posted by The Princess Shop |
October 2, 2018 15:36
by April Donauer
The trees are already looking bare, we have a couple of snowy days under our belts, and grad season seems like a lifetime ago. All the same, we would like to take some time and reflect on our 2018 Princess Graduates. They are strong, they are intelligent, they are brave, and they are GRADUATED. Here at The Princess Shop, we feel a sense of pride when we send out the dresses on grad days. Each dress belongs to a girl who has reached a truly special milestone and each girl has had her own journey. We celebrate each journey and congratulate each achievement.
This past grad season was a truly remarkable one. What made it particularly special was that it could not have been possible without the support of our community. We had volunteers help mend dresses, volunteers assist in appointments, businesses that donated funds, hair services given, make-up services given, photography services given, and dresses donated. All this to say, The Princess Shop had been able to give back because so much has been given through the support of our community. Thank-You.
One of the most breathtaking moments of grad season is when a graduate chooses her dress. Whether it’s sleek and low profile or jeweled and dramatic, each dress represents celebration. It represents a unique story, a unique style, and an exciting beginning. The celebration begins when the Princess Graduate comes to pick out a dress. Sometimes there is excitement in her eyes, sometimes fear. Excitement because she is planning to go all out, fear because she has never worn a dress and maybe it won’t look good on her. Nothing replaces the look in her eyes when she has found the dress. She is no longer fearful because she KNOWS she looks beautiful in the dress.
This year we had 140 dress appointments, 140 looks of nervous excitement, 140 success stories that represented 18 different Saskatchewan communities, and 140 Princess Graduates who have celebrated their achievements (in style). 140 represents the number of dresses that were worn to graduation celebrations this year but The Princess Shop is more than dresses. This year, our graduates received $32,000 of scholarships. They worked hard and are now off on new adventures. We also have new graduates connecting to mentors, connecting to community. 140 represents the number of dream chasers and hard workers.
Although back the school rush has faded, the pumpkin spice craze is upon us, and grad season seems like a lifetime ago, we want to say a special thank-you to our 2018 Princess Graduates. Thank-you for allowing us to be a part of your day. Thank-you for allowing us to sit next to you while you flashed looks of delight in that mirror when you saw how beautiful you looked. Thank-you.
ps. You can be a part of this impact, too! Click here for more information on how to get involved.
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posted by The Princess Shop |
September 10, 2018 14:34
Stepping into the role of Volunteer Representative is not what you would expect, or at least in comparison to my own previous volunteer experience, not what I expected.
It's been more than - and better than - I envisioned. Every week I attend a weekly meeting with a group of successful and motivating women. We're surrounded by beautiful donated gowns, shoes and accessories. We brainstorm, goal set, get off track for a moment and laugh, and are constantly re-evaluating every aspect of the organization to ensure we have a positive impact on not only our Princess Graduates but our community as whole. By the end of the meeting, were assigned chosen tasks to meet our goals and out into the community we go. We fundraise, network with donors and sponsors and build lasting relationships.
While this is happening, me and other Volunteer Representatives along with individuals from our list of 'Helping Hands', conduct dress appointments which is by far, one of the most fulfilling duties. We simply consult with the graduate about her wants and needs for grad day and beyond. We outline the different programs The Princess Shop offers and ultimately attempt to be the bridge between adversity and prosperity. Once graduation season arrives, it's a whirlwind of wearing many different hats. We go from being a graduate's personal assistant to being a team player of the salons were in and out of.
Every so often, were pulled aside by a graduate who feels graduation and everything that comes with this major achievement, would not be possible without the organization. Rather it was through lending her a dress, providing her with a scholarship or simply being a mentor in her life, we've alleviated hardship in more ways than one. We're thanked and told that we should be proud of the work we do. And when the graduates acknowledge our work and display appreciation for all that we do, it is only a bonus. Because I can tell you, that is not why myself or our team, volunteer for The Princess Shop.
I volunteer because of everything I just shared with you. Though it is only a glimpse of the expectations and experiences that come with the position. If you read between the lines, it's quite easy to recognize that this organization pushes you to become better for yourself and the community. It's a doorway to seeing what community means and what our community offers. It's a way to feel empowered through empowering other women. It further develops various life skills that one utilizes in their everyday life. Skills such as Communication and Leadership skills. And it overall provides you with an experience that changes your life while changing others' lives.
Chelsey is one of a group of amazing individuals who make The Princess Shop a magical place through their passion and dedication. Does this sound like your kind of crew? We are looking to fill some more roles and would love to have you if this post spoke to you. Click here!
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posted by The Princess Shop |
April 19, 2017 14:52
1. 3% of your purchase will be donated to a local nonprofit/charity. The Princess Shop is the lucky and grateful beneficiary February-July 2017. This speaks to their name, The Karma Café – Conscious Café & Eatery. This local business was built upon the philosophy that it goes beyond serving the community delicious food, to giving back to the community.
2. The owners are the nicest people you’ll ever meet. This attitude is also reflected in the staff which is always welcoming and helpful.
3. Their Bulletproof Chai Latte. If you haven’t tried it, what are you waiting for? It is great iced or hot, and has the perfect balance of Black Chai Tea, Grass fed Butter, Coconut Oil, Raw Honey, Dash of cream, Ginger, Cinnamon, and Turmeric. This among their other amazing teas, lattes and hot smoothies… so delicious!
4. Located in beautiful downtown Saskatoon. Located at 157 2nd Ave North, this spot is super accessible by all modes of transportation, and they have a cute sidewalk patio!
5. The décor is both cozy and bright. It makes you want to bring your favorite book or journal, friend for a catch-up, or a date – it appeals to all!
6. The Nighttime Menu launches tonight (April 20) and it is full of amaaaaaaaazing food and cocktails. Our Executive Director, Karen, received a special invite to the preview tasting and can’t stop thinking about the Dim Sums, Samosa Flautas, or the Key Lime Beergarita. The Nighttime Menu be offered Thursday-Saturdays 6pm-10pm.
7. So many other reasons… Including the fact they hosted our Fairy Godmother Program mentorship group after hours for two nights in March, they attended our Glass Slipper Benefit, and they are planning a fundraiser (stay tuned)!
In closing, local businesses like The Karma Café are so important to support as they are built to better the community through experience and giving back. Please plan your next trip to The Karma Café soon!
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