Local environmentalist Sara Sansom is always looking for ways to divert waste from the landfill. She regularly raises money for the North Columbia Environmental Society as well as other environmental organizations.
Her newest project aims to bring the community together through a “trashion show” – a fashion show where all of the pieces are to be made entirely out of items headed for the trash or recycling bin.
While Sansom's 'trashion' fundraiser is new to Revelstoke, she says it isn't her original idea.
“Being in the beauty industry correlates with the fashion industry, and lately I've been really interested in reading about ethical fashion and how ethical clothes are made,” said Sansom, who owns Birch & Lace Salon.
Through her research, she came across information about a trashion show that was being hosted as a fundraiser.
“I thought 'how brilliant!' I thought it showcased what we're doing here [at Birch & Lace], and it would be a cool way to do a fundraiser,” she said. “I really like fashion shows.”
Funds raised through the Trashion Show will go to the North Columbia Environmental Society, as well as to WaterAid. WaterAid is an organization that works on bringing practical sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene projects to various communities. The funds raised will go specifically to Madagascar.
While it is a “fashion” show, Sansom says the goal is more about creating an inclusive community fundraiser with lots of participation.
“The more the merrier, because it's a fundraiser. It's fun, it's casual. I'm encouraging teens, families, kids, anyone,” she said.
The rules are simple: Keep it PG as it is a family friendly event (e.g. everything covered). It has to be honest trash (something already headed for the garbage or recycling.)
It costs $25 to enter an item and for anyone wanting to do a 'collection,' each additional outfit is $10 to enter.
For spectators, entrance to the Trashion Show is $10. Tickets include 25 per cent off in the new soap dispensery at Birch & Lace. The dispensary includes cleaning and beauty products which can be purchased in bulk.
In addition, funds will also be raised through a raffle. Tickets for the raffle are $25 and the winner will receive $800 worth of products from Birch & Lace. There will also be prizes for winners of the Trashion Show.
The show takes place this Sunday, April 24, at 3 p.m. on the Rockford Patio at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Entry forms and tickets can be purchased at Birch & Lace at 113 Second St. East.