RAW FUSION 2021

The content used in this magazine is © 2021 Luxe Quarterlies and may not be reprinted in part or in whole without written consent by the publisher. All articles and editorial material represent the opinions of the respective authors.

Contributors Editors: Nate Boots, Lisa Cownie, Design: Exposure Creative, Him and Her Design, Model Photography: Daniel Dinsmore Photography Founding Four Photography: Michelle Isebrand Photography, Marketing: Kaaren Grabianowski, Natasha Weis, Publisher: Luxe Quarterlies

TWO

+ ELEVEN

THOUSAND Eleven years ago, the four of us set out to reimagine an event that we had attended in Minneapolis. We were inspired by the concept and wondered if we could recreate an enhanced version of that in our community. So in went four young women to approach a board of directors with an idea for a fashion show. Many of our peers looked at us like we were a bit crazy, but at the end of the day they trusted our vision and supported our efforts.

Very quickly this little thing we dreamed up called Raw Fusion evolved from three hundred guests in a banquet hall to an arena filled with fifteen hundred. It became a personal challenge to each of us, year after year, to top the last show. How do we make it better?!

We are proud to be so deeply integrated into the Minnesota River Builders Association (MRBA). They are a remarkable organization.

But we are most humbled to have surrounded ourselves by a group of creative individuals. Raw Fusion has constructed a platform for all business sectors to unite, to inspire, and to make a difference. We have met so many people and learned so much about ourselves… both personally and professionally.

Turns out, you can do anything that you set your mind to!

Keep it RAW!

Jamie, Nicole, Jen + Mary

ICON PRESERVING

The Post at 401 is nestled in the downtown Mankato area and will encompass the redevelopment of the historical United States Post Office and Courthouse.

The Post at 401 will be Mankato’s grandest event venue and features a space designed for live performances, private events, rooftop courtyard weddings, receptions, exhibitions, and productions. The Post at 401 will offer a flowing 60,000 square foot site plan dedicated to a high end

AN

restaurant, a speakeasy, spa and salon, along with overnight accommodations for guests to stay within the hub of commerce and community activities.

Originally built in the 1890’s in an area that has long served as the city’s historical downtown, the building has lived many lives in its century of use but is known to most as the United States Post office and Courthouse featured on Mankato City Centers historical line up.

DESIGN

+

ORIGINS OF

By Nate Boots and Lisa Cownie

Was it fortune? Was it timing?

Was it coincidence? Was it fate?

Who knows? But one thing is certain: Jamie Jacobs, Jen Swenson, Nicole Panko, and Mary Kaus—the "Founding Four" of the Mankato staple fashion event Raw Fusion—all felt a similar, raw feeling after co-attending a fashion event in Minneapolis just after their college days had ended. They felt they could do better, and they felt they could do it in their own respective community.

The show they attended in Minneapolis was basically a mildly-attended, smaller-scaled, not-quite-as-high-powered version of what Raw Fusion would become, which is a Construction + Design + Fashion event the likes of which Minnesota has never seen. The night of the show in Minneapolis, the group made an oath of sorts. "After a few cocktails, of course," says Nicole, "we decided that this was something we could pull off in Mankato, and we were determined take it to a new level."

How? Where? Why? But then the big questions arose. Including, according to Jamie, "How and where and why will we do it? Where will we get the money?"

The group came up with a plan, and Jamie and Mary presented the idea to Eric Peters, the president of the Minnesota River Builders Association (MRBA) at the time. Jamie says that Peters basically "gave his blessing, saying, 'I don't necessarily get it, but have at 'er.'"

The support was integral and helped the group get to the next stage. But they still had bridges to gap and minds to convince that they could pull something off that fused the elements of construction, design, and fashion in a unique way. 

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 "There's the idea that people in construction and fashion design seem at odds. So it was something we needed to prove," says Jen Swenson. "We really had to think: How can we make fashion tie in with the building industry?

And then we had to figure out how to bring in funds for a non-profit as well. Any funds we bring in stay in the Mankato area. That was very important to us from day one."

The donation of funds to a non-profit gave Raw Fusion extraordinary purpose, and that seemed to help tie things together. Sponsors and partners soon lined up to support and also participate.

Creative Beginnings All of the founding members of Raw Fusion seemed to have something in their blood that made them want to create, even from the time they were little girls.

"I've always loved building things. Always have identified as an artist," says Jen. Says Mary, "I was always creative growing up and involved in arts. I was in theatre and dance in high school and played the flute and piano. I have always loved fashion and interior design and decorating, and I get that from my mom."

