Sponsorship Alert: COX Communications

Super special thanks to Cox Communications for sponsoring Gainesville Fashion Week 2012! We're so grateful to have them as a part of our team.

Cox Communications is way more linked to fashion than you think, rest assured! If not for Cox and their bundling plan on internet, phone and TV how would we online shop while making phone calls about designers AND watch Project Runway? All at the same time, of course!

It's taking care of the little things like this that make Cox one our favorite businesses in town. They take care of installing the necessities so we can focus on planning the best fashion week Gainesville as ever seen.

So here's what you should do:
1. Check out the Cox Communications website and see it for yourself!
2. Buy your tickets to Gainesville Fashion Week 2012!
3. Get excited!

-Lauren

Sponsorship Alert: KISS 105.3

You know it’s a party when KISS 105.3 is there! We're thrilled to have KISS 105.3, your Gator party station, as a sponsor for 2012 Gainesville Fashion Week!

Throughout the day KISS 105.3 provides the soundtrack to your life, playing the only top hit music. From a fashion perspective, we think it's IN to be tuned in to KISS 105.3 all day, everyday. This station isn't going out of style anytime soon!

From the KISS Morning Show keeping you posted on celebrity gossip and news to the rush hour jams that get you home on weekdays, there's no competition. It's clear KISS 105.3 is the best radio station in Gainesville!

Check out their Facebook page, as well as their website, where you can become a KISS 105.3 VIP!

-Lauren

Media Sponsor Alert: HOME Magazine

This year's partnership between HOME Magazine and Gainesville Fashion Week is a very exciting one.

HOME Magazine is the 2011 recipient of 2 Florida Magazine Association awards: the Charlie Award for General Excellence and Writing Excellence.

There mission is to be the leading lifestyle publication in North Central Florida, while giving back to those who consider the heart of Florida HOME. By providing relevant information to enhance our community’s well being, we value the opportunity to entertain, educate and inspire you– our neighbors.

HOME Magazine is distributed throughout Gainesville and Newberry, grab a copy a learn more about the community you live in. Check them out on Facebook,too!

-Lauren

Model Rehearsal and the 2012 Mixer!

Last night was our second to last model rehearsal. It feels like just yesterday we were preparing for the Casting Call, but here we are 2 weeks away from FASHION WEEK 2012!


As per usual, the rehearsal was held at Sharab Lounge, one of our favorite spots downtown.

Our DJ filled the air with music as the models practiced their walks for one of the last times. It’s imperative that by this time, we’re perfecting minor things in their walk and posing. The models came out in full-force and showed us they are runway ready!


Sharab was so great to host us for this rehearsal, among so many others. We’re grateful for their hospitality and participation in this year’s Gainesville Fashion Week!


After the rehearsal at Sharab, we headed across the street to ZUZU for our Mixer!

We’re all been working hard - the models, the team, the designer, the sponsors, the media, even our fans and friends! Last night we took some time out to just enjoy each other’s fabulous company.

The mixologists at ZUZU made that even easier for us by stirring up our new favorite drink, the Fashion Passion. It was a fruity little cocktail that had us sipping and socializing all night long! The entire evening was a great chance for everyone to meet and really get to know each other before these final weeks.

Among the models and team members we had designers and sponsors in our midst. The Macy's representative, Natalie had swag bags for the models with goodies and coupons. Director of Communications for HOME Magazine, Megan DeGance was there along with other media sponsors, HerCampus University of Florida president Allison Banko and event team member Ashley Edmonston. Designer Francine Elizabeth attended along with our friends from Solutions Bridal Designer House and of course Albey Coroney representing The 1oz Project.


Thank you again to Sharab and ZUZU for hosting our events last night! We couldn’t do Gainesville Fashion Week without you!

-Lauren

Sponsorship Alert: Moe's Southwest Grill

We all have to eat, even our super fit models! Good thing we have Moe’s Southwest Grill sponsoring us!

There’s nothing better than their quick and friendly service greeting you from the second you walk in... “Welcome to Moe’s!” If you’ve yet to go to Moe’s, we suggest starting with a burrito, they’re delicious! Grab some queso or guac for your chips and your well on your play to being a Moe’s Pro.

We have 4 Moe’s locations in Gainesville, so no matter where you are in town there’s one nearby! There’s one on the University of Florida campus in Rec Center Dining. The other locations are:

3832 W. Newberry Rd. Gainesville, FL 32607, phone: 352-337-2850

3443 SW Archer Rd. Gainesville, FL 32608, phone: 352-367-8565

7770 W. Newberry Rd. Gainesville, FL 32606, phone: 352-332-7606

-Lauren

Sponsorship Alert: Gold 4 All

We're ecstatic about Gold 4 All sponsoring us for fashion week! In the same way we're all family at Gainesville Fashion Week, Gold 4 All is truly a family run business, specializing in jewelry and watches. They put their heart and soul into what they do and it shows! That's why we couldn't be happier to have them on our team.

