Complex hosts inaugural doggy fashion show
The sights and the hounds, er, sounds, of the inaugural Merrill Gardens Doggy Fashion Show Friday. (Photo/Christine Pike)
When it comes to giving his residents the best quality of life, Manager Jim Hooper knows how to keep the environment lively and fresh.
At the place that gave its residents a posh pooch wedding in summer of 2024, Merrill Gardens at Solivita Marketplace of Poinciana followed it up Friday and put on the inaugural Doggy Fashion Show, inviting their residents in an afternoon of fun, costumes, and great music.
Resident Miss Emily had a good time helping coordinate the contestants and assisting people on where to go and making the experience a real hands-on one. As the residents lined up to be seated they waited patiently yet very antsy, which showed their level of excitement was through the roof for the festivities. The Activity’s Director did an amazing job decorating the event room with colors of red, white and black portraying an elegant and inviting atmosphere for this amazing event.
Thanks to some 60 residents and guests attending, there was not an empty seat in the house as people started to line up against the walls in anticipation to watch the show. As the D.J. started the music everyone mingled, making this the perfect social event for dancing, talking and laughing as they waited for the contestants to get into costume. Much creativity was displayed as contestants came out dressed matching their dogs in themes such as “Where’s Waldo?”, Cruella De Vil, and Surf Bums.
It was a much-needed distraction from everyday life that brought about connection and togetherness in a way that portrays the staff of Merrill Gardens love their residents.
