FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2019 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY THE DUNCAN DUO FOUNDATION
Fulfill Your Destiny is announcing our 2019 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea, our signature event on Mar 30, 2019 returning again to the beautiful Empress Tea Room located at 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, FL, a locally owned and operated elegant Tea Room and Event Dining venue. Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2019 Spring Chari-Tea will be 2:30 – 5:00 PM on Saturday, Mar 30, 2019. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
WE’RE DELIGHTED TO SHARE THAT OUR 6TH ANNUAL SIGNATURE EVENT, FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2019 SPRING CHARI-TEA IS PRESENTED BY THE DUNCAN DUO FOUNDATION AS OUR TITLE TEAPOT SPONSOR
SHOWCASING OUR TEACUP SPONSORS
SHARING OUR OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
SHARING OUR OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
INTRODUCING OUR ICED TEA SPONSORS
AER Consulting, Inc., Answered Prayers Project, Circle Pond Tiny Home Community, Dawn Bowers-Ferrara, Jody Avery, P.A., Marketing Director on Call, Merchant Insurance Solutions, Oceanview Travels, Pilot Bank, Sweet Soap Confections, Thomas G CPA, LLC, and Willow Healing.
100 career women interested in supporting our greater Tampa Bay community through philanthropy will attend for a celebration of women for charity with tea. It’s not just tea; its Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea! Please RSVP early as we sell out each year!
Please bring several business cards with you as there’s wonderful networking at Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea.
Each year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea is a very nice way to celebrate Women’s History Month. March is also National Brain Injury Awareness Month and it’s when we celebrate the arrival of Spring.
We’ll have Live Auctions, Silent Auctions, Surprise Totes, Raffles, ‘Table Stakes’ Chari-Tea Style, and a few other nice surprises.
We’ll have several Silent Auction items available for bidding.
We’ll have a separate Jewelry Raffle for a .25 K Total Weight Round Brilliant Diamond 4 Leaf Clover Cluster Pendant set in 14K White Gold on a .50 mm 14K White Gold Cable Rope Chain with Total Value of $508.00 donated by the Gold and Diamond Source and Hands Across the Bay. Raffle tickets for this stunning jewelry will be 1 for $20, 3 for $50, and 7 for a $100 donation.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with 20 high quality and unique prizes. Tickets for the ‘your choice’ Raffle will be available with 10 tickets for a $20 donation.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a 50-50 Raffle with 5 tickets available for a $20 donation.
Elegant Hats designed locally by Gidget Fisher will be available for a $20 donation.
While guests enjoy a fabulous High Tea which includes 3-tiered plates with scrumptious tea sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts, everyone will have opportunities to visit the Silent Auction tables, participate in our Jewelry Raffle, participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle, participate in the 50-50 Raffle, and select their favorite Elegant Hats by Gidget Fisher.
Guests will enjoy each other’s company as well as meet new friends and mingle while selecting one-of-a-kind teapot centerpieces with fresh floral arrangements available to take home by suggested donation.
Back by Request! Guests will have the opportunity to select Surprise Totes filled with unique items each with value at least double the requested donation for these totes. Surprise Totes will be available for donations in the amounts of $50 (at least $100 value), $75 (at least $150 value), and $100 (at least $200 value). Each Surprise Tote will be one-of-a-kind and very special!
A Favorite Returns! We’ll be having ‘Table Stakes’ Chari-Tea Style, where guests will have just minutes to try and win some beautiful prizes that are being donated by On Point Executive Center.
We’ll hold three optional Hat Contests: Prettiest, Most Creative, and Vintage. Prizes will be awarded to the three winners. Pilot Bank, returns as our Hat Contest Sponsor, graciously donating three (3) $250 Certificate of Deposits (CDs) and Gift Baskets, one (1) CD and Gift Basket to each of our three Hat Contest Winners!
Ladies interested in supporting our community through philanthropy will attend for Great Food, Auctions, 50-50 Raffle, Surprises, Hat Contests, Prizes, ‘Your Choice’ Raffles, Free Gifts and Fun! All attendees will receive a FREE gift for attending Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2019 Spring Chari-Tea.
Fulfill Your Destiny will be awarding our Business Builder Grants. Please have your cameras and tissues ready!
Please contact Karen directly at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by calling her at (813) 533-1963 for sponsorship and reservations or for more information.
LIVE AUCTION
We’ll culminate the afternoon with our Live Auction. This year we’ve received the following 11 donations for our Live Auction:
1) SOLD!!!! Besito West Shore donated ‘A Taste of Mexico with 3 of your closet Maestros!’ “Your Besito experience includes our “Chefs” personal selection of appetizers, entrees, dessert and a few take home surprises. From the Bar, enjoy a tequila flight tasting and a selection of our signature Margaritas.” This Bestio Mexican Dining Experience has a value of $350 and the minimum starting bid is $100.*
2) Clutter No More! Simplify and organize your life with the “Gift of Organization” to save time, reduce stress, enjoy peace of mind! PerfecTiming Concierge has donated an organizing/decluttering session for one indoor room or closet. Package is valued at $500 and the minimum starting bid is $150.*
3) SOLD!!!! Tampa Bay Lightning Brayden Point Autographed Hockey Stick. Brayden Point ranks #2 in all of the NHL’s top goal scorers. The minimum starting bid is $150.
4) In Home Cooking Class and Dining Experience with Wine Pairing for up to 6 People with The Food Whisperer, Holistic Chef Adrienne Falcone Godsell. Includes Wine, Hands On Instruction, Recipes, and Clean Up. Valid through 6/30/19. This package has a value of $475 and the minimum starting bid is $150.*
5) One Zoom Deluxe Laser Teeth Whitening System paired with an Oral B Genius Professional Exclusive Rechargeable Toothbrush donated by The Family Dentist. This package has a value of $750 and the minimum starting bid is $250.*
6) A Month of Jewelry! A Different Piece of Jewelry for Every Day of the Month! A jewelry case from HSN holds 31 different beautiful pieces of jewelry donated from many including diamond jewelry, a necklace from Morocco, and fabulous custom pieces. The jewelry is valued at over $1,000 and the minimum starting bid is $250.*
7) Have you ever wanted to record a custom track? This prize might be for you! Work with an award winning engineer in a custom built studio located in Clearwater, FL equipped with all the latest gear. Doug Johnson has been producing music for over 25 years and has worked with some of the greatest singers, songwriters and musicians nationwide. This package includes 18 hours of recording and engineering time, fine tuning your tracks and formatting them into digital content for your use. This package has a value of $1200 and is good through 3/2020. The minimum starting bid is $300.*
8) Exclusive Family Portrait plus Luxury 5 Diamond Hotel Stay in New York or Palm Beach. Be photographed by World Renowned Bradford in either his New York or Palm Beach location. Package includes a 20” wall portrait on canvas with lavish artistry plus a one night stay at either the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Westchester or the 5 Diamond, 5 Star Eau Resort in Palm Beach (formerly the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach). Certificate valid through 9/30/2019. This package has a value of $5,500 and the minimum starting bid is $300.*
9) Time for Me – Karen’s Ultimate Pampering and Relaxation Collection includes 2 x 1-Hour Custom Massages from Willow Healing; 1 x Blow Dry & Brow from Belmora Salon & Spa; 1–Hour Reflexology from Sam Belyea, the Foot Whisperer; 3 x Packages of Shampoo, Blow Dry & Style, an additional VIP Hair and Makeup, Full Set of Eyelash Extensions, and 1x Spray Tan from Eyes on You; Lancôme’s Parisian Case with 11 Full-Size Products; an Eye Mask and Cozy Slipper Socks. This collection has a value of $1,200 and the minimum starting bid is $300.*
10) Enjoy Homosassa by Water hosted by Kathy & Gary Alford. Up to 4 people, children are encouraged as they love it! Your Homosassa Getaway includes: 1- Night Stay in Private Home right on Homosassa River, Home Prepared Dinner & Breakfast with Lunch on the Boat. You can arrive on a Friday or Saturday afternoon (your choice) to Swim with the Manatees, Scallop, Fish, Kayak, Paddleboard and/or Float on the River. You can customize your Getaway how you’d like. This Live Auction experience has a value of $1500 and the minimum starting bid is $500.*
11) Club Med 4-night land only vacation for you & a guest at one of the following resorts: Club Med Cancun Yucatan, Mexico; Club Med Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico; Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Florida; and Club Med Turkoise, Turks & Caicos. Click here to view Videos of Resorts.
What’s included:
• Full-board Gourmet Cuisine: Your meals and refreshments are included in your package. Nothing to prepare, no shopping lists, no schedules, no budgeting, just the pleasure of fine food. From breakfast to dinner, everything is included in your package – even snacks in between.
• Children Clubs for ages 4-17: Kids clubs made just for you! At Club Med kids will never get bored. Both morning and night classes are offered, giving parents piece of mind. From sailing, flying trapeze and tennis, there is endless sports and activities to keep kids entertained.
• Unlimited water & land sports
• Open bar & snacking: Day or night, unlimited (but always in moderation) alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included in your package. No need to worry about the check, while you sip fresh mango juice by the pool, or enjoy a mango cocktail on the beach.
• Free Unlimited Wi-Fi: Now at Club Med, connecting with your loved ones is easier than ever! Enjoy FREE internet access throughout your vacation from any device anywhere on the resort including any room category with FREE WIFI.
• Day & Night Entertainment
This Club Med vacation package is valued at $1,600 and the minimum starting bid is $800.*
* Please contact Karen in advance for ‘Buy It Now’ donations and options on any of our Live Auction items.