They're a high energy team passionate about what they do, you won't find a better place to buy jewelry if you tried!

Want some bling? Give them a ring at 954-975-5987 or visit their location inside Festival Flea Market Mall (picture above) at 2900 West Sample Rd 2021 Pompano Beach, FL 33073. To learn more online visit festival.com!

-Lauren

Sponsorship Alert: Complete Nutrition

Fitness goes hand in hand with fashion. We all have to look good under the fabulous clothes we wear, right? That's how the GFW crew and our sponsor Complete Nutrition see things!

Complete Nutrition is the local go-to store if you want to be in the best shape of your life. They help you with your personal health and fitness goals, whether it's losing weight, gaining muscle or just finding the self confidence in you! That's what fuels our models down the runway - self confidence and fierce clothes!

Complete Nutrition open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The store front is located in the Oaks Mall, 6327 W. Newberry Rd. Gainesville, FL 32605. You can reach them by phone at 352-872-5752 or with the click of button, check out their Facebook page!

-Lauren

Sponsorship Alert: University House

We're ecstatic that University House is one of sponsors for Gainesville Fashion Week! Remember our official photoshoot at the beginning of the season? That was at UH!

The University House leasing office is located at 725 NW 13th Street Gainesville, FL 32601. But you can give them a ring at 352-3387467 or follow them on Twitter: @uh13thstreet!

University House luxury apartments are conveniently located 6 block away from the University of Florida campus, on NW 13th Street and NW 7th Avenue. Apartments at University House come fully furnished and include all utilities with high speen internet and digital cable with HBO! What more could you want? And we haven't even told you about the pool... that's right, during the photoshoot, we also hung out poolside with our fabulous models. Want to learn more fun facts about University House? Like them on Facebook and check out the long list of features and amenities... and the occasional update about FREE ice cream available by the pool! University House has it all, and we're so happy to work with them again this year!

-Lauren

Sponsorship Alert: Florida Works

With Gainesville Fashion Week being less than a month away (April 11-15), we want to take some time out to appreciate our sponsors. Their contributions and support is absolutely vital to fashion week.

Florida Works is not only one of our top sponsors, but a local inspiration and positive force in the Alachua and Bradford County community. Florida Works strives to increase employment and support growing businesses. There couldn’t be a mission more closely tied to Gainesville Fashion Week, as both GFW and Florida Works want to support local entrepreneurs and business owners by giving them opportunities to showcase their work and network among people like them...people like you.

Beyond their talent and creativity, our designers, artists and musicians are also business owners. That’s why Florida Works hits us so close to home. Without a good business model and support from the community, these creative local talents can’t reach their full potential.

Florida Works won the 2011 Chairman’s Award from the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce for fostering job growth. Gainesville was also named the Region of Excellence by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for a Competitive Workforce for its sustained, collaborative approach to economic development through education and workforce development.

We couldn’t he happier about Florida Works joining our Gainesville Fashion Week family and supporting jobs in the arts with us!

Visit Florida Works on the web at floridaworksonline.com or in person at 4800 SW 13th St. Gainesville, FL 32608. Their phone number is 352-955-2245.

-Lauren

SPONSOR UPDATE: FloridaWorks

In between jobs? Not really finding the right fit of employees for your company? Here's the local solution.

FloridaWorks is the place where jobseekers and employers connect. Search for a job now at www.EmployFlorida.com

Jobseekers: We can assist you with your job search, placement services, help with resumes, professional networking, assessments, occupational training programs, technology training and more.

Employers: We can assist you with prescreening, job fairs, job posting and monitoring, lay-off aversion programs, lay-off assistance, ramp-up services and more.

SPONSOR UPDATE: Rolls'n Bowls

Rolls 'n Bowls is an innovative sushi restaurant in Gainesville that offers fresh traditional Japanese ingredients combined to create savory foods to satisfy any appetite.

Their concept embraces the freedom of choice in creating your own unique dish. Customers go through the sushi line as the chef asks what the customer wants in their roll, bowl or salad.

Check out their menu online or like them on Facebook to learn about great deals and promotions. Use foursquare? They offer great deals (like FREE edamame) when you check in, so go ahead, check 'em out today.

SPONSOR UPDATE: 106.9 KZY

Gainesville Fashion Week welcomes another radio sponsor to this season's line up.

106.9 KZY is the radio station custom made for North Central Florida.

106.9 KZY gives away thousands of dollars worth of cash and trips every year with Kidd Kraddick in the Morning, plus 106.9 KZY keeps you company all day while you work and all weekend long with 52 minute music hours.

106.9 KZY is on demand at www.1069kzy.com or like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @1069KZYFM

SPONSOR UPDATE: Magic101.3FM

Gainesville Fashion Week is thrilled to announce we have a radio sponosor! Woo hoo!

Magic 101.3 is Gainesville/Ocala's home for blazin’ hip-hop and R&B.

Check them out during your work week or listen live from their website!

