April 2010 - For the third year in a row, students from The University of Tennessee's Retail Management Program partnered with Knoxville Habitat for Humanity to transform an empty storefront in the Farragut Building in downtown Knoxville into a chic boutique.

On Thursday, April 8, 2010, the temporary store location was the site of a fundraiser and fashion show where attendees enjoyed food and drinks and a preview of the high-end clothing and accessories available for sale.

On Friday, April 9 and Saturday, April 10, the store was open during the Dogwood Arts Festival on Market Square. The students staffed the store and did a very brisk business, taking advantage of the beautiful weather and all the people who were downtown enjoying the Festival.

By the end of the weekend, the boutique sale rased more than $6,500 for Knoxville Habitat for Humanity. We're so thankful for Dr. Ann Fairhurst and her students for all their hard work and dedication. The money will be used to build more simple, decent and affordable housing in Knox County. 

The idea for the boutique sale first came about more than three years ago. Ginger Baxter, a longtime Knoxville Habitat for Humanity supporter annually hosts a birthday party for herself in her home where her friends bring their high-end designer clothing and accessories in lieu of gifts to be sold at the two-day boutique sale. Knoxville Habitat for Humanity board member Danni Varlan had the idea and the connections to bring the UT Retail Management students into the mix. Every year they handle all aspects of the sale. To date the classes have raised more than $10,000.

Take a moment to check out the photo gallery from the weekend and please read this blog from professional photographers Allan and Lisa Mueller of ALM Photo, who donated their time and talent to capture this event on film. Thank you!