“We don’t realize how blessed we are until we fully begin to look outside ourselves,” words from Alpharetta Housewives’ founder Branda Peterson. Branda has been a magnet to community outreach and has made it a priority to work with and curate teams to create impactful, powerful, and influential events. This fall, Branda joined forces with the EV Hotel Give Back Foundation and EV Hotels chairman and founder Ken Patel to present Alpharetta’s 2023 Gatsby Gala event.
Fascinators, sequins, bow-ties, fedoras, and feathers dazzled the ballroom at Hotel Avalon where attendees stepped into a space that catapulted them back to the 1920s. Performances were provided by Angel the Star and Gabe Lustman, with special guest appearances by Bella Blaq and music, TV, and entertainment producer Ian Burke. An added touch of elegance was on display as the crowd witnessed a live painting demonstration by contemporary artist Armando Chacon.
Guests donated, danced, and listened to an open dialogue about sex trafficking and how we, as a community, can make a difference. The conversation was led by Amelia Quinn, founder of BeLoved Atlanta, and executive development director Chesin Kuriakose. Amelia and Chesin delivered an informative presentation that outlined the importance of their cause, BeLoved Atlanta, a nonprofit addressing the problem of sex trafficking in Atlanta by offering support and providing safe homes. Did you know that sex trafficking in Atlanta is larger than in Seattle, D.C., and Denver combined?
Award-winning sex trafficking survivor Dr. Nissi Hamilton brought the event to a close as the keynote speaker. Dr. Hamilton is the recipient of the Foundation of Improvement in Justice award. She further designed "The Texas S.M.A.R.T Act" making it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to work in any sexually oriented business. She has been seen on the Paramount+TV series Never Seen Again, Sports Illustrated, Fox News, PaperCity Mag, and Unfiltered.
Branda wrapped the Great Gatsby Gala by saying “We must make this an annual event as it was hugely supported and it has created a much-needed spotlight on an important cause.” Ken Patel, Branda Peterson and event planner Sky Coffee have opened the discussion on bringing this amazing evening back to Alpharetta again in 2024.