Earlier this fall I had the opportunity to photograph Swing With The Arts held by KingsWay Community Church. I went last year as a guest and had such a blast brushing up on my swing dancing skills (…I may or may not need more practice…). KingsWay did such a great job this year setting the mood and tailoring every detail to support locals – from the band, swing instructor and artists, to the decorations and food!
Primarily, however, the event helped raise funds for KingsWay’s in-house food pantry that partners with the Feed More network – serving over 90 families in the Richmond area! Another outreach highlighted that evening was Suti Sana, a Bolivian based organization committed in helping women exiting prostitution cultivate alternative income by sewing and selling bags. It’s incredible to see people come together for a good cause and it was my joy to capture that.
Salute to Swing, out of Charlottesville, set the rhythm and accompanying crooners set the mood. I was beyond in love. The dance instructor, Doug Noel, is involved in various swing clubs around the area, often leads workshops and dances like this one, and even competes around state. Needless to say, despite your level of ability he makes you spin everywhere and feel like a pro doing it! Doug always has a smile on his face – even if you step on his feet!
It was fantastic to see such a wide range of interest and talent that night. The guys were clearly out numbered by the girls, but graciously danced all evening to give every girl a chance!
Refreshments were provided with donated gift cards by Martins, Kroger, and Costco. Coffee was provided by the phenomenal local coffee & wine cafe, Cafe Caturra. Also, local artists displayed a sampling of their work all around the foyer. A big thank you to Raleigh Hickman, Lizette Ledon, Rae LaBrie, Dyllan Shaw, Carter Stuart, and Katie Sitterson – check them out, their work is stunning!
These people. So fun.
I hope you enjoyed having a glimpse into such a fun evening as much as I did shooting it! If you can take a moment and check out the local artists and especially the mission groups mentioned, I know they’d appreciate it! Who knows, maybe a just-because-gift or shopping early for Christmas presents might just make an impact in someone’s life. You can also make a direct donation through the Bolivia Missions Foundation!
Always,
–Tara M.
2 Comments
Thank you, Tara for taking Pictures of this event. For telling others about it with your pictures and keeping the spirit of supporting these ministries. Many folks came together to pull this off and we are Thanking the Lord for their service and His blessing on the event and all who participated.
Mrya! Thank you so much, it was so fun to be a part of it. Please feel free to share this with anyone you think would be blessed by it. I hope you continue to do Swing With the Arts!