New Fashion Fundraiser To Benefit Families Who Need Ronald McDonald House

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Almost one year ago, April Perri, a mother of three children, opened a boutique at 436 Main St., Beacon, called La Mère, which translates to "the mother” in French. She had just transitioned out of a career as a fashion designer for Abercrombie, White House Black Market, Macy’s, Saks, “and a million others.” Her firstborn child, Lilly, was born with a rare genetic disorder which made her medically fragile. Three years ago, Lilly was hospitalized with septic shock and spent over 100 days in the hospital. During that time, April also had a 2-year-old and a 6-month-old to care for.

April and her family spent days and nights at The Ronald McDonald House - free of charge - as her daughter recovered. The staff at the Ronald McDonald House threw a birthday party for her healthy child - a kind act they did not need to do. “The Ronald McDonald House helped my stress levels tremendously,” April told A Little Beacon Blog. “They allowed me to rest and still be close to all of my children. Staying there helped me stay sane and make good decisions for my daughter’s care.” April even experienced the first steps of her youngest child while staying there.

Fast forward to today, her family is healthy “for now” (as she always adds), and her business on Main Street has been a success. You may have also seen her at different festivals, as she takes La Mère on the road in her La Mère Petite mini shopping trailer.

Today, April wants to give back. “The Ronald McDonald House allowed me to keep my other children and even my mom together during the hardest moments of our lives,” she told her followers on Instagram. “Beacon and the Hudson Valley have been so good to me,” she told A Little Beacon Blog. “I’ve never been in a position to pay it forward until now.”

The Beacon Hotel and Tourmaline Home have teamed up with April to host a fashion fundraiser at the Beacon Hotel on Saturday, September 28, from 5 to 8 pm. The Beacon Hotel is making its own comeback, as it is under new ownership (rather, expanded ownership with an original partner) as well as new management (look for John from The Vault!). See our article on the Beacon Hotel’s major renovation revealed in 2017.

Tickets are on sale now, and include a lot:

If you’ve never met April, then you have one more reason to attend this event. She is a whirlwind of fresh air, and an inspiration to others. Whenever I’m in doubt, I visit April. As evidenced by half my wardrobe right now.

PS: April did twist my arm to be in this fashion show. She threw flattery at my chicken legs, so I’ll be there with other locals showing off the clothes. I made sure to hit up Salon Dae for my color, and A Lucky Cut for my super layers prior to the show.