"I loved setting up experiences like a haunted maze or small shows for my family and glamorizing the dinner table with candles and accessories," says Nicole. "I was constantly rearranging our furniture and redecorating around the house. I clearly loved creating ambiance long before I realized it."

"I always felt like a mini-event planner," says Jamie. I held Halloween Parties or dinner parties or spas. I was always creating an experience for people."

Support and Structure As the group pulled off their vision and held the first Raw Fusion event in 2011, they had a lot of help along the way, and they were soon to draw more integral helpers into the fold.

People like photographer Dan Dinsmore or Danielle Germschied from Raydiance Salon or Brian Sather from the civic center.

Another key person who helped the Fusion grow was Brittany Mitchell, a classmate of Jamie and Nicole and Jen's in college at MSU, Mankato, where all were immersed in similar fields of study.

Brittany joined the Raw Fusion team of founders eight years ago, and she quickly became central to making things go, working well with faces familiar to her. “I’ve been involved in every aspect of the show," says Brittany. "From décor to sponsorships to music, sound, and lights to walking the runway as an example for the show."

The vibe of the show is what she finds so enticing.

“Organized chaos," says Brittany.

"Nervous excitement. Pride in what we’ve accomplished. Fingers crossed that everything will go as planned. And a sense of release that whatever is going to happen is going to happen.”

Mitchell says she is not surprised the community has embraced RAW like it has over the last decade. “Our event is unique.

It doesn’t cater to a certain type of crowd.

We’re inclusive and fun. I think we bring something totally different to Mankato. It’s creative and bold,” she says. 

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Keeping It Going  As the years go by and memories stack up, change is inevitable. Many of the founders and supporters have had major life changes from births of offspring to changes in jobs and workloads. Running Raw Fusion is both easier and harder with the passage of time.

Easier simply because of experience and because of an easy familiarity with supporters like MRBA and other sponsors and volunteers and the region.

Harder because, with increased family and work responsibilities, time is at a premium. So what keeps the showrunners going?

"It's the relationships that we've built with this group of people paired with the creative outlet that we are able to get," says Jen. "Seeing how it's developed over the years. It's so much fun to see what people come up with."

"At this point, the show runs itself for the most part," says Mary. "We have it down pat. What keeps me coming back is the enjoyment I get out of it with the rest of the founders. We have a lot of fun. We all really enjoy each other and there is magic when we come together."

"Not only is it personally rewarding, but there is also a big donation waiting for a non-profit after all the hype settles," says Nicole. "It's so fulfilling to be able to do something you love and have it translate into a benefit for the community."

Jamie, the group's unspoken leader, puts it succinctly.

"It's bittersweet," she says. "My husband hunts for his hobby. This is my outlet. It's my creative thing that we—me and my friends—get to have control over. It's something we can do our way."

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WHERE DO I BEGIN? JAMIE IS ONE OF THE STRONGEST WOMEN I HAVE EVER MET. SHE IS THE DRIVER OF THE GROUP, AND WHEN SHE PUTS HER MIND TO SOMETHING, SHE GETS IT DONE. SHE IS GREAT WITH IDEAS AND EXECUTION. SHE IS ALSO DETAILED AND ORGANIZED." — Mary Kaus

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can count this girl in. But ten years later—I

understand the commitment, dedication, passion, and drive it takes to create one of these ensembles. Just when I think I have seen it all, the next year tops it.

WHAT BEING A FOUNDING MEMBER OF RAW FUSION MEANS TO YOU:

It is my creative outlet. Some people have hobbies. I have Raw Fusion. These people are my family. We have grown both

personally and professionally together

over the years, and I am so proud of what we have created here. We are a colorful crowd, full of opinions, ideas, and—most importantly—trust. I love them dearly.

SHE IS A BORN LEADER. IF YOU KNOW ANY DESIGNER, WE ARE ALL OVER THE PLACE. JAMIE IS GOOD AT THAT, BUT SHE REINS US IN WHEN THAT NEEDS BEING DONE. THOUGH SHE HAS HER FAIR SHARE OF SKY-HIGH IDEAS, SHE PULLS US BACK TO EARTH A LITTLE. SHE IS OUR MOTHERSHIP." — Jen Swenson

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JEN IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE EXTRAVAGANT DÉCOR ITSELF. SHE CREATES AMAZING PIECES THAT BLOW US AWAY EVERY YEAR." — Nicole Panko

normal use—it's how product

development grows fundamentally.

