Entertainment
Orlando International Fashion Week 2023 to Take Over Orlando Oct. 29 to Nov. 5
ORLANDO, Fla. – Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of glamour, style, and creativity as Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) unfolds from October 29 to November 5, 2023. This extraordinary event promises a grand celebration of global fashion and art, with something for everyone.
A Diverse Showcase:
OIFW will feature over 30 designers from across the globe, showcasing their captivating collections. It all begins on Sunday, October 29, 2023, with the Aveda Institute Orlando Student Showcase, providing a platform for cosmetology and barber students to demonstrate their talents.
October 30: Special Guest Host Jackie Siegel:
OIFW has a special treat in store on October 30, 2023, with Jackie Siegel, known as the “Queen of Versailles,” hosting a stylish event at Westgate Lakes Resort. Jackie Siegel will bring her touch of elegance and style to this exclusive evening, featuring red carpet extravagance with interviews, an elegant atmosphere, a meet-and-greet with Jackie Siegel, and a delightful cocktail reception. The dress code for this exclusive event is “Sexy Glamour Attire.”
A Night of Red Carpet Splendor:
On November 1, 2023, prepare to be captivated at “Art and Fashion Hits Orlando City Hall.” Distinguished guests, including officials from the City of Orlando and Orange County, will attend, highlighting the event’s importance to the local community. OIFW’s international cause shines a spotlight on artisans from Santa Marta Magdalena, a city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. On November 1, 2023, jewelry and art crafted by these talented artisans will be showcased, contributing to creating opportunities and safe working environments for them.
More Special Events Throughout the Week:
November 2: FEN Social: A sponsor-hosted event promises to continue the excitement on this day, offering an engaging exploration of fashion and art.
November 3: Porsche South Orlando Event: Presented by Build Ventures, this high-profile event combines the world of high fashion with luxury cars. The evening will feature a fashion designer competition, offering a sophisticated networking and social experience. Guests can participate in live voting to choose a winner of the designer showcase.
November 4: The Castle Hotel Autograph Collection: A double delight awaits at this venue, featuring two shows. First, at 1 p.m., the Kids and Teens Runway Show offers an array of youthful creativity. Later, at 6 p.m., the much-anticipated Fashion Night Out will take center stage.
November 5: The Grand Finale at the Citrus Club: As the week culminates, a grand finale at The Citrus Club will feature brunch runway shows and dinner. As a model spotlight, Jackie Siegel will grace the runway in one of three runway shows that day. The highlight of the evening will be the showcasing of JOVANI, an international brand known for its timeless elegance.
For tickets and additional information, visit: OrlandoFashionWeek.org
Central Florida News
Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs Presents ‘HYPE HAIR’ Exhibit by Peppermint Sandy in Downtown Orlando
Entertainment
USF Credit Union Named Presenting Sponsor of ‘Rainbow To Your Door’ With $5,000 Challenge Match Grant
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The production team behind Rainbow To Your Door announced that USF Credit Union has joined the upcoming theatrical production as its Presenting Sponsor, accompanied by a $5,000 Challenge Match Grant aimed at encouraging community support and helping fully fund the project.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to arts, education, and community engagement across Central Florida. Organizers say the challenge grant will match community contributions dollar-for-dollar up to $5,000, helping expand public access and educational opportunities connected to the production.
Original Play Celebrates Florida’s Artistic Legacy
Rainbow To Your Door is an original stage production written by Los Angeles-based playwright Kenneth Brown. The play is inspired by the historic friendship and artistic exchange between acclaimed author and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston and artist Jules André Smith.
Set in 1938 at the historic Maitland Art Center, the production explores the challenges, triumphs, and purpose of artists navigating a rapidly changing world while preserving their creative voices.
“This partnership represents more than sponsorship. It is an investment in storytelling, culture, and preserving the legacy of artistic voices that helped shape Florida’s creative identity,” Brown said. “We are incredibly grateful to USF Credit Union for believing in this vision and helping us create meaningful community impact through the arts.”
Challenge Match Campaign Aims to Fully Fund Production
As part of the sponsorship, USF Credit Union will provide a $5,000 Challenge Match Grant to encourage community participation and charitable giving. Production organizers say that once the matching goal is reached, Rainbow To Your Door will be fully funded.
Donations generated through the campaign will support expanded accessibility initiatives, educational programming, community outreach, and audience engagement efforts associated with the production.
“USF Credit Union is proud to support initiatives that enrich the communities we serve,” said Rick Skaggs, CEO of USF Credit Union. “Rainbow To Your Door reflects the power of culture, education, and the arts to inspire meaningful conversations and strengthen community connections.”
Production Scheduled for October 2026
Media relations and promotional efforts for the production are being coordinated by Fierce Entertainment.
Rainbow To Your Door is scheduled for Oct. 10–11, 2026, at the Timucua Arts Foundation in Orlando.
Additional information regarding ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and the community challenge campaign will be announced in the coming weeks.
Media Contact:
Rob Henlon
Fierce Entertainment
rob@alwaysfierce.com
For sponsorship information and production updates, visit Rainbow To Your Door.
Central Florida News
FNN Honors Teen Reporter Isabella Schmitt as She Graduates and Pursues Communications Degree
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News proudly celebrates Isabella Schmitt as she marks an important milestone with her high school graduation and prepares to begin an exciting new chapter pursuing Communications in college.
Over the years, Isabella has represented the next generation of young voices with professionalism, creativity, determination, and passion.
Through reporting opportunities, community involvement, and media experiences, she has continued to shine both on and off camera while inspiring others through her dedication and work ethic.
Jenny Rosario, Vice President of Florida National News, praised Isabella’s accomplishments and bright future ahead.
“Watching Isabella grow both personally and professionally has been truly inspiring,” Rosario said. “She represents the future of journalism, communications, and storytelling. Her passion, confidence, and commitment to making a positive impact through media are remarkable, and we are incredibly proud of all she has accomplished.”
Rosario added that Isabella’s decision to pursue Communications in college is a natural next step for someone with such strong talent and determination.
“The world of media and communications needs more young voices like Isabella’s,” Rosario said. “We know this is only the beginning of many great accomplishments to come.”
Florida National News congratulates Isabella Schmitt and the entire Class of 2026 on this exciting achievement.
“Keep dreaming big and telling stories that matter,” Rosario added.
