Event date: 15 February 2025
Guest Speaker: Nadine Higgins
Event Client: Dress for Success Auckland
Event Planner: Vision and Event driven by Catherine Cooke, supported by the team at Allely Estate.
The Sisterhood Dream team: Bridgette Jackson, Karla Byrnes, Katie West, Desiree Todd, Stephanie Armstrong, Nickie Jones, Kirstien Taylor & Robyn Moore, CEO for Dress for Success Auckland and her team
Photographer: Hapfilm Photographers & Videographers
Entertainment: The ABBA Gals from Showtime aka Gary Brown as Austin Powers
Styling: Event Styling
Flowers: Country Blooms
Full Photo Gallery: HERE
Sisterhood in Action:
Rallying Together for a Vision, Delivering Flawless Execution
The Dress for Success Auckland Ladies Mediterranean Long Lunch at Allely Estate, with Nadine Higgins as MC, was envisioned by Catherine Cooke and brought to life alongside Dress for Success CEO Robyn Moore early November 2024. However, on 20 November 2024, Catherine was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. Despite this, Robyn never once pressured her to continue—yet Catherine never once considered stepping away, driven by an unwavering determination and the knowledge that so many women depended on the success of this event.
With a rallying call for support from friend of a friend, Bridgette Jackson, a powerful sisterhood came together, meeting fortnightly to secure donors and sponsors, sell tickets, advertise, drive the collection of gently loved and new clothing, and be exactly where they were needed at the right time. Just as in the August 2024 event, the women who attended embodied a deep commitment to community, sisterhood, support, and connection—giving back in the most meaningful way.
Thrown into the deep end of auctioneering, Nadine Higgins (by day, Financial Advisor at enable.me) took on the role of not only MC but also live auctioneer—a novice, yet undeniably successful—reminding everyone that there were no bargains on the floor. Once again, this event exceeded all expectations—financially, emotionally, and through an overwhelming outpouring of love and generosity.
Against the Odds: Smashing Expectations and Building a Lasting Impact
We won’t lie—while our last Dress for Success Auckland event in August 2024 sold out in just three weeks (right in the eye of the economic storm), this time around was challenging. Selling tickets and running a clothing drive during the summer holiday period, when many were away or focused on vacations, made gaining traction incredibly stressful.
But what transpired was nothing short of extraordinary. Thanks to the amazing sisterhood who canvased high and low, our incredible Sponsors and Donors, we secured 46 auction items, generating much-needed revenue of $20,000—and we still have more to sell! On top of that, we collected over 2,000 items of gently loved or new clothing and accessories for women in need. And the impact didn’t stop there.
BONUS: New friendships were formed through this powerful sisterhood.
BIGGER BONUS: New sponsors have stepped forward, eager to continue the journey with Dress for Success Auckland.
One could say we didn’t just smash ticket sales—we created lasting, positive change that will continue well beyond this event.
A Mediterranean Feast, ABBA Nostalgia, and the Power of Giving
From the moment guests arrived, dressed in bright summer hues, the air was filled with excitement, anticipation, and a shared sense of purpose. Many were straight to the silent auction table bidding on what they had their sights on, continuous laughter and conversation and securing their refreshments before taking their seats in Allely Estate’s marquee. The Mediterranean feast was a celebration in itself—each dish a tribute to flavour, warmth, and generosity, much like the spirit of the afternoon. The food was such a credit to our chefs from the taste and presentation one could easily feel transported back to the Mediterranean.
Then came the ABBA gals, transporting everyone back to an era of carefree joy. As their voices filled the room, guests couldn’t resist the pull of nostalgia—singing, swaying, and again after the auctions and final serving of dessert many were up dancing together, just like old times when life was simple, and friendship was everything.
But beyond the laughter, music, and incredible food, the heart of this gathering was giving. Every auction bid placed, and every item of gently loved or new clothing donated was a lifeline to women striving for a fresh start. The generosity in the room was overwhelming proof that when women rally together, they don’t just celebrate; they uplift, empower, and create real change.