AUCTIONS & RAFFLE PRIZES
Thank you to our Auction and Raffle Prize Donors (listed alphabetically):
Academic Alliance in Dermatology; Alicia Campos; All Access Recording; Allison Figerola; Amy Kowalski, Park Lane Jewelry; Answered Prayers Project; Aveda Level Salon Spa; Awesome Jewelry; Belmora Salon & Spa; BeneFab Sore No More; Besito Mexican Westshore; Big Tires & More; Bradford Portraits; Bulla Gastrobar; Burns Family Tree of Life; Cabot Creamery Cooperative; Charles Visalli, Time for Wine; Chroma Studio Custom Metal & Graphic Design; Cindy Herzog; Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant; Creation Solace Solutions, LLC; D – K Planners & Designs; Dancing Glass Beadworks; Datz Restaurant Group; DSW; Dunkin’ Donuts; Earring Holder Gallery; Edith Hicks, Premiere Designs; Elba Rivera, Mary Kay; Essence of Laurel; Eyes on You Salon & Spa; First Watch; Gail McCoy Art; Hands Across the Bay; Hyde Park Kendra Scott; International Plaza Mall; Invent Your Image; James Schuler, Jeanique; Jessica Santiago; Jewelry Designs by Carol Anne; John Mroczek; Journey into Color Photography by Kathy Lerche; June Kittay; Karen Gillman; Karen Mertes; Kathy & Gary Alford; Kendra Scott; Kilroy Krafts; L’Bella Style Lounge; Lacquerware by Linda; Lady Fish Designs; Leanne Duncan, Rodan + Fields; Maggiano’s Little Italy; Magnolia and Vine – Carole Stanton; Mantra Fitness; Margit’s Fine Art; Marie Gregorio, Century 21 List with Beggins; Marie Rosenbaum; Memory Glass Art; Michael Harvey; Mudd Pottery; Ocean of Gold, Inc.; Oceanview Travels; One2StyleU; On Point Executive Center; Patty Adams; PerfecTiming Concierge; Pilot Bank; Platinum Panache Design; Quotography by Sean and Emma; Rashae Doyle, MPAS, PA-C; Refocus Studio; Retrose; Robinson MD Functional & Concierge Medicine; Sea Beans with Style; Seasons 52; Sew Be It; Stacy Miller; Steve Vaughn Tropics Gallery; Stitch-n-Chicks; Stocking Stuffer Station Crafts by Gloria; Tampa Bay Lightning; The Dessert Spot; The Family Dentist; The Florida Orchestra; The Food Whisperer; The Foot Whisperer Reflexology Institute; The Healthy Dose Organics; Tina Brunsman; Toffee to Go; Unique Fabric Creations; Valerie Romas; Wendy Witchner Jewelry; and Willow Healing.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR 2019 SPRING CHARI-TEA
That was AMAZING!!! Thank you for letting us be part of it! So much love, Brittany Turner
Congratulations to Karen Mertes & Fulfill Your Destiny on a successful 2019 Fulfill Your Destiny Spring Chari-Tea! – Kelly Flannery
Karen has passion and purpose…and she kindly shares of herself and her talents freely! Thank you, Karen! – Debbie Lundberg
Karen Mertes you are amazing! Thank you for all you do and on another successful event. We had to get a mother/daughter picture (you can tell Layla is much happier without a hat). – Gwynn Davey
Fulfill Your Destiny Spring Chari-Tea is the highlight of the spring season for me. – Allie Serrano
I really have to thank you for such a lovely time. I felt such joy and high vibrations being surrounded by all the details and beautiful intent you put into this event. – Dawn Bowers-Ferrara
Honored & grateful to have received a Business Builder Grant from an amazing charity and founder – Karen Mertes Fulfill Your Destiny. In addition she granted 6 amazing women, at her 6th Annual Signature Chari-Tea, with BBG. It again was an amazing event filled with fun and fantastic hats. – Lisa Ford
Congratulations Karen Mertes and Fulfill Your Destiny on another fun and successful Spring Chari-Tea event!!! Honoring and donating to 6 small business women … raising a hand up! – Effie Santos
What an amazing event! I’m so happy it all went so smoothly. It was my favorite one so far! I was happy to be there with you! – Marie Rosenbaum
I am so proud to be able to offer a portrait session to Christina Moore, a Business Builder Grant winner along with Cynthia Ierardi Keenan. Thank you Karen Mertes for making it possible! And another Thank you for the amazing HERO – Hands Eagerly Reach Out Award. I am so proud and thankful for receiving this award. – Allie Serrano
Thank you #fulfillyourdestiny for such a wonderful event. Karen you are a light in our community. Thank you for your generous donation to #answeredprayersproject #sewntogether – Elizabeth Vander Ploeg
Great event Karen Mertes. I enjoyed it every year, especially the BBG awards. Thank you for all you do. – Debra Palmer
Congratulations Karen on a wonderfully successful 2019 Fulfill Your Destiny Spring Chari-Tea! It is absolutely one of my favorite events of the year! A heartfelt thank you to Karen Mertes who inspires, motivates, educates and is making a difference in the community we live! #fulfillyourdestiny – Jodi Avery
Invent Your Image I am honored and elated receiving Fulfill Your Destiny 2019 Spring Chari-Tea BBG. Thanks Karen Mertes for all you do for our community. – Lisa Ford
Had a great time at the Tea. So enjoyed seeing soooo many friends there. – Anita Ramirez
What a great event! Thank you Karen Mertes for sharing your love and talent and hard work with women business owners in Tampa Bay! – Stacy Miller
Another wonderful #FulfillYourDestiny Spring Chari-Tea! A special thank you to Starr Elaine with Shining Star Insurance for having us as her guests again this year! – Kathie Miley
Gemma Thomas Looking good. I was in Boston but was happy to be a sponsor again this year and will continue to sponsor such an amazing charity. – Gemma Thomas
Such a fun event for supporting dreams. – Anita Tearney
So awesome loved every minute – Kathy Alford
I wanted to take a minute to say thank you very much for inviting me to be part of Fulfill Your Destiny. The Chari-Tea was a fabulous event. So many dynamic uplifting women.
I wanted to thank you for believing in me, my business and my mission to share the health with flavor to as many people as I can reach and providing me with the ability to reach even more people now. – Adrienne Falcone Godsell
Thank you so much for an incredible event! It definitely WOWed me and I’m thankful to be a sponsor this year. I know our team had such a fun time! And I know now about the purses; missed out on a beautiful one! – Angela Duncan
I enjoy it every year, especially the BBG awards. Thank you for all you do. – Debra Palmer
Always so much fun spending this special day together each year and witnessing how more amazing it gets!!! – Marie Rosenbaum
Thank you Starr Tyrka for inviting me to this event for another year! We all had a blast and FULFILL YOUR DESTINY INC is such a worthy non-profit that gives back to women in our community! Thank you again Karen Mertes for you turning your horrible accident into a triumph for others always being a champion for their dreams! – Marilyn Westropp
Loved it and all that you represent. – Dawn Bowers-Ferrara
Such a wonderful event! So honored to be a part of this! – Lynn Valaes
Always a pleasure and I always get a great purse!!! – Penny Rogo
It was an awesome event! – Kristina Wehlau
Such an amazing woman and what a great cause. #fulfillyourdestiny Chari Tea – The Food Whisperer
So much fun spending time with friends and family! – Kathie Miley
I had the most wonderful time!! – Dawn Bowers-Ferrara
Being a TBI thriver myself and having to reinvent my life, Karen Mertes and her mission with #FulfillYourDestiny is a blessing to not only to the Tampa Bay Community, but also to the TBI community and small businesses across Tampa Bay. Thank you Fulfill Your Destiny and Karen Mertes for all you do. – Adrienne Falcone Godsell
Such a dynamic group of women present at the Tea. Thank you Fulfill Your Destiny. – The Food Whisperer
OMG, you ALL look fabulous here. Congratulations on another successful year of Chari-Tea – Samantha Bond Richman
HIGHLIGHTS FROM FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2018 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY WILLIAMS CONSULTING GROUP
The first highlight from our 2018 Spring Chari-Tea was hearing from Rachel Revill of PerfecTiming Concierge about what being awarded a $1,000 Business Builder Grant from Fulfill Your Destiny and sponsored by Teri Morrow of My Benefit Partners at our 2017 Spring Chari-Tea last year has meant to her and her business .
“The grant answered my prayers” to get professional advice to be able to improve my business. “My team and I have gone to another level. With the help of Ashley Grant, the other recipient of Fulfill Your Destiny’s Business Builder Grant at last year’s Spring Chari-Tea, our business has gained additional exposure. Thanks for helping me fly.” ~ Rachel Revill, PerfecTiming Concierge
A second highlight was hearing from Lynn Valaes, Wise Women Fitness, who received her $1,000 Business Builder Grant last month in partnership with the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by American Momentum Bank. “Entrepreneurs are challenged daily with ups and downs. I’ll be using this grant to purchase a new piece of equipment for my fitness studio.” ~ Lynn Valaes, Wise Women Fitness
A third highlight was presenting a $1,000 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Business Builder Grant sponsored by Independent Financial Services to Clemmie Perry, Women of Color Golf. Ms. Clemmie had used her severance pay from a defense contractor job that had lost its government contract to start her organization four years ago but “just as the business was growing, I ended up losing about 50 percent of my hearing.” ~ Clemmie Perry, Women of Color Golf
A fourth highlight from our 2018 Spring Chari-Tea was awarding the inaugural Fulfill Your Destiny’s Business Builder Grant in honor of Josephine Mason, Personal Banker at American Momentum Bank to Tina Brunsman, Sweet Soap Confections. Tina started her business, one that she could even do with her young daughters, after a family tragedy that had devastated this single mother at the time. She’s doing much better now but she hasn’t yet reached the dreams and goals she has for her business desiring to have a website and take her products online. She’s always spoken proudly about her business and she’s ready for more. She’s ready for her next level to fulfill her destiny.
Tina shared, “So honored to be awarded the Fulfill Your Destiny Business Builder Grant! I went to my dear friend’s event thinking I was just going to enjoy some tea and learn about her organization. Little did I know that I was going to be one of the grant recipients! What a complete surprise and amazing afternoon! Thank you, Karen Mertes!” ~ Tina Brunsman, Sweet Soap Confections
A fifth highlight from our 2018 Spring Chari-Tea was presenting Sylvia Allen with a ‘new to her’ Mercury Mariner, a car big enough to transport her business equipment. Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success partnered to make this happen when Fulfill Your Destiny donated $3,000 to Wheels of Success for their ‘Build a Car’ program. For the fourth year in a row, Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have partnered to present a local woman with a car at Fulfill Your Destiny’s annual Spring Chari-Tea.
Sylvia shared, “I am so grateful. Thanks again for making it possible for me to fulfill my destiny.” ~ Sylvia Allen, ‘New to Her’ Car Recipient at 2018 Spring Chari-Tea
Thank you to our 2018 Teapot Title Sponsor, Williams Consulting Group and our other 34 very generous sponsors as well as all the beautiful ladies that attended our annual signature event. Together we positively impacted several entrepreneurs and changed lives!
Fulfill Your Destiny recognizes people and companies who have helped further our mission of helping others by presenting them with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award – ‘Hands Eagerly Reach Out’ to help others when and where needed. This year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award was presented to Carolyn Eastman of Seven Marketing & PR.
Carolynn Eastman of Seven Marketing & PR was presented with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award for repeatedly making connections and showcasing Fulfill Your Destiny in unique ways that have helped us further our mission of helping others.
