New Hope Gala Event
| Vantel Pearls In The Oyster was pleased to support New Hope's 30th Anniversary String of Pearls Gala Celebration on Friday, March 20, 2009. This important event honored survivors of domestic and sexual violence and commemorated 30 years of New Hope working to strengthen individuals and families by ending domestic violence.
Distinguished guests who were present at Lake Pearl Luciano's were Honorary Committee Chairs, Diane Patrick, First Lady of Massachusetts, who delivered a powerful and moving key note address, U.S. Rep. James McGovern as well as Vantel Pearls President and Founder, Joan Hartel. |
 Vantel Pearls President Joan Hartel (left) with first lady of Massachusetts, Diane Patrick |
 Vantel Pearls President Joan Hartel (left) with Representative Jim McGovern |
Honored guests received beautiful Pearl jewelry gifts donated by Vantel Pearls and the featured item in the live auction, which stirred high bids and excitement, was a 100 inch strand of AAA quality genuine Pearls, also donated by Ms. Hartel and Vantel Pearls. The lucky winner bestowed the beautiful strand as a gift to his wife on the spot! Attendees were treated to a surprise gift at the end of the evening. |
| Hidden in beautiful table centerpieces were real oysters, provided by Vantel Pearls, containing beautiful, genuine pearls with breathtaking color and luster. Guests were invited to open their own oyster! All delightfully discovered (with many ooh's and ahh's) peach, lavender, cream, white and gold pearls! |
 Vantel Pearls President Joan Hartel (middle) looks on as Diane Patrick admires her new pearl jewelry Below: Gala attendees enjoy opening their oysters! |
Just as domestic violence can be present in our community, but go unnoticed; analogies were made with oysters that were imperceptibly present in beautiful floral arrangements.
Domestic violence can exist even where lives appear beautiful and well supported, like the oysters floating beneath elegant white tulips. Skilled New Hope staff provides critical support to abuse victims so that the individuals can flourish and shine - like a pearl!
A limited commemorative Sterling Silver Ribbon of Hope pendant bearing the domestic violence symbolic purple color was offered to attendees for which all proceeds benefited New Hope and its work.
