Fall Rush

This long weekend was cold, and a bit chaotic I confess.  Summer has passed, school is back, and the little girlaboutOtown was definitely ready to return. 

I, on the other hand, sometimes wish the lazy days of summer went on forever.  Along with the sense of anticipation that characterizes the fall season there always seems to be a rush of events to consider.   Maybe it’s the adult version of “back to school”, but suddenly, things feel really busy again!  Phew!

So, without further ado, here are a few of the events & invitations that have come my way over the past few days…perhaps one or two will interest you?

1.  Autumn Splendour Fall Beauty Event at The Bay Rideau.  September 16, 12:00 noon – 9:00pm. 

This national event invites guests to  sample the latest and greatest in cosmetics and skin care.  Tickets are $10, with $2 donated  directly to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and the remaining $8 redeemable on product.   For more information, or to buy a ticket, contact Justyna at 613 241 7511 ext. 2417.

2. Dress for Success Ottawa National Capital Region Professional Woman’s Networking Event. Wednesday, September 22, 4:30-7:00pm at TELUS House, 212 Slater St.

If you haven’t already heard, international non-profit organization Dress for Success has recently arrived in Ottawa.  This world-renowned organization empowers women in transition to employment through a variety of programs, including the provision of a professional wardrobe.  

A growing group of great local gals have been working hard since spring to set up a chapter right here in OTown, and are already generating great results.  In addition to several clothing drives, a golf tournament and their ongoing volunteer recruitment, DFS Ottawa will be hosting its first Professional Networking Event for Women, a fundraiser in support of this important cause.  To find out more about DFS Ottawa, or to volunteer, visit the chapter website,  Facebook page, and follow them on Twitter at @DFSOttawa. 

Tickets for the September 22 Networking Event are $40 in advance or $50 at the door, and can be purchased here.

3.  Capital Cupcake Camp 2.0. Sunday, September 26, 11:00 am- 4:00 pm at City Hall.

This girlaboutOtown missed last year’s crazy cupcake “unconference”, but I wouldn’t dare do it again!  Yup.  That’s right…I’ve gone and joined the Capital Cupcake Camp team just to be sure I get to taste at least one!

If you – like me – didn’t make it last year, more than 600 food enthusiasts gathered, almost 3400 donated cupcakes were devoured, and amidst all of this fun over $2000 were raised for Ottawa-based non-profit program Women Alive.  You curious types may want to take a look at the FLICKR pool photos. You’ll get a pretty good feel for this kooky and unique community event!   

Camp 2.0 promises to be bigger and better than last year, with a larger venue, celebrity judges and even more bakers, tasters and cupcakes!  Proceeds this year will be shared between Women Alive and the Youth Services Bureau.

Anyway, Capital Cupcake Camp 2.0 is coming up fast, but rest assured, it’s going to be great!  If you bake, and I know a few of you do, register now to contribute your cupcakes (or compete in the PRO category).  If you prefer to wait and taste, keep your eyes peeled here for the ticket sales to begin, and follow the cupcake crew on Facebook or Twitter @capitalcupcake for updates and news. 

Lastly, as an organizer, it would be quite an omission if I neglected to mention that donors, sponsors and/or Camp volunteers are always most welcome!  If you want to help out, don’t hesitate to email the Capital Cupcake Team at capitalcupcakecamp@gmail.com.

Image via Capital Cupcake Camp Pool @ Flickr

Pssst…I’ve heard the Taster tickets may be available as soon as tomorrow!