BCW Tree Chic Fashion in the Garden Celebrates the Power of Community
On a beautiful June evening, BCW Tree House supporters gathered at the Shah family home in Bronxville for Tree Chic Fashion in the Garden—an elegant celebration of fashion, friendship, and the healing power of community. The Shahs’ stunning backyard was transformed into an enchanted garden runway for a fashion show presented by Baxter in Rye, featuring 21 models from the Bronxville High School Class of 2026, most of whom participated in the Tree House’s first Fashion & Philanthropy Senior Shadowing Program. Guests also enjoyed small bites generously donated by Underhills Crossing Restaurant while coming together to support grieving children and families throughout Westchester.
BCW Tree House Board Chair Wendy Halley welcomed guests by reflecting on the heart of the organization’s mission. “For more than thirty years, the Bereavement Center of Westchester has been the only organization in Westchester dedicated solely to grief support. We don’t treat grief like a sickness to be cured—we help people understand that what they’re feeling is normal, and that they are not alone. As we celebrate the Class of 2026 and the connections they have built, we are reminded of the extraordinary power of coming together—not only in moments of joy and achievement, but also in moments of loss and healing.”
That spirit carried through the evening’s fashion presentation. Baxter in Rye founder Tim Baxter shared collections inspired by the moments that define a Westchester summer. Parent MK O’Shaughnessy, whose son James participated in the show, reflected on the evening’s impact: “Many of us know someone whose life has been touched by BCW Tree House.
BCW Tree House extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, and volunteered to make Tree Chic Fashion in the Garden such a success. Special appreciation goes to event co-chairs Maureen Stapleton, Jenny De La Rosa, and Meghann Paisley; the entire BCW Tree House Board; Sarah Loader for creating and organizing the Senior Shadowing Program; and board member Linda MacKinnon for producing its New York City learning experiences. The organization also thanks the Shah family for graciously opening their home, Baxter in Rye, Underhills Crossing Restaurant, Diana Loft and senior Katie Fezza for designing the runway and stage, and the student models, their families, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters whose generosity ensures grieving children and families receive compassionate care when they need it most.
Congratulations to the Bronxville High School Class of 2026 graduates!
