I remember trying on white dress after white dress, each one more beautiful than the last, wondering how in the world I was going to make a decision. Ultimately, my preference trumped my mother’s, and Swarovski crystals, sewn into the full-bodied satin skirt, trumped all. Donning the crisp white elbow-length gloves — which were so exquisite I refused to take off, thereby spilling soda and staining them, thereby having to buy another pair — completed the look. I was going to the Cinderella Ball.
Founded in 1924, the Cinderella Ball is the oldest charity event in Pittsburgh and the second oldest debutante ball in the nation. The beneficiary for the class of 2011 is the Carnegie Library, where each debutante, before she makes her societal debut, is required to perform at least 18 hours of service. “What’s really remarkable about these ladies is that they have donated nearly 700 volunteer hours to the Carnegie Library, which has been a fantastic recipient. The caliber of young women who are making the time to help something as fundamental as our community library is truly outstanding,” says Laura Kronk, publicity chair for The Cinderella Ball.
They will be recognized on January 29 at the Omni William Penn. The lady-in-waiting who has logged the most volunteer hours receives the Scholarship Award on the night of the Ball.
Though only one lucky debutante’s name will be pulled from the large crystal pumpkin to be Cinderella for the night, each girl presented is indeed a princess. For more information on the Cinderella Ball, visit cinderellaball.info. — K.C.