SAVE THE DATE: MARCH 30, 2019
Who will be honored next year at our Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2019 Spring Chari-Tea on Mar 30, 2019 at The Empress Tea Room 2:30 – 5:15 PM? It’s never too early to sponsor and make your reservations to attend our 6th Annual signature event. We’ve sold out each year! Please contact Karen Mertes at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by phone at (813) 533-1963 for more info.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR 2018 SPRING CHARI-TEA
“Great event – would love to be back next year!” – Cynthia Ochal
“Diane McKelvey invited me in 2017. I will come back and donate as generously as I can as long as you host this amazing event. Thank you for what you do and the example you are!” – Brooke May
“Karen – You are a God send! Thank you for all you do! Please put us down as a sponsor next year!” – Effie Santos
“Love all you do!” – D’Anna Beltran
“Karen, I would love to be a sponsor next year! Please remind me next year! As always, it has been a pleasure to attend and support Fulfill Your Destiny!” – Cassandra D’Addio
“This is my second year to this event and I find it so inspiring! Thank you for all you do!!! – Stacey Schmidt
“I think the teapot idea with the flowers was brilliant!!” – Elisabeth Butterfield
“Karen, I am honored to be a part of your Fulfill Your Destiny mission.” – Allie Serrano
“Congratulations on a wonderful, successful event. It is always a pleasure working with you. You are such an inspiration.” – Cecilia ‘C’ Jeffery
“This evening has truly been amazing. So many powerful women all together supporting each other!” – Touch of Laser by Kendall Lindsay
“A beautiful day celebrating the mission and raising funds for Fulfill Your Destiny! Such a worthy cause supporting women! Karen Mertes you are an inspiration!” – Effie Santos
“Enjoying the Chari-Tea. Congrats to the Business Builder Grant recipients. Luv this event.” – Jeannie Holliday
“Fabulous work in our community 
at the annual Chari-Tea event ” – Helen Cowie Davis
”Another phenomenal Fulfill Your Destiny Chari-Tea. Thanks to Karen Mertes who has a heart of Gold. The impact of her vision to empower women is immense. Congratulations to the Business Builder Grant recipients. Loved being in the presence of women radiating light, generosity, joy, sisterhood.” – Rachel Revill
“One of my absolutely favorite events to attend every year is the Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea at the beautiful Empress Tea Room! Karen Mertes is sincere, generous and passionate about helping others and truly has a heart of gold!!!! The core motto of Fulfill Your Destiny: Character Drives Destiny. We teach people that we are all defined by our character, which compels us to pick up the pieces and carry on when confronted with tremendous obstacles. WOW!!!! Happy and honored to support this charity!” – Jodi Avery
“Thank you, Karen Mertes, for a delightful afternoon! I am proud to support such a worthy organization.” – Lynn Valaes
“Hats off to Chari-Tea! The most delightful way to spend an afternoon with Karen Mertes and Fulfill Your Destiny! Congratulations to Clemmie Perry for winning the Fulfill Your Destiny grant! Quite the week! Here with so many friends enjoying a high tea and supporting women! And we would all agree that Kathleen Pravlik has the most amazing hat! Thank you Pegge Barrier for inviting me to your table and the incomparable Carolyn Ann Eastman!” – Patty Soltis
“So honored to be awarded the Fulfill Your Destiny Business Builder Grant! I went to my dear friends event thinking I was just going to enjoy some tea and learn about her organization. Little did I know that I was going to be one of the grant recipients! What a complete surprise and amazing afternoon! Thank you Karen Mertes!” – Tina Brunsman
“Today I had an amazing afternoon with ladies all across Tampa Bay at @FulfillYourDestiny. Thank you Karen Mertes for putting together such a great event “– Allie Serrano
“What a fun way to spend Saturday! Congratulations on another Chari-Tea Karen Mertes.” – Karen Gillman
“Glad I could make a donation for your amazing event! ” — Dee Blucher
“Congrats Karen Mertes for pulling off another amazing Chari-Tea.” – Lisa Ford
“I had such an amazing time at Fulfill Your Destiny’s 5th Annual Spring Chari-Tea! Chroma Studio was lucky enough to be an “Iced Tea” Sponsor this year and I had such a great time hanging out with my girls from #charitychics. Each year I am so thrilled to see this incredible organization touch so many lives in such a positive way – uplifting local entrepreneurial women! I was also very honored to be presented with an award for the “Most Creative Hat”! Y’all know I had to make the details out of metal!” — Kate Gausche
“Pilot Bank enjoyed supporting Spring Chari-Tea presented by Fulfill Your Destiny”. – Sulain Arce
To read the article from the Tampa Bay Times, please click here:
THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING TO OUR FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2018 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY WILLIAMS CONSULTING GROUP
FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2018 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY WILLIAMS CONSULTING GROUP
Fulfill Your Destiny is announcing our 2018 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea, our signature event on Mar 24, 2018 returning again to the beautiful Empress Tea Room located at 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, FL, a locally owned and operated elegant Tea Room and Event Dining venue. Our 2018 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea will be 2:30 – 5:00 PM on Saturday, Mar 24, 2018. 
We’re delighted to share that our 5th Annual signature event, Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2018 Spring Chari-Tea is presented by Williams Consulting Group as our Title Teapot Sponsor.
100 career women interested in supporting our greater Tampa Bay community through philanthropy will attend for a celebration of women for charity with tea. It’s not just tea; its Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea! Please RSVP early as we sell out each year!
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 35 SPONSORS!
SHOWCASING OUR 4 TEACUP SPONSORS
Please bring several business cards with you as some of our Sponsors will be having a Raffle.
SHARING OUR 7 OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
HIGHLIGHTING OUR 9 HERBAL TEA SPONSORS
INTRODUCING OUR 14 ICED TEA SPONSORS
(listed alphabetically):
Allie Serrano Portraits; Chroma Studio – Metal Art & Design; Deborah Barnes, Baird Private Wealth Management – Tampa; Entrepreneurship Resources, Inc.; Frazier & Deeter; Merchant Insurance Solutions; Palmer Home and Business Inventory Professionals; Robert H. Delafield, Inc.; Seven, LLC; Sweet Soap Confections; Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Thomas G CPA, LLC (Certified Public Accountant for the Small to Medium Size Business); Willow Healing; and Working Women of Tampa Bay.
Each year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea is a very nice way to celebrate Women’s History Month. March is also National Brain Injury Awareness Month and it’s when we celebrate the arrival of Spring.
We’ll have over $30,000 in Live Auctions, Silent Auctions, Surprise Totes, Raffles, and a few other nice surprises.
We’ll have several Silent Auction items available for bidding.
We’ll have a separate Jewelry Raffle for a .17 total weight Round Brilliant Dancing Diamond Heart Pendant set in 14K White gold with an 18″ Carded Cable Rope Chain in 14K White Gold with Total Value of $674.00 donated by Hands Across the Bay. Raffle tickets for this stunning jewelry will be 1 for $20, 3 for $50, and 7 for a $100 donation.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with 20 prizes valued at over $1,500. Tickets for the ‘your choice’ Raffle will be available with 10 tickets for a $20 donation.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a 50-50 Raffle with 5 tickets available for a $20 donation.
Elegant Hats designed locally by Gidget Fisher will be available for a $20 donation.
While guests enjoy a fabulous High Tea which includes 3-tiered plates with scrumptious tea sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts, everyone will have opportunities to visit the Silent Auction tables, participate in our Jewelry Raffle, participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with over $1,500 in prizes, participate in the 50-50 Raffle, and select their favorite Elegant Hats by Gidget Fisher.
Guests will enjoy each other’s company as well as meet new friends and mingle while selecting one-of-a-kind teapot centerpieces with fresh floral arrangements available to take home by suggested donation.
Back by Request! Guests will have the opportunity to select Surprise Totes filled with unique items each valued at least double the requested donation for these totes. Surprise Totes will be available for donations in the amounts of $50 (at least $100 value), $75 (at least $150 value), and $100 (at least $200 value). Each Surprise Tote will be one-of-a-kind and very special!
NEW THIS YEAR! We’ll be having Table Stakes Chari-Tea Style, where guests will have just minutes to try and win some beautiful prizes that are being donated by On Point Executive Center.
We’ll hold three optional Hat Contests: Prettiest, Most Creative, and Vintage. Prizes will be awarded to the three winners. Pilot Bank, returns as our Hat Contest Sponsor, graciously donating three (3) $250 Certificate of Deposits (CDs) and Gift Baskets, one (1) CD and Gift Basket to each of our three Hat Contest Winners!
Ladies interested in supporting our community through philanthropy will attend for Great Food, Auctions, 50-50 Raffle, Surprises, Hat Contests, Prizes, ‘Your Choice’ Raffles, Free Gifts and Fun! All attendees will receive a FREE gift for attending Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2018 Spring Chari-Tea.
Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have again partnered for a special presentation where we’ll be giving the keys to a ‘new to her’ vehicle to a local woman at Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2018 Spring Chari-Tea. Please have your cameras and tissues ready!
AUCTIONS & RAFFLE PRIZES
We’ll culminate the afternoon with our Live Auction. This year we’ve received the following 11 donations for our Live Auction:
1) PerfecTiming Concierge 2 Hour Gift Certificate and Gift Basket. Do you want more time? PerfecTiming Concierge had donated “The Gift of Time…Let Us Simplify Your Life” by providing 2 Hours of Complimentary Errand Services & Consultation paired with a lovely Gift Basket. The minimum starting bid will be $100.*
2) Wise Women Fitness and Nutrology Nutrition Services. Wise Women Fitness has donated 3 x 45-minute Private Personal Training Sessions and a Gift Basket with a Jump Rope, Hand Weights, Dumbbells, and Fabric Exercise Tubing. This live auction item is paired with a Complimentary Nutrition Consultation donated by Nutrology Nutrition Services. The minimum starting bid will be $100.*
3) Ybor City Wine Bar donated a Wine Flight for Ten. This wonderful live auction item includes a wine party for you and nine of your closest friends. Relax and enjoy your own private wine tasting led by a certified Sommelier. Your wine flight will begin with a glass of sparkling bubbles, followed by two white wines and then two red wines. There will be five wines in all. The wines will be handpicked selections from all over the world. This private, exclusive wine tasting should take about an hour and a half to enjoy so take your time. Ybor City Wine Bar is located in the heart of Ybor and you will have your choice of inside seating or outside on the veranda to watch the sites of the city. The minimum starting bid will be $100.*
4) Besito West Shore donated ‘A Taste of Mexico with 3 of your closet Maestros!’“Your Besito experience includes our “Chefs” personal selection of appetizers, entrees, dessert and a few take home surprises. From the Bar, enjoy a tequila flight tasting and a selection of our signature Margaritas.” This Bestio Mexican Dining Experience has a value of $350 and the minimum starting bid will be $100. *
5) Eyes on You donated a Package of Gift Certificates for 3 x Packages of Shampoo, Blow Dry & Style, an additional VIP Hair and Makeup, Full Set of Eyelash Extensions, and 1x Spray Tan with total value of $495. Services may be redeemed on different days. The minimum starting bid will be $100.*
6) Chick-Fil-A Basket donated by Paul & Tammy Holmberg. This fun live auction item includes 13 x Combo Meals, 13 x Kids Meals, a 20” Plush Cow, and a Chick-Fil-A Signature Cow Calendar. The minimum starting bid will be $100.*
7) Tampa Bay Lightning Steven Stamkos Autographed Hockey Stick. The minimum starting bid is $150.
