VintageNOW brings fun, fashion, fundraising this weekend to Cape

VintageNOW, an annual fundraising event for survivors of domestic violence and abuse, returns Saturday to the Show-Me Center in Cape Girardeau.

In contrast to previous iterations, this year's fashion will focus on elements rather than a specific time period, said Jeanne Muckerman, VintageNOW spokeswoman. The event will feature 60 models with two outfits each. The show will also feature dancing choreographed by members of the community.

"It really is, from beginning to end, nonstop entertainment, and we don't want you to be sad to miss it," Muckerman said.

The annual fashion show — and more — has a twofold purpose: bringing awareness to the issue of domestic violence and abuse and supporting Safe House of Southeast Missouri — formerly Safe House for Women. Safe House is a not-for-profit organization based in Cape Girardeau that has provided shelter and counseling, among other things, to domestic violence survivors since it was established in 1991.

Muckerman said Safe House was often referred to as the best kept secret in Cape Girardeau, "which is not what you want whenever you're serving people who need help."

VintageNOW has been important in helping get the word out about the organization and its outreach services, she said.

When the event was created 13 years ago, it raised around $3,000 for charity. Last year's show posted a record-setting show raised more than $115,000.

Muckerman said the event has been instrumental in helping Safe House, including the new shelter that was built in 2019.

"It's a really amazing event that pulls in so many members of the community," Muckerman said.

The VintageNOW spokeswoman said the "awesome" help from sponsors, businesses and individuals makes the event "a tremendous success."

More than 1,800 tickets have already been sold.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $25 at www.vintageNOW.org or Pastimes Antiques, 45 Main St. in Cape Girardeau. Tickets at the door are $30.