San Diego, CA, December 19, 2025
The Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon at the US Grant Hotel gathered hundreds in support of individuals with disabilities. With a theme of ‘Shimmer & Glimmer,’ the event showcased local fashion talent and raised vital funds for The Arc of San Diego, benefiting over 2,000 community members. Attendees enjoyed a stylish runway show, including impressive designs and philanthropic efforts exemplifying community spirit and commitment to inclusivity.
Winter Wonderland Fashion Show Shines in San Diego CA
A Festive Gathering Supporting Local Individuals with Disabilities
San Diego, CA – On December 5, 2025, the historic US Grant Hotel became the elegant backdrop for the annual Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon, an event benefiting The Arc of San Diego. Themed “Shimmer & Glimmer,” this event aimed to support over 2,000 children and adults with disabilities across the county, showcasing the community’s commitment to inclusivity and engagement through thoughtful organization and philanthropic efforts.
This year’s event was a true display of resilience and creativity from local organizers who navigated the complexities of hosting an impactful gathering. By fostering partnerships among community members and local businesses, the event illustrated how streamlined coordination—free from excessive bureaucracy—can enhance philanthropic initiatives and community empowerment.
A Day of Celebration and Purpose
The Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon commenced at 10 a.m. with a festive reception that featured boutique shopping and a silent auction. A well-executed event of this magnitude reflects the strength that comes from local leadership and collaboration. Event chairs, including Maria Stanley, Laura Applegate, Cece Drummon, and others, worked diligently alongside honorary chairs Dr. Howard and Barbara Milstein to craft an enriching experience.
Captivating Fashion Showcase
Emceed by ballroom dance champion Mary Murphy, the show featured a runway segment helmed by style expert Leonard Simpson. Designers like Debbie Nghiem displayed dazzling gold ensembles, capturing attention and embodying the spirit of the season. The finale, presented by Mario’s Boutique, left attendees in awe and highlighted the wealth of talent within the local fashion scene.
Impact of The Arc of San Diego
Proceeds from the event are directed to The Arc of San Diego’s vital programs, which encompass day training, employment, and residential services for individuals with disabilities. As the largest nonprofit organization in the region dedicated to this mission, The Arc positively influences the lives of over 2,000 community members each year. The emphasis on local choice and community initiative in supporting such programs exemplifies how individual efforts can lead to meaningful outcomes.
A Community Committed to Philanthropy
The ongoing success of the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon speaks volumes about the collective effort in San Diego to support individuals with disabilities. This annual event is not only a celebration of style and community spirit but also serves as a powerful reminder of the impact philanthropy can have on underserved populations. Such gatherings foster a culture of generosity and inclusivity, encouraging all San Diegans to engage in community development.
Supporting Future Initiatives
Engagement in events like the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon is critical for maintaining and expanding crucial services for individuals with disabilities. As the community looks ahead, consideration of future initiatives can be enhanced through increased participation and support. For those inspired to contribute, attending future events, making donations, or volunteering can foster a richer environment for local growth.
Conclusion
In summary, the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon represents more than just an opportunity to enjoy beautiful fashion—it symbolizes the heart of community service and commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. As the local landscape continues to evolve, let us remain dedicated to supporting such initiatives that reflect our values and priorities. We encourage all San Diegans to stay engaged and participate in upcoming community events to further this mission.
FAQ
What is the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon?
The Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon is an annual event that combines fashion, philanthropy, and holiday cheer to support individuals with disabilities in San Diego County.
When did the event take place?
The event took place on December 5, 2025.
Where was the event held?
The event was hosted at the historic US Grant Hotel in San Diego, CA.
What organization does the event benefit?
The event benefits The Arc of San Diego, the largest nonprofit in the county serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
How many individuals does The Arc of San Diego support?
The Arc of San Diego positively impacts over 2,000 children and adults with disabilities annually.
What were some highlights of this year’s show?
Highlights included a runway show featuring designs by Debbie Nghiem and a finale by Mario’s Boutique, showcasing vibrant and radiant ensembles.
Key Features of the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | December 5, 2025 |
| Location | US Grant Hotel, San Diego, CA |
| Beneficiary | The Arc of San Diego |
| Target Audience | Individuals with disabilities |
| Expected Impact | Support for over 2,000 children and adults with disabilities annually |
| Key Highlights | Fashion show led by Leonard Simpson, featuring designs by Debbie Nghiem and Mario’s Boutique. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