8) Exclusive Family Portrait plus Luxury 5 Diamond Hotel Stay in New York or Palm Beach. Be photographed by World Renowned Bradford in either his New York or Palm Beach location. Package includes a 20” wall portrait on canvas with lavish artistry plus a one night stay at either the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Westchester or the 5 Diamond, 5 Star Eau Resort in Palm Beach (formerly the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach). Certificate valid through 9/24/2018. This package has a value of $5,500 and the minimum starting bid will be $300.*
9) Time for Me – Karen’s Ultimate Pampering and Relaxation Collection includes 3 x 1-Hour Custom Massages from Willow Healing; 1 x Blow Dry & Facial from Belmora Salon & Spa; 1 – Hour Reflexology from Sam Belyea, the Foot Whisperer; Lancôme’s Parisian Case with 11 Full-Size Products; a Lavender Scented Cozy Comfort Spa Blanket, Aveda Botanical Kinetics Energizing Eye Cream & Relaxing Eye Pillow & Comforting Tea Bags; and Cozy Slipper Socks. This collection is valued at $1,000 and the minimum starting bid will be $250.*
10) Vacation Village in the Berkshires donated by Michael Harvey and Karen Mertes. Commanding a stunning view of the Jiminy Peak Ski Area, Vacation Village is a true four-season resort, offering something for everyone. Whether you enjoy snow skiing, hiking, biking, running, swimming or simply taking a drive through New England’s legendary fall foliage, the Berkshires offers scenic hills, trails, lakes and rivers that beckon anyone who loves the outdoors. The Berkshires offer a feast of shopping, culinary and cultural opportunities which can be found in charming cottages, restored mills and antiquated farmhouses which dot this incredible countryside. The Berkshires offer a rich history, including a Shaker Village, the Norman Rockwell Museum, Arrowhead, home of Herman Melville and much more. The Berkshires has been a center for the fine arts since the turn of the century. Hear the Boston Symphony at their summer home, Tanglewood, or attend a performance at the Williamstown Theatre.
This offer includes a one week’s stay in a one bedroom unit which sleeps four. You choose the time and season. Resort amenities include an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, internet room and much more. Airfare is not included.
Easy access through a number of airport hubs including: Albany, NY (44 mi); Hartford, CT (96 mi); Boston, MA (154 mi); and New York, NY (178 mi).
The minimum starting bid will be $500.*
11) Anchorage Resort and Yacht Club in Key Largo, FL donated by Michael Harvey and Karen Mertes. Looking over the Florida Bay from each unit’s screened balcony at Anchorage Resort & Yacht Club, it’s easy to let troubles melt away. Guests will want to take part in the abundant water sports activities. Right outside the door is boating, fishing, and tennis. Between outdoor activities or local water sports, relax on the resort’s sun deck and take a few dips in the pool. Then back to more fun above and under the beautiful azure waters of Key Largo.
This offer is for a one week’s stay, July 29 – August 5, 2018 in a one bedroom suite with a full kitchen except an oven. You’ll have your own private screened balcony and this suite sleeps four. Amenities include free WiFi, pool, hot tub, gas grills, tennis court and shuffleboard.
The Anchorage Resort and Yacht Club also offers concierge services and an all-around relaxing atmosphere with some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see!
This exact week on Hotels.com has a price of $1,603.16.
The minimum starting bid will be $500.*
*Please contact Karen in advance for ‘Buy It Now’ donations and options on any of our Live Auction items.
AUCTION AND RAFFLE PRIZE DONORS
Thank you to our Auction and Raffle Prize Donors (list alphabetically): AAD Aesthetics; Ana Wholley, Chole + Isabel; Aveda Level Salon Spa; B & D Wholesalers; Bella’s Italian Café; Belmora Saloon & Spa; BeneFab Sore No More; Besito Mexican West Shore; Big Cat Rescue; Bradford Portraits; Burger 21; By the Moon; Bybabette Creations; Cabot Creamery Cooperative; Cascade Financial Management, Inc.; Charlene McKee, Neal’s Yard Remedies, Organic; Chef Inspired Popcorn Company; Chick-Fil-A – Paul & Tammy Holmberg; Coton Colors by Laura Johnson; Creation Solace Solutions, LLC; Cres of Florida, Inc.; D – K Planners & Designs; Dancing Glass Beadworks; Denice Nanette, Chloe + Isabel; Drew Brass Photography; DSW; Dunkin’ Donuts; Earring Holder Gallery; Earth Spirit Art and Glass; Edith Hicks, Premiere Designs; Elizabeth Scovil; Escape Countdown; Essence of Laurel; Eyes on You Salon & Spa; Great Explorations Children’s Museum; Hilton Carillon Park Hotel; Hyde Park Kendra Scott; Imagine That!; Invent Your Image; Jayne Spanton, Let’s Be Creative; jeanique; Jewelry Designs by Carol Anne; Joe and Son’s Olive Oils; John Mroczek; Journey into Color Photography by Kathy Lerche; Kara Lynn’s Kitchen; Karen Mertes; Kathy Sparks Art; Katie Coffin, Illumine Art Enterprises; Kilroy Krafts; Lady Fish Designs; Magnolia and Vine – Carole Stanton; Michael Harvey; Nancy Piatek; Nothing bundt Cakes; Nutrology Nutrition Services; On Point Executive Center; Out of Hand!; Painting with a Twist; Pane Rustica; Patty Adams; Penny Wallace, Willing Beauty; PerfecTiming Concierge; Pilot Bank; Pro Performance Golf; Sea Beans with Style; Sew Be It; SoHo Wellness; South End Girl Art by Tiffanie Seiler; South Tampa Chamber of Commerce; Starlite Cruises; Steve Vaughn Tropics Gallery; Stocking Stuffer Station Crafts by Gloria; Stretch Pros – Rance McEachern; Sweet Soap Confections; Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Tampa Bay Lightning; Tasty Venues; TeBella Tea Company; The Centre for Women, The Dali Museum; The Dessert Spot; The Florida Orchestra; The Foot Whisperer Reflexology Institute; The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa; Toffee to Go; Tampa Bay Lightning; Two Twisted Sisters Designs; Vanessa Wooding, GOT Jewelry; Village Health Market; Willow Healing; Wise Women Fitness; and Ybor City Wine Bar.
Please contact Karen directly at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by calling her at (813) 533-1963 for sponsorship and reservations or for more information.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2017 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY AMERICAN MOMENTUM BANK
Rachel is winning! Her eyes have this special sparkle again and when she recently gave her 30-second commercial about Perfect Timing Concierge, she once again spoke proudly about her business and is read for more.
Rachel wrote, “I am overwhelmed with joy, still in shock, amazingly blessed and enormously grateful for Karen Mertes. Today at Fulfill Your Destiny‘s 2017 Spring Chari-Tea, I was one of two recipients to receive the Business Builder Grant in the amount of $1000, Ashley Grant was awarded a grant as well.
Thank you Karen and Teri Morrow from the bottom of my heart for your generous heart and gift of love. Being in the midst of beautiful, powerful, strong and supportive women today was an illustration of community and sisterhood.
This has been an incredible day for me! Stay tuned to see how your investment in me helps others. With gratitude!” ~ Rachel Revill, Perfect Timing Concierge
A second highlight was presenting another Fulfill Your Destiny’s Business Builder Grant to Ashley Grant of The Famous Ashley Grant. Ashley was also awarded a $1,000 Business Builder Grant. Ashley is a gifted writer and blogger and like Rachel, was really coming into her own as an entrepreneur when her life challenge hit with a family tragedy.
Ashley wrote, “I’m still in shock and humbled, and honored, and shocked, and grateful, and shocked, and amazed, and shocked, and excited about the fact that I was one of the two recipients of Fulfill Your Destiny‘s Business Builder Grants in the amount of $1,000 at today’s Spring Chari-Tea. Rachel Revill was the other winner. Neither one of us had ANY idea that we were going to be given these grants today.
I am going to use my grant to get incorporated and launch my Bloggy Friends show I’ve been dreaming about. Thank you Karen Mertes for all that you do. I hope to make you proud with this amazing gift. Big, ginormous, ridiculous hugs girl.
Big thank you to Jeannie Holliday and Jodi Perez for your contribution to this amazing grant as well. I hope to make you ladies proud too. Big hugs fellow chics!
I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me and Rachel, and I look forward to paying it forward one day!!!!” ~ Ashley Grant, The Famous Ashley Grant
Another highlight from our 2017 Spring Chari-Tea was presenting Lyda H with a ‘new to her’ Toyota Corolla. Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success partnered to make this happen when Fulfill Your Destiny donated $3,000 to Wheels of Success for their ‘Build a Car’ program. For the third year in a row, Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have partnered to present a local woman with a car at Fulfill Your Destiny’s annual Spring Chari-Tea.
Susan Jacobs shared, “Fulfill Your Destiny‘ s 2017 Spring Chari-Tea presented by American Momentum Bank was sold out again for the 4th year in a row and everyone had lots of fun. For the 3rd year in a row this event featured a Wheels of Success Build-A-Car presentation to a deserving young woman, Lyda, and Teri who received her vehicle last year was there as well to let everyone know how the car has changed her life. Thank you Karen Mertes, Founder and CEO for starting this wonderful organization and for all you do for the community. We are proud to partner with you.” ~ Susan Jacobs, Wheels of Success
Thank you to our 2017 Teapot Title Sponsor, American Momentum Bank and our other 40 very generous sponsors as well as all the beautiful ladies that attended our signature annual event. Together we positively impacted two entrepreneurs as well as a single mother’s life!
Another highlight from our Spring Chari-Tea this year was helping ladies in transition with Answered Prayers Project. Fulfill Your Destiny commissioned Answered Prayers Project to make custom Teapot ornaments through a donation Fulfill Your Destiny made to Answered Prayers Project. All guests that attended Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2017 Spring Chari-Tea presented by American Momentum Bank received one of these custom made ornaments as a gift for attending this year’s Chari-Tea.
Fulfill Your Destiny recognizes people and companies who have helped further our mission of helping others by presenting them with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award – ‘Hands Eagerly Reach Out’ to help others when and where needed. This year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award was presented to Carolynn Smith of Seven Marketing & PR.
Carolynn Smith of Seven Marketing & PR was presented with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award for repeatedly making connections and showcasing Fulfill Your Destiny in unique ways that have helped us further our mission of helping others.
