First Communions take to the runway

Andover - It may not be as big as a wedding, but for some girls a communion comes close. For parents and families, a child’s first Holy Communion is an important milestone ...but one that brings its own special challenges. There is so much to consider; figuring the invite list, the location of the party, the caterer, maybe a DJ, accommodations, the flowers, and of course, the little one’s attire. To make things a little easier for parents, Buckles and Bows and Exquisite Bride are sponsoring a Communion Fashion Show starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21 at Perona Farms. The show will feature more than 20 dresses by designer Katina Katoo, and include shoes, veils, headpieces, gloves and accessories. Area vendors will also take part in the show, including Sparta Flowers Global Productions, an entertainment company, Salon Encore, and J. Thomas Jewelers, who are lending jewelry for the show. “It’s a fun day for the kids, it will be an opportunity to get them excited about their options, and it makes for a great mother-daughter day, especially in January when there’s not much else going on,” said Dana Sabatino, owner of Buckles and Bows. Organizers of the event believe parents will find it beneficial and time saving to have all the necessary services for a successful first communion under one roof. “I think the day will give them a bird’s eye view of what is available and to see the entire collection,” said Bunny Matthius, owner of Exquisite Bride. “It’s more fun than ordering it from a catalog, which is what many shops will do,” Many of the vendors will be offering coupons and gifts as well as discounts on pre-orders. “Basically, you’re getting the cost of your ticket back plus more with the coupons,” said Sabatino. Tickets are $20 per adult and $10 per child, which includes a continental breakfast and a gift bag. Tickets will be available at the door, but for reservations, call 973-729-9933.