WHAT BEING A FOUNDING MEMBER OF RAW FUSION MEANS TO YOU:

Creative Expression. And I love

getting to create an experience for people to enjoy and being able to raise money for our local community.

JEN CAN TAKE A CONCEPT AND MAKE IT A REALITY. IT'S INSANE. SHE'S THE FIRST PERSON TO PICK UP A DRILL OR GRAB A TOTE OUT OF THE CLOSET, THE FIRST PERSON TO DRAW IT, TO MAKE IT. WE ALL HAVE DREAMS. BUT SHE'S NOT JUST A TALKER, SHE'S A DOER. SHE DOES THOSE BIG PIECES, THE BIG PROPS. SHE'S A MASTER ERECTOR." — Jamie Jacobs

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WHAT MAKES YOU MOST APPRECIATE RAW FUSION?

TRANSFORMATIVE FASHION MOMENT:

I don’t have a particularly strong

NICOLE IS A GREAT DESIGNER. EVERY YEAR SHE'S TAKEN THE LOGO OR GRAPHICS AND MADE IT INTO WHAT OUR PROGRAM OR POSTER LOOKS LIKE." — Jen Swenson

interest in fashion, I’m pretty "Plain

Jane’" when it comes to my wardrobe!

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more within creating meaningful

experiences, whether that be within

the design of a physical space, a large group event, or simply entertaining.

WHAT BEING A FOUNDING MEMBER OF RAW FUSION MEANS TO YOU:

Being a founder of Raw gives me a

great sense of pride. We have poured

countless hours over the past 10 years into making each year unique from the years prior. It’s so rewarding to see

the night come together and feel the

energy in the room. After all the hype

has settled, it’s pretty fulfilling to hand over a large check to a local non-profit and see the impact it will have.

NICOLE IS SO TALENTED. SHE CAME UP WITH A LOT OF OUR ORIGINAL GRAPHICS. SHE PUTS TOGETHER THE PROGRAM. SHE ALSO COMES UP WITH A DIFFERENT RUNWAY LAYOUT EVERY YEAR AND SEATING OPTIONS. SHE IS ALSO CREATIVE WHEN IT COMES TO DÉCOR." — Mary Kaus

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Probably every fall going back

SHE'S A NATURAL CONNECTOR. SHE PRESENTS HERSELF AND WORKS

to school shopping with my mom. I loved my fresh new

Adidas. Brand names were really big in the 90s. Not much has changed.

WHAT BEING A FOUNDING MEMBER OF RAW FUSION MEANS TO YOU: Having a vision, seeing it

PROFESSIONALLY

through with hard work,

OR PERSONALLY

a magical group of women

determination, and fun with and a supportive community.

TO MAINTAIN RELATIONSHIPS. IT'S HARD NOT TO LOVE MARY. SHE'S A DOER. SHE JUST DIVES INTO IT." — Jamie Jacobs

SHE'S VERY CONNECTED. THERE NEEDS TO BE A DRIVING FORCE AT FINDING SPONSORSHIPS. BOTH SHE AND JAMIE ARE WELL-SPOKEN AND HAVE GREAT CONNECTIONS. MARY KNOWS EVERYONE." — Jen Swenson

MOMENTS Moments that inspired or gave ideas.

THE NIGHT WE ATTENDED THE SHOW IN MINNEAPOLIS AND DECIDED TO BRING IT TO MANKATO.

GOING TO THE IIDA EVENT AT THE ARIA, WHICH IS A WAREHOUSE TYPE VENUE. WE HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO HAVE OUR SHOW IN A RAW SPACE, AND THIS YEAR [AT THE POST OFFICE] WE ARE MAKING IT HAPPEN!

I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE, AND I CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN BY DOING WHAT I LOVE.

EVERY YEAR IS AN AHA MOMENT. I’M JUST AMAZED HOW IT ALL COMES TOGETHER. THERE ARE JUST FIVE OF US BEHIND THE SCENES. WITH THE HELP OF SOME INCREDIBLE VOLUNTEERS WE PULL THIS AMAZING EVENT TOGETHER. THE BENEFACTORS BRING THESE INCREDIBLE CAUSES THAT JUST MAKE YOU WANT TO HELP THEM CHANGE THE WORLD, EVEN IF IT’S JUST IN OUR SMALL TOWN. IT JUST BLOWS MY MIND.

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MOMENTS Moments of awe or wow factor.

THE BEGINNING OF EVERY SHOW WHEN OUR SIGNATURE “TOOL” SOUNDS PLAY AND LIGHTS GO DARK.