SAVE THE DATE: MARCH 24, 2018
Who will be honored next year at our Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2018 Spring Chari-Tea on Mar 24, 2018 at The Empress Tea Room 2:30 – 5:00 PM? It’s never too early to sponsor and make your reservations to attend our 5th Annual signature event. We’ve sold out each year! Please contact Karen Mertes at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by phone at (813) 533-1963 for more info.
HERE’S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR 2017 SPRING CHARI-TEA
“How adorable are these center pieces?!?!? The Chari-Tea is awesome and it’s so fitting that these flower center pieces are made with teapots!!!! Well done Fulfill Your Destiny!!!!!” ~ Ashley Grant, The Famous Ashley Grant
“Love when I can represent Sylvia Thomas Center at these events where others give back to communities!” – Pearl Knapp Chiarenza
“Thank you Answered Prayers Project for our fabulous ornaments from the Fulfill Your Destiny Chari-Tea event! I love mine!!” ~ Billie Jo Grassinger Bell, LocalShops1
“Thank you to Karen Mertes, Fulfill Your Destiny and Susan Jacobs, Wheels of Success, Lyda is now the proud recipient of a ‘new to her’ vehicle as well as her family. In addition, Fulfill Your Destiny’s annual Chari-Tea has honored many businesses and business women all while raising additional dollars to help many more.” ~ Diane Jamai
“A great event today for Fulfill Your Destiny‘s Annual Chari-Tea. There were so many wonderful women there to support Karen Mertes and her outstanding work helping women within our community. 2 entrepreneurs received Business Builder Grants today along with a presentation of a car for another woman. Lots of good all around. Special thanks to Starr Elaine and Shining Star Insurance Services for inviting me today. It was so nice to see so many friends and it was a lot of fun.” ~ Debra Palmer, Palmer Home & Business Inventory Professionals
“”Hats Off” to Karen Mertes for a fun-filled #FulFillYourDestiny Chari-Tea. Women dressing up to support other women. Congrats to Rachel Revill and Ashley Grant for being awarded a Business Building Grant in the amount of $1,000 each. And congrats to Lyda for getting a “new to her” Toyota. Great company with good conversations, prizes (damn I want to borrow your jewelry Kristi Haynes Campbell) and delicious scones, sandwiches and of course Tea. Fulfill Your Destiny glad that The Centre for Women was able to sponsor and my coworker Susan and I got to go.” ~ Kathleen Pravlik, The Centre for Women
“Lovely Saturday afternoon tea at Fulfill Your Destiny’s Annual 2017 Spring Chari-Tea! Karen Mertes truly has a heart to serve women within the community and her passion is simply inspiring! So wonderful to see so many friends who give back to help others. Congratulations to Rachel Revill and Ashley Grant for being awarded a Business Builder Grant and Lyda Haag for getting her “new” car!” ~ Jodi Avery, Real Estate Broker Associate
“I am so happy for Rachel and for Ashley. I feel privileged to have been in the audience.” ~ Debra Palmer, Palmer Home & Business Inventory Professionals
“Another successful Chari-Tea! It was awesome. My guests really enjoyed themselves.” ~ Dell Rabinowitz, Urban E Recycling
“Hi Diane, I wanted to thank you again for inviting me to such a wonderful event on Saturday. I had a great time and enjoyed learning more about the organization. I hope to attend next year as well. Take care, Rachael” ~ Rachael L. Greenstein
“The Centre for Women was proud to be a sponsor of Fulfill Your Destiny Spring Chari-Tea on Saturday. Susan McIntyre, Director of Counseling & Wellness and Kathleen Pravlik, Director of Advancement attended the fun-filled event. A chance to dress up, wear hats, drink tea and support an organization that has supported us in the past. Karen Mertes did a fantastic job on her event. Women helping women at The Empress Tea Room & Bistro with Divine Menus Catering” ~ Kathleen Pravlik, The Centre for Women
“Hello Karen, Just a quick note to thank you for a wonderful time on Saturday. It was full of nice surprises. Well done!” ~ Teri L. Morrow, PHR, RHU, REBC, CEBS, Principal, My Benefit Partners, LLC
“Great event Karen Mertes! So many good things happened there and it was a lot of fun.” ~ Debra Palmer, Palmer Home & Business Inventory Professionals
“Wow!! What a great Tampa Bay Times article. I’m so proud of you Karen and so grateful for what you do for these women. My goal is to keep bettering myself so I can contribute more and more each year. On behalf of these women, I know what life feels like on their side. Having a woman like you do these kind acts can lift a woman’s soul. Thank you.” ~ Blessings, Nancy
“P.S. Sending the picture to my mom — she’ll love it.” ~ Nancy Lucas
“Thank you for all you do. I’ve heard so many good things about your Chari-Tea from ladies that had never been before (meaning, this year is their first year).” ~ Dell Rabinowitz, Urban E Recycling
“I want to say how much I enjoyed the Chari-Tea and meeting so many wonderful women. You did a remarkable job of not only heading the event, but also being the emcee. You certainly are a woman who knows how to wear many “hats”; all at the same time.” ~ Vickie Vail
THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING TO OUR
FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2017 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY AMERICAN MOMENTUM BANK
DID YOU KNOW?
- American Momentum Bank is committed to providing financial momentum to those in the communities it serves.
- As one of this country’s strongest and most secure banks, American Momentum Bank offers innovative financial solutions, products and services for businesses and individuals.
- American Momentum Bank has 15 full-service banking centers in Florida, including Tampa, Orlando, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Naples and Winter Garden.
- With total assets over $1.1 billion, American Momentum Bank’s strong capitalization, superior asset quality and experienced management teams position it as one of the premier banks in the state.
Fulfill Your Destiny is announcing our 2017 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea, our signature event on Mar 25, 2017 returning again to the beautiful Empress Tea Room located at 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, FL, a locally owned and operated elegant Tea Room and Event Dining venue. Our 2017 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea will be 2:30 – 5:00 PM on Saturday, Mar 25, 2017.
100 career women interested in supporting our greater Tampa Bay community through philanthropy will attend for a celebration of women for charity with tea. It’s not just tea; its Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea! Please RSVP early as we sell out each year!
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 41 SPONSORS!
SHOWCASING OUR 5 TEACUP SPONSORS
Please bring several business cards with you as some of our Sponsors will be having a Raffle.
SHARING OUR 5 OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
HIGHLIGHTING OUR 11 HERBAL TEA SPONSORS
INTRODUCING OUR 19 ICED TEA SPONSORS (LISTED ALPHABETICALLY)
A.L. Saland Insurance Solutions, Inc.; Academic Alliance in Dermatology; Anita Roederer, Realtor, Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services; Biz Dynamics Group; Blo Tampa; Charity Chics North Tampa/Pasco, LLC; Cooperative Real Estate; Kohlerhaus; Marie Rosenbaum, Travel Consultant; Merchant Insurance Solutions; Robert H. Delafield, Inc.; Seven, LLC; TD Bank; South University ; Tampa Bay Buccaneers, The Centre for Women; The Women’s Council of Realtors – Tampa Network; Willow Healing; and Working Women of Tampa Bay.
AUCTION AND RAFFLE PRIZE DONORS
Thank you to our Auction and Raffle Prize Donors (list alphabetically): AAD Aesthetics; Ackermann Maple Farm; Ana Wholley, Chole + Isabel; Art Passions; Arthur Murray Tampa; Aveda Level Salon Spa; B & D Wholesalers; Barbara Lodato; Bella’s Italian Cafe; Besito’s Mexican; Blo Tampa; Bonefish Grill; Bradford Portraits; By the Moon; Cabot Creamery Cooperative; Cat’s Creations; CompassPointz; D – K Planners & Designs; Dan Johnson Designs; Denice Nanette, Chloe + Isabel; Designer Magnetic Jewelry; Design My Course; DSW; Earring Holder Galley; Edith Hicks, Premiere Designs; Eyes on You Salon & Spa; Flourish; Hyde Park Kendra Scott; jeanique,;Jen Miller, Plunder Design Jewelry; Jewelry Designs by Carol Anne; John Mroczek; Journey into Color Photography by Kathy Lerche; Just For You; Karen Embry Designs; Karen Mertes; KateKreates; Kathy Sparks Art; Kilroy Krafts; L.A. Parker Designs; Lady Fish Designs; Lancome at Macy’s – West Shore Plaza Mall; Lori Hlavsa; M & D Fine Jewelry; Margarita Sarmiento; Michelle Linden, Cutco Independent Specialist; Nancy DeMeyer; Nautilus Soap Company; Ocean of Gold, Inc.; Out of Hand!; Pami Pocket; Pane Rustica; Paradise Potter; Pillows ‘N’ Stuff; Pilot Bank; Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel; Sarafina’s; Sea Beans with Style; Seven, LLC; Sew Be It; Shannon Abitbol, Earth Essentials; SoHo Wellness; South Tampa Chamber of Commerce; Square 1 Burger & Bar; Steve Vaughn Tropics Gallery; Sweet Shop Confections; Tampa Bay Lightning; The Busted Hourglass; The Florida Orchestra; The Foot Whisperer Reflexology Institute; The Messy Painter; The Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium; The Write Place; Thistle Delights; Two Twisted Sisters Designs; Urban Phoenix Studios; Willow Healing; Woodsmith of Naples; and Ybor City Wine Bar.
Each year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea is a very nice way to celebrate Women’s History Month. March is also National Brain Injury Awareness Month and it’s when we celebrate the arrival of Spring.
We’ll have over $25,000 in Live Auctions, Silent Auctions, Surprise Totes, Raffles, and a few other nice surprises.
We’ll have several Silent Auction items available for bidding.
We’ll have a separate Jewelry Raffle for a 2.30 carat Oval Topaz and .10 total weight Round Brilliant Diamond Prong Necklace set in 14K Yellow Gold with Total Value of $749.00 donated by Hands Across the Bay. Raffle tickets for this stunning jewelry will be 1 for $20, 3 for $50, and 7 for a $100 donation.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with 20 prizes valued at over $1,500. Tickets for the ‘your choice’ Raffle will be available with 10 tickets for a $20 donation.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a 50-50 Raffle with 5 tickets available for a $20 donation.
Elegant Hats designed locally by Gidget Fisher will be available for a $20 donation.
While guests enjoy a fabulous High Tea which includes 3-tiered plates with scrumptious tea sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts, everyone will have opportunities to visit the Silent Auction tables, participate in our Jewelry Raffle, participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with over $1,500 in prizes, participate in the 50-50 Raffle, and select their favorite Elegant Hats by Gidget Fisher.
Guests will enjoy each other’s company as well as meet new friends and mingle while selecting one-of-a-kind teapot centerpieces with fresh floral arrangements available to take home by suggested donation.
