Information / Education

GirlFriends: A Portrait of Brides Through the Ages

  • March 2026

In February, the GirlFriends held a portrait of a bride luncheon. Leigh Ann Brown shared her extraordinary collection of 18 bridal gowns, some more than 100 years old. It was fascinating to see how times have changed. As part of the program, GirlFriends submitted their own bridal photos. We are so grateful to Kevin Ryan for compiling an amazing slide show that he set to music. Outstanding job, Kevin!

This month we also implemented a new process for the raffle to ensure the winners don’t forget their prizes and go home with the correct prize. Hopefully this helps.

Our numbers are growing and each month we have had several new members joining us at the luncheon. If you see them with their new member badge, please take a moment to welcome them and introduce yourself.

Also, we collected food for our neighbors at FGCU and made a monetary donation to their food bank. Thank you all who brought items to help replenish FGCU’s food pantry. The students are very appreciative of your generosity.

As you know, each month a member is awarded a specially made bracelet. This month, Jeri Greaf’s name was selected. It only took her 17 years to win one. Congrats, Jeri! We also recognize the birthdays of GirlFriends in attendance. With 180 guests, it wasn’t surprising that we had so many to celebrate: Kathy Curry, Barbara Gehlert, Gina Howe, Judy Johansen, Rachel Johnson, Linda Keyes, Carole Ann Levi, Deborah McIntire, Sharmin McKenny, Christine McPike, Mary Cay Rackers, MaryJo Sorrento, Kathy Thorsteinson, and Valerie Vazquez.

Did you know the pro shop has Grandezza GirlFriends tee shirts for sale for $25? They are available in blue, pink and gray. I’ve included a photo of Lillian Bennet modeling her new shirt.