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Annual Special Friends Fashion Show was held on May 9 inside Paine’s Restaurant in Hollister. Allison Garcia, a co-worker at New Beginnings Thrift and Resale Shop said she wanted to do something fun, give the clients an opportunity to participate and show off the clothes available at their Hollister store. The shop is located on the corner of Fifth and Sally Streets in downtown Hollister.
“All our clients in the fashion show have to wear an outfit from New Beginnings,” Garcia said, “and then they actually get to take it home.”
She said the girls get to wear dresses with some of the high heels and some of the guys wear slacks, a nice button shirt or even hats.
They are hoping the event brings more awareness of their special needs clients and to the store itself.
“New Beginnings Thrift & Retail Store is the heartwarming vision of Susan Postigo and Allison Garcia, brought to life after years of dedication and passion,” the shop’s website explains. “Our mission is to support children in San Benito County with medical, developmental, and other special needs by raising essential funds through our store,” it says.
More than just a shop, New Beginnings is a community-driven space where special friends play an active role—welcoming guests, crafting unique items for sale, and assisting in daily operations. It is more than a store, “it’s a place of opportunity, inclusion, and empowerment,” the website states.
“The special need client models have doubled from last year,” Garcia said, “and ticket sales are the same just because of the restaurant’s seating capacity.”
“I like walking in the fashion show,” Tammy Trent said. “I like seeing all pretty little dresses and modern dresses.”
“My favorite part of the fashion show is doing the posing,” Sebastian Reyes said. “I wanted to be a cool man and be a rock star.”
Esther Murillo was smiling and having a great time at the Annual Special Friends Mother’s Day Fashion Show.
All photos by Adam Bell.
Glenn Ichien played music for the kids to set the mood for the event. Photo by Adam Bell 
The fashion show also included a large buffet. Photo by Adam Bell 
Guests talked, had a few laughs and enjoyed their food. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Nessa Davis and Anna Membreno walk together during the Fashion Show. Photo by Adam Bell 
Karissa Agan had fun showing off her dress. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Pictures of the Special Friend’s artwork created through the San Benito County Arts Council. Photo by Adam Bell. 
Raffles prizes helped bring in more funding for the nonprofit. Photo by Adam Bell
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