NEW THIS YEAR! Guests will have the opportunity to select Surprise Totes filled with unique items valued at at least double the requested donation for these totes. Surprise Totes will be available for donations in the amounts of $50 (at least $100 value), $75 (at least $150 value), and $100 (at least $200 value). Each Surprise Tote will be one-of-a-kind and very special!
We’ll hold three optional Hat Contests: Prettiest, Most Creative, and Vintage. Prizes will be awarded to the three winners. NEW THIS YEAR! Pilot Bank, as our Hat Contest Sponsor, has graciously agreed to donate three (3) $250 Certificate of Deposits (CDs), one (1) CD to each of our three Hat Contest Winners!
Ladies interested in supporting our community through philanthropy will attend for Great Food, Auctions, 50-50 Raffle, Surprises, Hat Contests, Prizes, ‘Your Choice’ Raffles, Free Gifts and Fun! All attendees will receive a FREE gift! This year, Answered Prayers Project is custom making teapot ornaments for each guest. The Vision of Answered Prayers Project is to rebuild local communities, one woman at a time. All guests will receive a special custom made teapot ornament for attending Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2017 Spring Chari-Tea.
Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have again partnered for a special presentation where we’ll be giving the keys to a ‘new to her’ vehicle to a woman at Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2017 Spring Chari-Tea. Please have your cameras and tissues ready!
LIVE AUCTION
We’ll culminate the afternoon with our Live Auction. This year we’ve received the following 8 donations for our Live Auction:
1) Ybor City Wine Bar donated a Wine Flight for Ten. This wonderful silent auction item includes a wine party for you and nine of your closest friends. Relax and enjoy your own private wine tasting led by a certified Sommelier. Your wine flight will begin with a glass of sparkling bubbles, followed by two white wines and then two red wines. There will be five wines in all. The wines will be handpicked selections from all over the world. This private, exclusive wine tasting should take about an hour and a half to enjoy so take your time. Ybor city wine bar is located in the heart of Ybor and you will have your choice of inside seating or outside on the veranda to watch the sites of the city. The minimum starting bid will be $100. *
2) Besito West Shore donated ‘A Taste of Mexico with 3 of your closet Maestros!’“Your Besito experience includes our “Chefs” personal selection of appetizers, entrees, dessert and a few take home surprises. From the Bar, enjoy a tequila flight tasting and a selection of our signature Margaritas.” This Bestio Mexican Dining Experience has a value of $350 and the minimum starting bid will be $100. *
3) Magazine Style Photo Shoot plus $100 Credit from Flourish. The Ultimate Girls Day Out! Celebrate you and your relationships. Perfect for sisters, cousins, mothers and daughters, and friends. Your Photo Shoot includes a hair and makeup makeover for up to 2 people, help with wardrobe selection, wardrobe changes, posing guidance PLUS $100 towards portrait purchases. Look and feel like a supermodel! This package has a value of $395 and the minimum starting bid will be $100.*
4) Carolynn Smith, owner of Seven PR & Marketing has graciously donated a 3-hour PR and Marketing Consultation. For any ladies seeking a starting place or needing inspiration to take your current marketing or public relations platform to the next level to increase revenue and exposure; Carolynn Smith, owner of Seven PR & Marketing is offering a 3-hour consultation to help you accomplish your PR goals! Seven is a public relations, marketing and social media company. Seven’s professional abilities make your vision a reality. Seven’s clients have been featured on National Fox News, Huffington Post, Oprah Magazine, ESPN, Daytime, ABC, NBC, and more! This one-on-one consultation is valued at $500 and the minimum starting bid is $100.
5) Tampa Bay Lightning Ryan Callahan Autographed Hockey Stick. The minimum starting bid is $150.
6) This Heidi Daus Collection includes a Necklace, Bracelet and Ring. Elegance, Sophisticated and Confident defines the Heidi Daus woman. It’s a sisterhood of sorts that is sure to create a special bond when a fan spots a Heidi Daus in a crowd. This Heidi Daus jewelry collection embodies superior design, style and color. Since 1981, the masterpieces of Heidi Daus have set precedence for the jewelry industry and pioneered the concept of statement jewelry. Heidi’s love of fine art, nature, and home décor is reflected in her designs. Each piece encompasses unique artistry and features stunning color ways, geometric art deco influences and intricate attention to detail. Each carefully constructed Heidi Daus incorporates fine jewelry making techniques where the clearest of Swarovski crystals are used, Italian inspired chain and exquisite French wire. Each piece is lovingly hand set and finished in the Heidi Daus propriety luxurious bronze tone finish. “When a woman sparkles, the world sparkles with her.” This collection is valued at $1,500 and the minimum starting bid will be $250.*
7) Exclusive Family Portrait plus Luxury 5 Diamond Hotel Stay in New York or Palm Beach. Be photographed by World Renowned Bradford in either his New York or Palm Beach location. Package includes a 20” wall portrait on canvas with lavish artistry plus a one night stay at either the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Westchester or the 5 Diamond, 5 Star Eau Resort in Palm Beach (formerly the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach). Certificate valid through 11/4/2017. This package has a value of $5,500 and the minimum starting bid will be $300.*
8) Time for Me – Karen’s Ultimate Pampering and Relaxation Collection includesthree (3) 1-Hour Custom Massages from Willow Healing; a Deplaning Refresher Facial with Bea Erdman from Academic Alliance in Dermatology; 1 – Hour Reflexology from Sam Belyea, the Foot Whisperer; a $50 Gift Card to Blo Tampa; Lancôme’s Parisian Case with 11 Full-Size Products; a Lavender Scented Cozy Comfort Spa Blanket, 3 x Luxurious Sweet Soap Confections and Cozy Slipper Socks. This collection is valued at $950 and the minimum starting bid will be $250.*
*Please contact Karen in advance for ‘Buy It Now’ donations and options on any of our Live Auction items.
Please contact Karen directly at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by calling her at (813) 533-1963 for sponsorship and reservations or for more information.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2016 SPRING CHARI-TEA PRESENTED BY C1 BANK
One highlight from our 2016 Spring Chari-Tea was presenting Teri A with a ‘new to her’ Honda Accord. Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success partnered to make this happen when Fulfill Your Destiny donated $3,000 to Wheels of Success for their ‘Build a Car’ program. For the second year in a row, Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have partnered to present a local woman with a car at Fulfill Your Destiny’s annual Spring Chari-Tea.
Thank you to our 2016 Teapot Title Sponsor, C1 Bank and our other 37 very generous sponsors as well as the 100 beautiful ladies that attended our signature annual event. Together we positively impacted a single mother’s life!
A second highlight from our Spring Chari-Tea this year was helping the clients at PARC. Fulfill Your Destiny commissioned PARC to make custom Teapot and Teacup ornaments through a donation Fulfill Your Destiny made to PARC. All guests that attended Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2016 Spring Chari-Tea presented by C1 Bank received one of these custom made ornaments as a gift for attending this year’s Chari-Tea.
Fulfill Your Destiny recognizes people and organizations who have helped further our mission of helping others by presenting them with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. – ‘Hands Eagerly Reach Out’ to help others when and where needed awards. This year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Awards were presented to Kristi Campbell of Home Instead Senior Care and Tara Richter, Richter Publishing, LLC.
Kristie Campbell of Home Instead Senior Care was presented with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. Award for suggesting Karen Mertes, founder of Fulfill Your Destiny, seek sponsors for her speaking engagements. Kristie Campbell of Home Instead Senior Care then generously and repeatedly sponsored several of Karen’s presentations.
Tara Richer, Richter Publishing, LLC, as the publisher of Karen’s book, PLAINTIFF 101, helped make PLAINTIFF 101 a #1 Amazon Best Seller and a #1 Hot New Release. Since all the proceeds from PLAINTIFF 101 are donated directly to Fulfill Your Destiny, Tara and Richter Publishing have also helped further our mission of helping others.
Who will be honored next year at Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2017 Spring Chari-Tea on Mar 25, 2017 at The Empress Tea Room 2:30 – 5:00 PM? It’s never too early to sponsor and make your reservations to attend our signature event. We’ve sold out each year! Please contact Karen Mertes at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by phone at (813) 533-1963 for more info.
HERE’S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR 2016 SPRING CHARI-TEA
“Congrats to Working Women of Tampa Bay member Karen Mertes on a very successful event over the weekend. Lots of money raised and a good time had by all. Good work, Karen.” ~ Jessica Rivelli, Working Women of Tampa Bay
“Such an amazing event Karen Mertes of Fulfill Your Destiny packed the house!!!…She raises money to give it away!!!” ~ Kim Nauman, The Empress Tea Room & Bistro with Divine Menus Catering
“Wow!!! What an event…once again Karen…you amaze me!!!” ~ Kim Nauman, The Empress Tea Room & Bistro with Divine Menus Catering
“I’m so happy I attended today. Congratulations on a beautiful event. My mother and I had a wonderful time and she cried she was so happy to win the beautiful Gold & Diamond Source earrings to match her mother’s ring she’s had for years.” ~ Carolynn Smith, Seven LLC
“It’s perfect!” ~ Kate Gausche, Canvas Zoo
“The 2016 Spring Chari-Tea was an amazing event to be a part of! Independent Financial was glad to spend the afternoon with Karen Mertes of Fulfill Your Destiny and witness a well deserved woman receiving a vehicle.” ~ Jeanne Holliday, Independent Financial Services
“I so enjoyed the Chari-Tea! It was a wonderful function.” ~ Lauri Ravenna
“I just received an unexpected H.E.R.O. Award from Karen Mertes with Fulfill Your Destiny charity. Thank you so much for all you do! The Spring Chari-Tea was a great event and it’s exciting to see our donations to provide a car for a person in need.” ~ Tara Richter, Richter Publishing
“Great fun at the Chari-Tea. For the second year in a row, Fulfill Your Destiny gave away a car. It was given to a woman who needed a car to get ahead in her job. It is great to be able to help someone.” ~ Jeannie Holliday, Independent Financial Services
“We all had so much fun!” ~ Marilynn Westropp, Florida Hospital
“Thanks for the invite Karen – Great energy in that room!” ~ Helena Trangata, Bellisimo Publishing
“Love that event, and your hats!” ~ Leann Morsani Rowe
“Great event with incredible women!” ~ Rachel Revill, Perfect Timing Concierge
“Such a fabulous event! Already looking forward to next year!” ~ Krayl Funch, An Appealing Plan
FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S 2016 SPRING CHARI-TEA IS PRESENTED BY C1 BANK.