WHEN WE MOVED THE EVENT INTO THE ARENA AND WE HAD DRESS REHEARSAL, ICABOD BLASTED OUR BEGINNING THEME NOISE (THE DRILL) AND THE LIGHTS FLASHED ON THE RUNWAY AND I GOT CHILLS. OUR DREAM WAS TO MAKE THE EVENT BIG AND WE HAD SUCCEEDED.

THE YEAR WE TOPPED 1500 PEOPLE. FROM STARTING AT 300 PEOPLE TO LOOKING OUT OVER THE CROWD WAS A MOMENT I WILL NEVER FORGET, AND ALL I COULD THINK WAS... WOW, WE DID THIS!

I DID AN OUTFIT ONE YEAR WITH MY CO-WORKER JORDAN. IT WAS THE FIRST TIME I’VE EVER CREATED SOMETHING SO INCREDIBLE. IT TOOK SO MUCH TIME. AND IT TOOK AN ARMY, FRIENDS AND FAMILY, AND MY SISTER WAS THE MODEL. THE OUTFIT, THE ACCESSORIES, THE HAIR, THE MAKEUP… I HAD NO IDEA HOW MUCH WORK IT WAS GOING TO BE. HOURS UPON HOURS OF WORKING LATE NIGHTS AND WEEKENDS.

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bodyconceptsmankato.com

In 2016, River Valley Woman magazine featured the Raw Fusion event and winners in a seven page spread in their GET CREATIVE issue. We are excited to share that feature here as it’s a wonderful overview of what Raw Fusion is all about and helped to generate buzz for future events. Thank you to River Valley Woman for their support and for letting us re-create the article.

ART

By Kelly DeVriendt Photos By

Dan Dinsmore Photography

GeT CReaTiVe! Raw Fusion Art MeetS rAw MAteriAlS

Painter

Malia Wiley Saga Design Group The Mason Jar RiveRvalleywoman.com

The Raw Fusion Fashion Show walked onto the Mankato scene six years ago, offering up a hip and unique twist to a sometimes stale fundraiser market.

Founders, Jamie Sorensen, Mary Kaus, Jen Swenson and Nicole Panko wanted to do something for the community that also would help build awareness for their industry. “We needed something empowering,” said Jamie Sorensen.

After seeing a similar show hosted by the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), all agreed that is was something they could bring to Mankato. “We thought, we can do this and we can do it bigger,” said Panko.

Stepping away from chicken kiev dinners and bake sales, Raw Fusion puts raw materials onto a fashion runway. Area businesses are asked to create wearable designs out of building materials for models to showcase on a New York inspired runway.

The Verizon center is transformed to match the theme of each year. This year, Cirque Du Freak was chosen and featured a big top and fire-breather. The models entered the runway through the mouth of a giant clown head.

“The fire-breather almost didn’t happen,” said Amy Kolb, the Executive Officer for MRBA in Mankato, “We didn’t get clearance for that until the Monday before.”

Year one and two were building years with the founders

campaigning and solidifying sponsorships. “We were begging friends to help and to get involved,” said Sorenson.

Today, people come to them eager and inspired to be a part of the show. Much of the growth and interest has been largely attributed to word of mouth. The high-energy, abstract fashion show has become an annual highlight for many in the Mankato community.

“I think people are drawn to the idea of a glamourous night on the town, a reason to dress up. It feels like you are in a much larger city,” said Panko. “It definitely does not feel like a traditional fundraiser,” added Sorensen.

Glamour and fashion are not terms usually associated with the building industry. Yet, Raw Fusion is presented by the Minnesota River Builders Association (MRBA). MRBA is a nonprofit networking organization which also lobbies on behalf of the building industry.

“We talked to the president [of MRBA], who kind of laughed, but eventually told us to go for it,” said Kaus.

Since then, the team works year-long to coordinate and organize. It is hundreds of hours of work - all volunteer. “I am not sure people realize what it takes to pull off the event,” said Kaus.

The volunteer numbers and hours have increased every year, undoubtedly helping the growth and the energy of the show.

McKnight Foundation Winners

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The consistency of the four founders acting as the base has ensured a nearly flawless execution.

The event’s purpose is twofold: to bring attention to the local building industry and to raise funds for a local nonprofit. To be considered, non-profits submit an application and Raw Fusion board members chose the recipient.

This year 27 local companies submitted designs. Entries must utilize raw building material in their designs. Models then showcase the creations by working the stage and competing for various recognitions. 

