Fashion Group Rising Stars Luncheon

Today, I went to one of my favorite luncheon events in NYC at Cipriani 42nd Street, Fashion Group International's Rising Stars Luncheon.  The Rising Stars Luncheon honors emerging designers in an array of categories including: interior design, retail, fine jewelry, womenswear, menswear, accessories, beauty/fragrance corporate, beauty/fragrance entrepreneur and the Karen Harvey Business Innovator Award.   

All of the honorees were creative, inspiring and companies to watch.  For a complete list of the winners, here is a recap from Women's Wear Daily:

WWD Fashion News

Designer Jason Wu opened the luncheon.  He was honored as a Rising Star in 2008.

Cipriani is always beautiful no matter what the event.

Lisa Black & one of her designs.  To see more of her work,
visit www.lisablackjewellery.com

My dear friend Amy Rosi, owner of Aros Communications, and her client Lisa Black, nominated as a Rising Star in the fine jewelry category for her company Lisa Black Jewellery, were at our table along with Lisa Black's daughter.  Lisa had traveled here from her home in Australia to be here for the awards. Although she did not win the award, truly to be nominated is a wonderful honor, and her designs are beautiful.

Amy Rosi, Lisa Black's daughter, Lisa Black and friend.

Fashion Group International is run by Margaret Hayes, who is president and ceo of the organization, which supports the industry through a wide range of programming.  I have known Margaret for more than 20 years since I was PR director for International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) and her  enthusiasm for fashion, events and networking has really kept Fashion Group relevant and extremely helpful for members.  I recently recommended Margaret be considered for Greenwich Magazine's Power Issue which spotlights accomplished professionals who make Greenwich their home.  I was so happy to see her recognized for her incredible career and featured on the cover along with another accomplished friend -- Lisa Baird, CMO for the USOC.  I encourage you to take a moment and read about these two incredible women and their inspiring careers.  wwww.greenwichmag.com