Fulfill Your Destiny is announcing our 2016 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea, our signature event on Mar 19, 2016 returning again to the beautiful Empress Tea Room located at 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, FL, a locally owned and operated elegant Tea Room and Event Dining venue. Our 2016 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea will be 2:30 – 5:00 PM on Saturday, Mar 19, 2016. Click to Download Info
100 career women interested in supporting our greater Tampa Bay community through philanthropy will attend for a celebration of women for charity with tea. It’s not just tea; its Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea! Please RSVP early as we sell out each year!
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 38 SPONSORS!
THANK YOU TO OUR 3 TEACUP SPONSORS
Please bring several business cards with you as some of our Sponsors will be having a Raffle.
THANK YOU TO OUR 5 OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR 9 HERBAL TEA SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR 20 ICED TEA SPONSORS (LISTED ALPHABETICALLY)
Aaron’s House; Advanced Nutrition Concepts, Inc.; AFLAC; After the Band; Charity Chics North Tampa/Pasco, LLC; CompassPointz; Hancock Holistic Clinic; Invent Your Image; KohlerHaus; Marie Rosenbaum, Travel Consultant with OceanView Travels, LLC; Merchant Insurance Solutions; Robert H. Delafield, Inc.; Salon Inga; Seven, LLC; Tampa Real Estate Pulse; The Centre for Women; Vicki Tucker – Trades of Hope; Willow Healing; Working Women of Tampa Bay and www.HireAWriterToday.com.
Our sponsors and guests represent at least 41 distinct professions and areas of expertise (listed alphabetically): Accounting; Acupuncture; Architecture; Attorney; Author; Banking; Blogging; Bookkeeping and Tax Services; Business Consulting; Business Inventory Specialist; Cruise and Travel; Custom Canvas Art & Framing; Education; Electronic Recycling; Entrepreneur; Financial Planning; Financial Services; Graphic Design & Printing; Hair Salon; Home Healthcare; Image Consulting; Insurance; IT; Jewelry; Lifestyle Expert & Party Planner; Marketing and PR; Massage Therapy; Military; Networking; Non-Profit; Nutrition Coaching and Consulting; Photography; Professional Speaker; Publishing; Real Estate; Residential Renovations; Salon & Spa; Virtual Office; Website Design; Weight Loss Consulting and Writer.
Thank you to our Auction and Raffle Prize Donors (listed alphabetically): 2 in 1 Kodi Bag; 4 Rivers Smokehouse; Alli Photography, Aveda Level Salon Spa; Bella’s Italian Cafe; Besito’s Mexican West Shore; Bonefish Grill; Brown Graphics; C1 Bank; Cason Photography; Casual Creations; CompassPointz; D’Amore Intimate Apparel; Dr. Nick’s White & Healthy; Earring Holder Gallery; Eyes on You Salon & Spa; Georgette’s Fashions; Hotel Indigo; Invent Your Image; jeanique; Just Because; Karen Mertes; Kathy Sparks Art; La Dee-Da Kids Spa; Lady Fish Designs; Lecada Medical Artistry; Lori Hlavsa,;Michael Murphy Gallery; Nancy Giles for Heavendropt; Naracamicie; Nericcio Leathers; Origami Owl – Helena Trangata; PK’s Pixies; Pure Natural Nail Lounge; Richter Publishing; Sea Beans with Style; Sew Be It; Spa Evangeline; Sport Fit Training LLC; Square 1 Burgers & Bar; The Foot Whisperer Reflexology Institute; The Rolling Pin; Vicki Tucker – Trades of Hope and Willow Healing.
Each year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea is a very nice way to celebrate Women’s History Month. March is also National Brain Injury Awareness Month and it’s when we celebrate the arrival of Spring.
We’ll have several Silent Auction items available for bidding.
We’ll have a Jewelry Raffle for a 9.00 carat total weight Oval Amethyst Stud Earrings set in 14K Yellow Gold with Total Value of $599.00 donated by Hands Across the Bay. Raffle tickets for this stunning jewelry will be 1 for $20, 3 for $50, and 7 for a $100 donation.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with 20 prizes valued at over $1,500. Tickets for the ‘your choice’ Raffle will be available with 10 tickets for a $20 donation.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a 50-50 Raffle with 5 tickets available for a $20 donation.
Elegant Hats designed locally by Gidget Fisher will be available for a $20 donation.
While guests enjoy a fabulous High Tea which includes 3-tiered plates with scrumptious tea sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts, everyone will have opportunities to visit the Silent Auction tables, participate in our Jewelry Raffle for a stunning pair of Oval Amethyst Stud Earrings, participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with over $1,500 in prizes, participate in the 50-50 Raffle, and select their favorite Elegant Hats by Gidget Fisher.
Guests will enjoy each other’s company as well as meet new friends and mingle while selecting one-of-a-kind teapot centerpieces with fresh floral arrangements available to take home by suggested donation just in time for Palm Sunday.
We’ll hold three optional Hat Contests: Prettiest, Most Creative (new this year), and Vintage. Prizes will be awarded to the three winners.
Ladies interested in supporting our community through philanthropy will attend for great food, auctions, 50-50 Raffle, Surprises, Hat Contests, Prizes, ‘Your Choice’ Raffles, Free Gifts and Fun! All attendees will receive a FREE gift! This year, PARC is custom making teapot and teacup ornaments for each guest. The PARC Mission is to provide opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities to exercise their independence and experience life to the fullest. All guests will receive a custom made ornament for attending Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2016 Spring Chari-Tea along with a few other nice gifts and surprises.
Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have again partnered for a special presentation where we’ll be giving the keys to a ‘new to her’ vehicle to a woman at Fulfill Your Destiny’s 2016 Spring Chari-Tea. Please have your cameras and tissues ready!
We’ll culminate the afternoon with our Live Auction. This year we’ve received the following five donations for our Live Auction:
1) Besito West Shore donated ‘A Taste of Mexico with 3 of your closet Maestros!’“Your Besito experience includes our “Chefs” personal selection of appetizers, entrees, dessert and a few take home surprises. From the Bar, enjoy a tequila flight tasting and a selection of our signature Margaritas.” This Bestio Mexican Dining Experience has a value of $350 and the minimum starting bid will be $100. *
2) Sport Fit Training LLC donated 10 Golf Fitness Sessions –or- Personal Training Sessions. Each session is 45 minutes. This package of 10 Golf Sessions has a value of $600 and the minimum starting bid will be $150.*
3) Michael Murphy Gallery donated a framed artwork. Showcased is a Michael Murphy Gallery framed abstract print by Puliam. The piece is framed in a matte black finished, modern molding with a cool grey and vibrant red double mat. The Conservation Clear glass selected protects the artwork from fading with 99% UV protection. Acid free products were used to create this archival framing. It’s perfect for your home or office. The piece is appraised at $300 and the minimum starting bid will be $100.*
4) Eyes on You donated a Package of Gift Certificates for a Full Set of Eyelash Extensions, VIP Hair and Makeup, and One Spray Tan with total value of $390. Services may be redeemed on different days. The minimum starting bid will be $100.*
5) The Pepito Portrait Experience: Best known for his burnished sepia collection, Pepito is an award winning Master Portrait Photographer who captures the connection of love in families to create priceless Heirloom Wall Portraits. Upon your arrival, Pepito and his staff will be there to welcome you. A classically trained Chef will greet you with a Gourmet Lunch. You’ll receive a Home Design Session valued at $1,000, with the remaining $500 to be used toward the purchase of a Heirloom Canvas Wall Portrait. Your Pepito Portrait Experience is valued at $1,500. The minimum starting bid for this Pepito Portrait Experience will be $500.*
*Please contact Karen in advance for ‘Buy It Now’ donations and options on any of our Live Auction items.
Please contact Karen directly at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by calling her at (813) 533-1963 for sponsorship and reservations or for more information.
PHOTOS FROM OUR 2015 SPRING CHARI-TEA!
A highlight from our 2015 Spring Chari-Tea was giving Foster Youth Emmalee the keys to her very own Audi Cabriolet convertible. Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success partnered to make this happen. Thank you to our 2015 Teapot Title Sponsor, Hands Across the Bay and our other 34 very generous sponsors as well as the nearly 100 beautiful ladies that attended our signature annual event. Together we changed a life.
HERE’S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR 2015 SPRING CHARI-TEA
“What a delightful event, Karen. You are so inspiring. It is an honor to support your work. I will mark my calendar for next year! Look forward to seeing you soon!” ~ Heather Delafield, Robert H. Delafield, Inc.
“Thank you for a wonderful event again this year, Karen! I truly enjoyed myself. Next year please send me informaton on being a Sponsor. I want to help your event in any way that I can!” ~ Jessica Fogarty, Princess House
“It was a fantastic event. LocalShops1.com is thrilled to be a part of it!”~ Billie Jo Grassinger Bell, LocalShops1
“Fabulous Event!”~ Diane Jamai, The Right Fit 4 You
“Wonderful Event!”~ Lisa K. Ford, Invent Your Image
“Had a wonderul time today for the Spring Chari-Tea to raise money for Fulfill Your Destiny with Karen Mertes at the Empress Tea Room and Bistro.”~ Kathleen Pravlik, The Centre for Women
“Had a great time at Fulfill Your Destiny’s Chari-Tea! Wonderful job, Karen Mertes” ~ Amanda Uliano, Law Office of Amanda Uliano, P.A.
“So proud of Karen’s many accomplishments. Amazing!” ~ Rita Lowman, C1 Bank
“What a nice time!” ~ Jerri Menaul, Canvas Zoo
“Dear Karen, I was truly amazed at how wonderful your organization is and really enjoyed watching you as hostess … you are a wonderful communicator! The tea, scones, etc … were delightfully delicious and I love all of the auction items, but especially the pearl necklace! Thank you!” ~ Ivory Blackwood, St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce
“My name is Mary Gerst and I was a guest of Franki McCracken’s at the tea on Saturday. I would like to say you did a beautiful job on the event. It was my first time at the Tea Room and it was a great experience! “~ Mary Gerst
“Saturday’s Chari-Tea event held by Fulfill Your Destiny was truly inspiring. We had the opportunity to present foster youth Emmalee with the keys to her red Audi Cabriolet convertible. Such a moving experience – many tissues were needed! Thank you Karen Mertes and Fulfill Your Destiny for funding the restoration to Emmalee’s vehicle!” ~ Susan Jacobs, Wheels of Success
“ Thank you for reaching out to me when you had the cancellation for your Chari-Tea. I had such a wonderful time. I will definitely attend next year’s event as it is on my birthday so I’m hoping to bring my mom, my daughter and daughter-in-law with me to celebrate.” ~ Terri Scarcelli, Balanced Accounting and Tax Services
Excitement is building for our 2015 Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea, our signature event on Mar 21, 2015 at the beautiful Empress Tea Room located at 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, FL, a locally owned and operated elegant Tea Room and Event Dining venue.
