Preservers' Membership Campaign Has Its Privileges

Clearly, some memberships have their benefits.

Friends of the Sands Point Preserve, Inc. kicked off its Preservers' Membership Campaign with a Valentine's Day event which included pink champagne, Valentine's treats, a raffle and the exclusive viewing of beautiful models in designer lingerie.

The event, held at the Americana Manhasset's Estee Lauder store and spa, gave members of the community a sneak peek at what being a member of Friends of the Sands Point Preserve, Inc. could entail, according to its treasurer, Jean-Marie Posner.

So why did the organization which could have used many resources to create awareness of its practices, choose to use lingerie?

"It's the day of love we're celebrating," Posner said. "Even back in the early 1900s, lingerie was something that people talked about and it is still an important aspect for women."

But Posner was sure to point out that the event and membership aren't only for those with the two X chromosomes. "This is not just a women's event, it's an event for everyone to participate in," Posner explained, "whether your passion is nature or historic buildings or fashion. We were very pleased."

She added that all of the proceeds from the membership drive will go towards the development of cultural, educational, environmental and recreational programs and facilities.

Friends of the Sands Point Preserve, Estee Lauder and Dani Lingerie collaborated on the special Valentine's Day event filled with treats and sweets. It included an exclusive viewing of new Dani clothing lines, complimentary pink champagne and artisanal cheese. Beauty consultants from Estee Lauder conducted makeup lessons, Microdermabrasion hand treatments, brow consultations and offered beauty tips to entice guests to become members of the Friends of Sands Point Preserve.

"We are honored to help the Friends of the Sands Point Preserve introduce their Preservers' Membership campaign as we launch our exclusive Michael Kors line called 'Very Hollywood,'" said Innessa Mandelbaum of Estee Lauder.

Dani Lingerie held a fashion show to showcase its Valentine's Day and bridal lines, featuring professional models of Hampton Models. "The models were in wearable colors and feminine, sexy pieces that make women feel like women." said Taylor Summit, manager of Dani Lingerie. "Lingerie is supposed to get women in touch with their feminine spirit."

The campaign wasn't just about schmoozing, cheese tasting and a fashion show though. Tony Dalessio, Chairman of the Development of the Friends of Sands Point Preserve, said he felt an event like this could broaden the horizons of the preserve and its members. "Memberships to Friends of the Sands Point Preserve will allow many individuals to connect and network, not only to help the preserve, but to encourage educational programs, activities for family, and enriching cultural opportunities for community members," he said.

Dalessio added that membership privileges extend to students, individuals, or families in addition to sponsorships for corporations, foundations and individuals. He explained that some benefits of membership include invitations to events, free passes and notices about upcoming events.

Friends of Sands Point Preserve is looking for new members, even if they don't live directly in Sands Point or Port Washington, according to Posner. "We want to keep growing," she said. "We feel the relationship with the Americana Manhasset is an important one because they are an anchor for our community, regardless if you live in Port Washington or Manhasset."

Posner said she feels that the Sands Point Preserve shines a light on the community and hopes the number of its supporters continue to increase through events like this. "This is a flagship and a landmark that we feel sets us apart from other communities," she said. "It's a great opportunity to market and expose many different people to the preserve and to what we're trying to do."