Kevin Kelly opened his first salon when he was only 18 years old. Now, at 25, the Keyport salon owner and celebrity hairstylist has a mission of making people feel beautiful and empowered, in and out of the styling chair. That’s why Kevin Kelly Salon began its charitable fashion shows four years ago, where local boutiques and designers are celebrated while local non-profit organizations are supported. This year’s show was an all-white, Vegas-themed brunch at Piazza di Roma in Aberdeen, packing in more than 150 guests. It was hosted by Real Housewives of New Jersey star Danielle Cabral, who joined the cast in season 13. This year’s beneficiary was Hazlet’s Hope Network, a peer-based non-profit organization that lends support to those struggling with substance abuse. “One of the reasons I chose this charity was that I did have a father who struggled with alcohol and substance abuse, so it just touched home,” Kelly says. “Hazlet Hope actually helped one of my really good friends, too, so they’re near and dear.” The organization, in short, provides hope to the Bayshore area. Those in crisis or looking to live a sober life can call Hazlet’s Hope Network any hour of the day and be connected with a certified coach to seek help. The coaches’ part of the peer-based program have first-hand experience with addiction and recovery. More than $5,000 was raised for Hazlet’s Hope Network, from ticket sales, raffle tickets, casino games and donations. Phil O’Hara, a representative from the organization, says the money will go toward providing financial support for patients who may be in need of housing, treatment, and other costs that are difficult to cover during recovery. The highlight of the event, of course, was the spectacular outfits. Nearly everyone was draped in white head to toe, including the guests; glitzy Vegas show girls; NJ-based drag queen Jolina Jasmine; Cabral (who was in a lacy white jumpsuit with a tulle skirt from Monmouth County-based Pretty Chaos Boutique); and Kelly (who rocked a solid white suit, then a white suit with abstract faces painted on by his grandmother). The only people not in white—but just as chic—were the runway models, showing off pieces from Bijoux Boutique in Middletown, Jenna Rose’s Boutique in Old Bridge, Ronny Kobo, Zemer Jewelers and The Shoe Fairy. On the back of each program was a QR code for a look book of all the runway looks. There will be more fashionable, charitable fun this Friday night, April 26, when another New Jersey salon and housewife will hit the runway for a good cause. Melissa Gorga, veteran RHONJ cast member, will host the 9th Annual Renaissance Runs the Runway, a charitable fashion show by celebrity hairstylist Jennifer Korab’s Renaissance Salon in Hillsborough. Proceeds benefit Steps Together, a Hillsborough-based non-profit that supports families enduring medical crises. The event is already sold out, but keep an eye on their social media for the looks of the evening. No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store. The post ‘RHONJ’ Star and Celebrity Hairstylist Host Charitable Fashion Show appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.

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