OUR 2015 FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S SPRING CHARI-TEA IS PRESENTED BY HANDS ACROSS THE BAY
100 career women interested in supporting our greater Tampa Bay community through philanthropy will attend for a celebration of women for charity with tea. It’s not just tea; it’s Fulfill Your Destiny’s Chari-Tea!
THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 4 OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
Please bring several business cards with you as some of our Oolong Tea Sponsors will be having a Raffle.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 14 HERBAL TEA SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 15 ICED TEA SPONSORS (LISTED ALPHABETICALLY)
Academic Alliance in Dermatology; American Momentum Bank; C1 Bank; Franki’s Creations; G. Elliot’s Brunchery Restaurant & Catering; Lab3 Marketing; Law Office of Amanda M. Uliano, P.A.; Michele & Group, Inc.; PACE Center for Girls; Robert H. Delafield, Inc.; Rodan+Fields Dermatology – Sheila Peck, RN, Esthetician; Security National Mortgage Company; The Bank of Tampa; The Right Fit 4 You; and Willow Healing.
Our sponsors and guests represent at least 30 distinct professions and areas of expertise (listed alphabetically): Accounting; Architecture; Author, Lifestyle Expert & Dinner Party Planner; Banking; Canvas Art & Framing; Commercial Cleaning; Consulting; Custom Crafts; Dermatology; Financial Services; Fitness; Graphic Artist & Printing; Home Healthcare; Image Consulting; Insurance; Law; Marketing; Massage Therapy; Media; Model & Talent; Mortgage; Networking; Non-Profit; Photography; Real Estate; Restaurant & Catering; Skin Care; Virtual Office; and Website Design.
Each year, Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea is a very nice way to celebrate Women’s History Month. March is also National Brain Injury Awareness Month and March 21st this year is the first day of Spring.
We’ll have several Silent Auction items available for bidding with total value of over $10,000.
We’ll have a Jewelry Raffle for an Elegant Pearl Necklace. Raffle tickets for the Elegant Pearl Necklace will be 1 for $20, 3 for $50, and 7 for a $100 donation.
Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with 20 prizes valued at over $1,500. Tickets for the ‘your choice’ Raffle will be available with 10 tickets for a $20 donation.
Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a 50-50 Raffle with 5 tickets available for a $20 donation.
Elegant Hats designed locally by Gidget Fisher will be available for a $20 donation.
While guests enjoy a fabulous High Tea which includes 3-tiered plates with scrumptious tea sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts, everyone will have opportunities to visit the Silent Auction tables, participate in our Jewelry Raffle for an Elegant Pearl Necklace, participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with over $1,500 in prizes, participate in the 50-50 Raffle, and select their favorite Elegant Hats by Gidget Fisher.
Guests will enjoy each other’s company as well as meet new friends and mingle while selecting one-of-a-kind teapot centerpieces with fresh floral arrangements available to take home by suggested donation.
We’ll hold three optional Hat Contests: Most Unusual, Prettiest, and Vintage. Prizes will be awarded to the three winners.
Fulfill Your Destiny and Wheels of Success have partnered for a special presentation.
We’ll culminate the afternoon with our Live Auction of a 1-Week Stay in Hilton Head, SC Aug 29 – Sept 5, 2015 in a deluxe 1-Bedroom Condo with Full Kitchen that sleeps 4 with nearby access to Golf, Tennis, Bicycle Riding, and Beaches available for nominal fees. Transportation is the responsibility of the winning bidder. The minimum starting bid for this 1-Week Stay in Hilton Head, SC is $350.
Please contact Karen directly at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by calling her at (813) 533-1963 for more information.
Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea, our signature event, held on Mar 29, 2014 at The Empress Tearoom was a sold out event! Thank you to our attendees! It could not have happened without you! Nearly 100 career women and one gentleman interested in our greater Tampa Bay community and philanthropy attended for a celebration of women for charity with tea.
Thank you to all of our 26 Sponsors for making our premiere event extra special!
Our Spring Chari-Tea 2014 Oolong Tea Sponsors (listed alphabetically) were: Bill and Cindy Moline, Charity Chics, Kara Vita, Local Shops1 and TekMethods.
Our Spring Chari-Tea 2014 Herbal Tea Sponsors (listed alphabetically) were: Dress for Success, Etica accounting, MamaRazzi foto, Shining Star Insurance Services and The Centre for Women.
Our Spring Chari-Tea 2014 Iced Tea Sponsors (listed alphabetically) were: Academic Alliance in Dermatology, Business Writing, Ink., Gold & Diamond Source, Ice Cold Air – Ashley Butler, Kingery & Crouse, P.A., Life Vantage Independent Distributor – Connie Smith, PACE Center for Girls, S.L. Ferguson Wealth Management Services, South Tampa Financial Group, Suzanne A. Dalton, The Bank of Tampa, WEDU – Joyce Cotton, WEDU – Nancy Curry, Willow Tree Healing Arts, Women With Purpose and Working Women of Tampa Bay.
Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea was a nice way to celebrate Women’s History Month. March is also National Brain Injury Awareness Month and March 29th is National Mom & Pop Business Owner’s Day.
Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea was held at the beautiful Empress Tearoom located at 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa, FL, a locally owned and operated elegant Tearoom and Event Dining venue.
It was gratifying to meet so many new people who have an interest in helping others and making a difference in people’s lives in our Greater Tampa Bay community.
Thank you to Hands Across the Bay for donating a stunning pair of Gold & Diamond Source Earrings for our Jewelry Raffle.
Thank you to our Silent Auction and Raffle Prize Donors (listed alphabetically): Academic Alliance in Dermatology, Attitudes by Angie, Bradford Portraits, Business Writing, Ink., Canvas Zoo, Doormet, fitlife foods, Fresh Threads, In the Beginning, Independent Financial Services, Inc. – Jeannie Holliday, International Plaza & Bay Street, Karen Mertes, Knitted Gems by Omeria Engel, LocalShops1, Mary Kay – Daryllynn Flournoy, Massage Redefined, MDesign Media, Patricia Rossi, People’s Pottery, PRP Wine International, Inc. – Carol Prokap, South Tampa Jazzercise, The Rolling Pin, Troy & Suzanne Mashburn and Wright’s Gourmet House.
Thank you to Dee Blucher, Sew Be It for providing her famous “Mini Gift Card” Bags. Each guest received one as our gift complete with goodies inside.
Thank you to Mari Caron for providing a card for a free chocolate or macaroon for each of us to redeem on our next visit to The Empress Tearoom.
While guests enjoyed a Champagne High Tea which included 3-tiered plates with scrumptious tea sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts, everyone had opportunities to visit the Silent Auction tables, participate in our Jewelry Raffle for Gold & Diamond Source Earrings donated by Hands Across the Bay, participate in the ‘your choice’ Raffle with over $1,750 in prizes, select their favorite Elegant Hats by Gidget Fisher and custom earrings by Angel Martin.
Guests had the opportunity to visit the Prints Charming Photo Booth for complimentary keepsake photos.
Guests enjoyed each other’s company as well as met new friends and mingled while selecting one-of-a-kind teapot centerpieces available to take home by suggested donation.
Fulfill Your Destiny recognizes people that have helped us further our mission of helping others. Karen Mertes presented Kim Nauman, The Empress Tea Room & Event Dining, with Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. – ‘Hands Eagerly Reach Out’ Award. The Empress Tea Room & Event Dining has been added to the list of Fulfill Your Destiny’s H.E.R.O. recipients on www.fulfillyourdestiny.org under the H.E.R.O. tab.
We held three Hat Contests: Most Unusual, Prettiest and Vintage. Karen Gillman of On Point Executive Center, Lisa Ford of Invent Your Image and Starr Tyrka of Shining Star Insurance Services served as our judges. Prizes were awarded to the three winners as well as to Bill Moline for his Fearless and Courageous Men’s Hat.
100% of all proceeds from Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea are being used to support Fulfill Your Destiny’s mission of assisting people whose career have been altered by injury or other unforeseen circumstances in our Greater Tampa Bay community. Special consideration is given to individuals who have sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Inspiring stories of people Fulfill Your Destiny has helped can be found at www.fulfillyourdestiny.org under the Who We’ve Helped tab.
Please save the date and make plans to attend our next Fulfill Your Destiny’s Spring Chari-Tea on Saturday, Mar 21, 2015 at The Empress Tearoom, 12924 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 (SW Corner of Fletcher & Dale Mabry – behind Chili’s) from 2:30-4:30.
It’s never too early to sponsor and reserve your seats for this very likely to be Sold Out event! Please contact Karen directly at karen.mertes@yahoo.com or karen@fulfillyourdestiny.org or by calling her at (813) 533-1963 for more information.
OOLONG TEA SPONSORS
HERE’S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT FULFILL YOUR DESTINY’S SPRING CHARI-TEA
“I’m very proud of all you have accomplished with Fulfill Your Destiny. You did an amazing job at your tea. Your first signature event went off without a hitch. You had every last detail meticulously planned out! Everyone was all a buzz about how fun it was too.
5 stars to an amazing event! We were thrilled that Charity Chics was able to sponsor your Chari-Tea and we look forward to doing the same again next year for your 2nd annual event.”
~ Lisa K. Ford, Certified Image Consultant, Color Analyst and Stylist, Invent Your Image and Co-Founder, Charity Chics
“Hi Karen, It was a pleasure to see you again on Saturday and my compliments, the Spring Chari-Tea was an exceptionally run event! As a fellow event planner, all your hard work and planning were clear and it was a wonderful afternoon. You’re awesome. What impressed me the most was how many ways you had to raise money at the event (raffle, tea pots for sale, hats, such interesting gifts). Marcetta and I look forward to following your organization. Hope to see you soon maybe at a Working Woman function.”
~ Kind Regards, Tara Morgan, Realtor, Coldwell Banker, Ann Rogers & Associates
“Karen, Just to let you know how much I as well as my friends enjoyed the event on Saturday. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet people that have an interest in making a difference in other people’s lives such as you. I am so pleased to have met you and can really appreciate that you “Are” making a difference. Thank you again for this wonderful event. It really is helping change the world to a better place.”
~ Warm Regards, Marcetta Dyer, Realtor and Broker Associate, Ann Rogers and Associates Team, Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate”
“Karen, I must tell you the event was the loveliest I have attended in quite some time. Not only because the venue was perfect it was the ambiance created by what you have built and how it was celebrated. Thanks for all you do Karen and congrats on a simply smashing tea party!!! I shouted loud and proud about its success on Facebook and absolutely wish to participate and attend next year.”
~ My warmest congratulations, Mary F. Dado, Business Writing, Ink.
“Fabulous event! Cannot wait until 2015!”
~ Billie Jo Grassinger Bell, LocalShops1”
