Story by Elizabeth Coffey , photos by Cassie Hepler
Whether it’s your mother, your sister, your aunt, or your friend, everyone’s life has been touched in some way or another by breast cancer. This deadly disease not only takes a toll on the physical well-being of those battling it, but their emotional well-being as well. This is where the charity, Unite For Her comes into play to help save the day. They’re dedicated to supporting these female warriors with complimentary therapies that bridge the gap between the medical and wellness communities.
It was an honor to go to the Positively Pink Masquerade Ball to support this generous non-profit in their mission to help those affected by breast cancer. Held at the West Laurel Hill Cemetery ’s elegant conservatory, the party featured an amazing pink ribbon ice sculpture, delicious food, Bourbon Blue cocktails, fun games, a raffle, and a truly stunning performance of the Argentine tango by Shana Heidorn from the Society Hill Dance Academy . We were also instructed in the fine art of the waltz and I’m proud to report that I only stepped on my dance partner’s feet once.
Pink desserts and the winners of the raffle and mask contests rounded out the night. What a magical evening for a great cause! Learn more about Unite For Her and their incredible work to see how you can contribute to the cause .
West Laurel Hill cemetery was the scene of the masquerade ball in its beautiful sprawling grounds.
The beautiful pink ribbon ice sculpture.
Gorgeous pink rose centerpieces dotted every table.
The chicken skewers were remarkably tender accompanied by their ranch and honey mustard dipping sauces.
Fresh vegetables and humus were available for those seeking a very healthy snack.
Zesty salsa and tortilla chips were available for those feeling peckish.
A sea of delicious bite-sized eggplant parm and chicken fajita appetizers were both tasty and satisfying.
Salmon cozy and wrapped up in their flaky, buttery blankets.
Delicious shrimp ready for mass consumption.
Philly eggroll cheesesteak bites are all the rage.
Hugs for friends and survivors could be seen through the evening.
DJ Aura brought down the house with her dazzling DJ skills.
The raffle games and prizes benefiting Unite For Her were powerfully on point.
Amazing craftsmanship in these leather masks.
Cocktails and drinks were provided by Bourbon Blue .
Pink cocktails were the name of the game at the party.
The beautiful backdrop that will soon house the Halloween masquerade ball in October.
A pretty in pink trio who were enjoying the night’s festivities.
This adorable couple’s masks broke in their car but that didn’t stop them from having a wonderful time and enjoying the fresh food and pink drinks.
Masked mavens who were taking in the fresh air at West Laurel Hill Cemetery .
A lovely pair enjoying some pink cocktails.
Kevin Parker of Philly Fashion Week hides behind one of the more elaborate masks of the evening.
Smiles, laughter, and masks make the night.
Party goers sipping on some pink drinks.
Everyone was dressed to impress at the West Laurel Hill Cemetery for the Positively Pink Masquerade Ball.
The pink ribbon ice sculpture was a popular place to pose for pictures with Kate Marlys and Amy Devan.
Smiles abound at the ball with everyone dressed in their best party outfits.
It was lovely to meet Cameron Cavuto , Unite for Her ‘s Special Events Manager.
An intricate peacock masked designed by a local artisan.
Pink hats, broaches, and shawls were perfect accents to the rosy pink backdrop of the party.
Dance professional Shana Heidorn from the Society Hill Dance Academy awaits her music to be played by DJ Aura .
The Argentine tango as performed by Shana Heidorn from the Society Hill Dance Academy .
Shana Heidorn and her dance partner make the Argentine tango look easy.
The Argentine tango is a sultry and seductive dance, one of the many dances you can learn at the Society Hill Dance Academy .
Shana Heidorn and her dance partner glide across the dance floor while performing the Argentine tango.
After Shana’s performance of the Argentine tango, she begins to teach party goers the waltz.
Shana from the Society Hill Dance Academy demonstrating basic dance form for the waltz.
Shana telling the dancers what not to do while waltzing (ie: holding your arms too high).
Party goers practicing their dance moves.
Fancy feet prepare to dance the waltz.
Fancy feet pictured mid-waltz.
Dancing pairs of all types practiced the waltz. Friends, couples, and new acquaintances partnered up and shared the dance floor.
A sweet moment between a dancing couple is captured on camera.
Shana teaches the followers additional steps to the waltz.
Then it is the leaders turn to learn their new step in the waltz.
Everyone twirling around the dance floor and breaking out the new steps to the waltz that they just learned from Shana.
Dancing with India, my dance partner for the evening.
Shana Heidorn talks about the Society Hill Dance Academy and all the partner dances you can learn from Ballroom dances to the Salsa.
Shana Heidorn from the Society Hill Dance Academy and her dance partner for the evening.
Light and fluffy strawberry cream desserts were simply scrumptious.
Chocolate balls and other sweet treats were on full display for dessert.
The party lasted late into the evening with everyone having had a marvelous time.