There is no disputing this was an afternoon of connection, sisterhood, and impact—a beautiful reminder in storms we can dance, dine, and reminisce, and provide the greatest joy that comes from giving back and lifting others along the way.
Empowering Women, Creating Change: The Impact of Dress for Success Auckland and Kirsten’s $20,000 Win
Robyn Moore, CEO for Dress for Success Auckland, took to the stage and spoke about the profound impact the organisation has in helping women move forward with support and resources when they have lost all hope. She shared successful and moving stories of how Dress for Success Auckland has transformed lives.
A highlight of the day was Kirsten from Dress for Success sharing the incredible update of the $20,000 win from Westfield. She had mentioned at the previous event at Allely Estate asking for votes and she won. Her success as a Local Hero not only contributed a significant sum to Dress for Success Auckland but also symbolised the power of community support and the ripple effect of giving.
Empowering Women, Creating Change: The Impact of Dress for A Grateful Acknowledgment to Our Sponsors, Partners, and Donors
This event would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our incredible sponsors, partners, and donors. Your unwavering generosity and dedication to our cause have been instrumental in bringing this event to life. Whether through financial contributions, donations, or the provision of essential resources, we are deeply appreciative of your involvement. Together, we’ve created something truly extraordinary, and your contribution has made a lasting difference in the lives of many women.
Thank you to our Sponsors
Wardrobes Direct | MONDAY Haircare | Allely Estate | Wine Time | Woodvale Lodge | Moneyfit.me | Juara Oceania | Curious AF | The Engine
Thank you to our Partners
Hapfilm Photography & Videography | Country Blooms | ABBA GALS – Stage 51 | Event Styling Co
Some of the amazing Donors
Aneia Warner Salon | Caci | Studio Pilates Kumeu | Equal Exes | Brow Love Boutique | Pupuke Golf Course | ZUBU | Anne Batley Burton – The Champagne Lady | Wallace Cotton | Saben | Lion Beverages | The Sisters Wine | Country Blooms
Looking Ahead: The Exciting Future of Our Events
The remarkable success of these amazing Dress for Success Auckland events always has guests asking that one burning question: “When is the next event?” While we originally thought of making the Dress for Success an annual event – we have now done two inside of 6 months. The narrative is clear — our community want to gather more often!
And gather more often we are —we’re already planning and advertising more in-house events! First up, we’ll be hosting our Inaugural Long Italian Lunch on Sunday 16 March 2025, followed by a special charity fundraiser. Catherine Cooke, Co-Owner of Allely Estate, will host a Pink Ribbon Brunch alongside Ah-Leen Rayner, CEO of the Breast Cancer Foundation. This event aims to raise awareness and generate significant funds ($40,000) to support the fight against breast cancer. The journey doesn’t stop here, and we’re excited to continue bringing people together for causes that matter!
Allely Estate: The Heart, Soul, and Success of Community Events and Celebrations
The success of the Dress for Success Auckland events, along with others like it, reflects not only the generosity of our guests but also the passion, expertise, and dedication of Allely Estate as your venue partner. Whether it’s a charity fundraiser, a wedding, or a corporate gathering, we take pride in curating experiences that create lasting memories. Drawing from our extensive network of vendors, businesses, and friends, we bring additional resources to ensure every event is a success. If you’re seeking a venue with a proven track record for delivering excellence, we’d love to help bring your next event to life.
Celebrating the Strength of Our Sisterhood: A Heartfelt Thank You
Our sisterhood is built on unwavering commitment to supporting other women, no matter the circumstances. Together we brought positivity, hope and certainty into our whare and our community, offering strength to those who need it most.
With a shared dream and a song to sing, we set out to create something truly special, and together, we smashed our vision, raising funds that will directly benefit over 80 women. The impact of this event is immeasurable, and we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to help make a difference. We can’t wait to welcome you back again.
Through the collective power of this incredible sisterhood, we truly are the difference between night and day for so many. It is both a privilege and an honour to walk alongside you in creating such meaningful and empowering events that give a sense of purpose for so many.
Are you planning a corporate event, team building, product launch, charity day, or celebration?
Contact info@allelyestate.co.nz to get locked in.
A Special Thank You to:
