This year's Charlie House Fizz & Fashion events raised a record-breaking £31,014 this year to continue supporting babies, children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, and their families, across the North-east of Scotland.
More than 300 guests attended the charity fashion shows at The Mansefield Hotel in Elgin and Aberdeen’s Union Kirk, as the events brought communities together to shine a spotlight on some of the incredible parent carers supported by Charlie House. This year marked a milestone 10th Fizz & Fashion in Aberdeen and the first-ever show in Elgin, bringing the popular event to Moray for the very first time.
Hosted by local talent Kevin Littlejohn, guests enjoyed a packed afternoon of entertainment, including a special performance from the Aberdeenshire Rock Choir, fundraising games, and a two-course meal, all topped off with fashion runway shows featuring parent-carers models.
Each parent-carer model received professional hair and makeup sessions before being styled in two runway-ready looks by local stylist Victoria Mutch of Style for Your Shape.
Parent-carer model mum Lindsey shared her experience of the day, saying:
“We were all so nervous, myself included, but the fantastic 'glam squad' managed to make us all look so picture perfect, with beautiful hair-ups and perfect cat-walk-ready make up.
"What made the day even more meaningful was the fact that I got the chance to spend time with many of the Charlie House mums. It made me realise that none of us are alone in this journey — no matter how isolating the constant hospital trips or medical challenges can be.
"The day was all about us — and sometimes, being given that chance to be 'us' is all that we need to keep us going.”
During both events, guests heard directly from Charlie House-supported parent Gemma, who was joined on stage by her daughter Sophie to share their family’s story. Gemma spoke about becoming a mum at just 16 to her eldest daughter, Sam, who was born prematurely at 29 weeks, and about the medical challenges Sam has faced throughout her life. She also reflected on the reality of balancing Sam’s care with raising her other children.
Sophie shared her own experience of growing up as a young carer, and the emotional impact of having a sibling with life-limiting conditions.
“Even though I’ve witnessed things with my sister that many others wouldn’t, I would never change our story. I take it as a blessing every day instead of bad luck.” said Sophie during her speech. “Knowing my sister’s time is limited enough as it sits heavy on my heart, but it helps to know we have an amazing support such as Charlie House.”
The Fizz & Fashion fortnight was made possible thanks to the generosity of an incredible network of local businesses, professionals, sponsors, supporters, volunteers and attendees, all who helped create two unforgettable days.
Headline sponsor of Fizz & Fashion Aberdeen, Director of Scott James & Associates, Scott James said, “The fizz was flowing, and the fashion was fantastic!"
He added: “As a parent myself, I can’t imagine the challenges many of these parents and carers face. It’s an honour to give back and support a cause that does so much for children and families across the North-east.”
Denholm Environmental proudly supported the Elgin event, helping bring the magic of Fizz & Fashion to the Moray community.
“I remember my first meeting with a Charlie House representative back in 2018 when they passionately explained their vision and shared their personal story. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room,” said Julie McAdams, Business Manager at Denholm Environmental. “Denholm Environmental is extremely proud to be the title sponsor of this incredible event, and we’re delighted to continue our support for Charlie House in 2025.”
Louise Bone, Charlie House Fundraising Co-ordinator and lead organiser of the events added, “To bring Fizz & Fashion to Elgin for the first time and celebrate ten years in Aberdeen in the same month was incredibly special. We’re so thankful to everyone who made it possible, their support means we can create a special moment for the parent-carers to feel seen, supported and celebrated. Our parent-carer models inspire us every day.”
To register your interest in future Fizz & Fashion events, as well as other upcoming Charlie House events and challenges, visit:
