van Andel institute’s mission!

This year’s intimate event will feature a one-of-a-kind fashion show by Leigh’s along with a special look at the Fall/Winter 2022 collection from world-renowned Italian brand Max Mara. Founded in 1951 by visionary Achille Maramotti and recognized today for its timeless sensibility and luxurious fabrics, Max Mara is available in 2,600 locations in more than 100 countries worldwide. Artistry™ skincare and makeup will grace the runway, with opportunities for guests to experience these on-trend products at the beauty bar.

The event will feature a strolling cocktail hour, a silent auction full of incredible items, a seated dinner and the long-awaited return of the after-party featuring live entertainment from DJ AB. Guests will be gifted swag bags with specially curated items and sponsors will receive exclusive benefits and VIP gifts from Artistry. All in attendance will have access to a one-of-a-kind shopping experience featuring fashionable looks from Max Mara. Guests will receive a gift card for the Max Mara Shopping Experience, and 10 percent of all sales will be donated to VAI!

All proceeds directly fund biomedical research and science education programs at the Institute.

Suggested attire for the evening is Cocktail Attire.

4:00 – 5:30 pm

VIP Party for sponsors and sponsor guests only.

5:30 – 6:30 pm

Max Mara shopping experience
Artistry beauty bar experience
Strolling cocktail reception

6:30 – 8:00 pm

Seated dinner begins
Music by DJ AB and sponsor slideshow

8:00 pm

Welcome by program emcee Kelli Templeton, Chief Marketing Officer, Amway
Remarks by Carol Van Andel, Executive Director of The David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation
Van Andel Institute video presentation
Remarks by Rebecca Wierda, President of Leigh’s
Leigh’s and Max Mara fashion presentation

9:00 pm

Runway fashion presentation ends

9:00 – 11:00 pm

Afterglow with DJ AB
Max Mara shopping experience and the Artistry beauty bar experience remain open

11:00 pm

Event ends

Passed hor d’oeuvres

Crab cake with saffron aioli
Spinach stuffed mushroom cap
Rare flank steak on seasoned crostini with a delicate mustard mousse

Family Style Apps

Trio of dips with toasted baguette and lavash

Salad

Salad of kale and baby red chard, roasted butternut squash, candied walnuts, radish, and cider honey vinaigrette

Entrée

Seared salmon, purple and sweet potato hash, with tomato-balsamic sauce and chimichurri

Dessert

Vanilla bean cheesecake with roasted peach compote and ginger shortdough cookie