MATERIALS

Costume: Double Headed Queen of Freaks Company: Liv Aveda Designers: Ashley Stanley, Bridget Oslund, Emily Schoper, Nicole Comstock and Pat McGowan Materials: Vertical blinds, landscaping fabric, PVC pipe Model: Tessa Flies

FLOAT

Award: People’s Choice

bodyconceptsmankato.com

THERAPY

 Six of the twenty-seven creations walked off the runway with an award.

Cherry Creek has been involved in Raw Fusion every year. This was the first year however that Julie Rudolf has done the design work.

“I wanted to do something outside of the box,” said Rudolf. She took the Cirque Du Freak theme and gravitated towards a vintage circus image. After doing the research, she was inspired with the theatrical and over- the-top concepts of the old-time circus.

Deciding on the Tamer and Cat, Rudolf had a general idea of how she wanted the costumes to come together.

However, the design process started with one piece and then was continually built from that.

“We made sure we used raw materials to transform each piece to make it unique and defined,” said Rudolf.

The Tamer’s shoulder pads were made of carpet to mold the piece. The rosebuds were carved out of duct tape, while the tutu was dry vent that was ripped apart from a furnish filter. Glass and mirror tiles adorned the outfit as well.

The cat’s collar was window screen, layered to create petals. The fur was carpeting that was painstakingly ripped off its backing to be glued to the pants.

“It was a labor of love,” said Rudolf.

Presently working in Marketing at Cherry Creek, Rudolf has a background spent around the fine arts. Previously a dancer herself, and now with three daughters in dance, it was a no-brainer for Rudolf to bring in the Mankato Ballet Company.

“The dancers [Kelsey Chester and Riley Thomas Weber] are used to being on stage. I knew they could pull off the concept and give a theatrical performance,” said Rudolf.

Obviously she was right, as the team danced off with the coveted Show Stopper award.

This is even more impressive considering the weight of the costume. “The arms of the costume weighed 8-9 pounds,” said Chester, “and after wearing it for four to five hours, my arms actually went a little numb.”

It becomes even more impressive when you hear that they did not finalize their stage routine until the morning of the show. “Riley and I have both been performing all our lives. We had an idea of what we wanted to do, but were not sure how to fit it smoothly on the stage and we didn’t even know about the timing-what song would even be playing,” explained Chester.

The future may hold another opportunity for Rudolf’s design to steal the show. When asked if she’d do it again, she stated, “In a heartbeat.”

Last year, Kristin Malterer attended the Raw Fusion show and thought, “Gosh that would be really fun.”

So this year, she entered her husband’s two-year-old business, brought in her friend, Danielle Ceminsky, to help with the design and took home one of the six awards.

“I wanted something on the pretty side,” said Malterer, “I also wanted to make sure the materials I used were true to the business.”

Starting with copper, she built upon the design from there. The head piece and corset were copper and she then incorporated blue furnace filter with flexible ductwork.

This decision to focus on the materials as a way to make the design more meaningful is what earned her the Raw Factor award. This award goes to the design with the best use and most use of raw materials.

The model they recruited was also a first-timer to hit the stage or even attend the show. Mercedes Vetter’s sister had previously modeled for Vetter Stone and coincidentally also won the Raw Factor award.

“I had wanted to do it since my sister did it. I was so excited when they asked me,” said Vetter.

With a high-school history that included theater, Vetter claims she was not nervous to hit the stage at Raw Fusion despite the large crowd in attendance and despite the challenges of simply wearing the outfit.

“The headpiece was heavy, so I had to be careful that it didn’t fall. The skirt was itchy and the copper had 

Award: Cirque du Freak Costume: Freak Show Marionette Company: Partners for Affordable Housing Designers: Malia Wiley and Wendi Schoeb Materials: Ty-Vek, window screen, aluminum foil tape Model: Amanda Wetzel

Award: Founders Favorite Costume: Wind-Up Girls Company: Snell Motors Designers: Melissa Bradley, Anne Wolff and Maria Person Materials: Vehicle mirrors, CDs, air filters Models: Maria Person and Kassie Malchow

collaboration working in harmony

Award: Most Wearable

 some sharp edges; I got used to walking with my arms out,” said Vetter.

Malterer and Ceminsky worked hard to make the outfit as wearable as possible for Vetter, however, there is only so much you can do to make copper easy to wear.

“You think about in your head, but to actually get it all to work and to fit a human body is definitely a challenge,” said Malterer.