The Weekday Lineup

6am-10am: The Rickey Smiley Morning Show

10am-3pm: Lady Reign

3pm-7pm: Ya Boy Russ

7pm-12am: DJ Terrah

Connect with them on Facebook or follow Magic 101.3 on Twitter @Magic1013FM

Meet the models with Spyglass Apartments

We loved that one of our sponsors Spyglass Apartments created this hot, new Meet the Models video.

Take a look at what some of our new and returning talent had to say about the event and check out their vlog CMC-TV.

Brittany and Mel are playing double duty this season as sponsors and GFW team members.

Have a safe and stylish spring break students! See you on the runway.

SPONSOR UPDATE: HOME Magazine

HOME: Living in the Heart of Florida Magazine's mission is to be the leading lifestyle publication in North Central Florida, while giving back to those who consider the heart of Florida HOME.

The magazine has a diverse, extensive readership all over North Central Florida and features articles on everything from healthy to fashion.

HOME is active in support charities throughout the community and hosts its own event, Taste of HOME, to benefit youth in our community.

We proudly welcome them back to another season as media sponsors of Gainesville Fashion Week.

For more information visit their website and grab a copy around town today!

TALENT/SPONSOR UPDATE: Three Thirty Couture

Three Thirty Couture was founded by Nicole Snodgrass in 2009 to fill a much needed gap in Gainesville's fashion circles.

With a likeness to a boutique one would find on 34th Street in New York or in Miami's trendy South Beach; Three Thirty Couture brings a new edginess and style to all of the Gainesville area.

From casual mid town outfits, to a huge selection of cocktail (or evening wear, whatever you think works best) dresses that are sold in very limited quantities to ensure only one other person has the ability to purchase the same item.

If you're looking for something high class without having to pay for it; stop by Three Thirty Couture in the Butler Plaza.

SPONSOR UPDATE: INsite Magazine

INsite magazine is Gainesville's No. 1 entertainment resource.

The monthly print edition features exclusive profiles on everyone making headlines, from local bands to national celebrities. Regular features include reviews on movies, music, video games and books; fashion, beauty and fitness columns and photo shoots; a complete restaurant and nightlife section; and the most comprehensive events calendar in town.

Their sister website, InsiteGainesville.com, is updated daily with front-row concert pics, behind-the-scenes videos, Gator sports highlights, unmatched giveaways and insider events coverage.

Want to be in the know?

Follow INsite on Twitter @INsiteMagazine for Fashion Week deets and more!

SPONSOR UPDATE: Scissors Salon

Two art students at the University of Florida students started Scissors Hair Salon in 1982.

Since then, the team at Scissors salon has committed to helping you look and feel your best.

Their styling team continually strives to bring you the newest innovations in hair design to help you achieve the look you want.

We welcome them back to another season of Gainesville Fashion Week.

TALENT UPDATE: Jacquelyn Brooks

Jacquelyn Brooks is a fashion designer from Gainesville, FL. Her designs include: bridal, formal, semi-formal gowns and resort wear. She has a B.S in Apparel Design from Florida State University. After graduation, she returned to The Swamp where she opened a design studio across from the University of Florida campus.

Brooks passion is designing women's formalwear. Clients commission Jacquelyn to design their red carpet, formal gowns for the area's premiere social events including: the annual Noche de Gala benefit, Oscar Night at the Hippodrome, STOP Children's Cancer fantasy events, Five Point of Live fundraisers and original bridal gowns.

Brooks has also designed competition gowns for the Miss University of Florida and Miss Gainesville pageants.

She's a strong advocate for community service and has donated her gowns to local charities and silent auctions including The American Heart Association's annual ball and STOP Children's Cancer Holiday Concert.

Her design auctioned in the Cure by Design Fashion Show, supporting cancer research, raised $5000 for the American Cancer Society.

You can see more of Jacquelyn Brooks fantastic work at the Rocket for the Art Black Tie Gala on Friday April 8th.

SPONSOR UPDATE: PhoBooth

PhoBooth began in November of 2008, when owner Jenoa and her brother Taylor attended their uncle's wedding. The happy couple rented a photo booth and they thought this was the best thing in the world! We used it over and over, all night long.

Completely captivated by the idea, Jenoa and Taylor began researching other booths online and realized that most photo booth rental services seemed to charge way too much in relation to the quality they provided. They knew they could offerbetter quality photos (thanks to having a professional photographer in the family) and would figure out pricing as they went along.

The brainstorming began and the scribbled blueprints piled up until they finally came up with a plan that stuck. A month of sewing, hammering and praying the first PhoBooth was completed booth literally minutes before their first event.

Two and a half years later they are at revision five, their best booth yet in terms of visual appearance, setup/teardown time, storage space, printer/photo reliability and guest capacity (however, they are always trying to improve and say stick around booth #6).

We welcome Phobooth back for another season of Gainesville Fashion Week and be sure to get your pics taken at our events with their fun props and costumes!