“We practiced a lot and by the time of the show, I was used to its quirks. Walking out onto the stage was thrilling,” said Vetter.

Overall, Malterer welcomed the opportunity to use her creative side. Having studied graphic design in college, she feels designing is in her blood.

“It was worth all the work,” said Malterer, who estimated that she contributed around 120 hours of time to the design and event, all on a volunteer basis.

“I am in shock and awe that this has all happened.

That so many people come together and put forth so much effort with all the proceeds going to a nonprofit,” said Malterer.

Courtney Anderson was on double duty this year as both designer and model. This year was also her first year to enter and she did so without ever having seen the show.

RIckway Carpet is a member of the Minnesota Builders Association and wanted to participate.

Anderson, eight months into her sales job at Rickway, was asked to do it.

“I knew I could come up with something,’ said Anderson after looking at some pictures from last year’s show. “It seemed like it would be fun and we have a lot of raw materials.” With a sewing hobby and previously won costume contests under her belt, Anderson began googling freak show side show and her team settled on the mermaid idea.

She began walking around work asking, “Can I have this? Can I have this?” Thankfully, most often the answer was yes and Anderson, with the help of her friend, Nicole Ronich, began building the costume piece by piece.

The top boasted mosaic tiles on the straps and the fish scales were made of upholstery trim from windows, while the trident utilized the carpet.

With her modeling duties, Anderson felt a bit nervous at the rehearsal, but once she walked down the stage the fear subsided and she found it more fun. “The whole event was so well organized.

It really helped me to not get nervous,” said Anderson.

With approximately seventy hours of time put into the event, Anderson confirms that finding the time to work on the costume was the most challenging aspect. However, she follows that up with, “I am already planning next year, just waiting to hear the theme.”

After having the honor of being the recipient of last year’s fundraiser, Partners for Affordable Housing wanted to be involved again. So, they decided to enter a design.

Deb Newman from the agency put the team together; Designer Mailia Wiley, Seamstress Wendi Schoeb and Model Amanada Wetzel did not know each other prior to this collaboration.

Schoeb, having previously done costumes for special occasions, was thrilled to be asked. “I like making something out of nothing,” said Schoeb.

“Plus I loved the freak show theme. I really get into Halloween and the idea of sideshows.”

The team began by timidly throwing out ideas and soon the synergy began to blossom. “I knew our original sketch would morph, but was surprised as to how much it actually did,” said Schoeb.

She spent two hours alone on each of the sleeves for the costume. “Deb was nervous 

Costume: Fiji Mermaid Circus Freak, ½ Fish ½ Human Company: Rickway Carpet Designers: Courtney Anderson, Marilyn Christiansen and Nichole Ronich Materials: Window treatment, foam underlayment and carpet Model: Courtney Anderson

Award: Raw Factor Costume: Circus Show Girl Company: Malterer Mechanical Designers: Kristin Malterer & Danielle Ceminsky Materials: Sheet copper, copper pipe and furnace filter Model: Mercedes Vetter

Custom Built Homes & Renovations d ei c h ma n co n st r u c t i o n .co m

Award: Show Stopper

 about it getting done, but I find deadlines enjoyed,” ensured Schoeb.

Beginning with a dress previously owned by her daughter for a base, they built it up with all the raw materials. In the end, the only thing that remained intact, as it originally started, was a small corset on top.

“Getting the dress and monster to get along was a challenge,” said Schoeb. Wiley made the prop piece by piece, earning them the award for the best use of theme.

Another challenge was getting the dress to stay on the model. What was their solution? Extra duct tape of course.

Wetzel likely did not anticipate being duct-taped when she initially signed on, although she says, “I was falling all over myself wanting to do it.” With a background of cheerleading, dancing and theater, she clearly did not suffer from stage fright.

Is there a chance we will see this newly formed team back at it next year? Both Schoeb and Wetzel offered up, without hesitation, a very firm, “Yes.” Liv Aveda is three for three in the People’s Choice award category. They began entering designs three years ago at the urging of Daniel Dinsmore. “He kept harassing us to do it. He said we were far too creative not to,” said designer Ashley Stanley.

Clearly, he was right. Not only has the Aveda team swept the People’s Choice award since they started entering, they also brought their creation to the Fusion and Fashion Show put on by the International Interior Design Associate in

the Twin Cities. There too, they strolled off the catwalk with two awards: People’s Choice and Best in Show.

The winning outfit was built up from landscaping fabric.

“Because of the talent on our team, we had the opportunity to make an outfit that was completely raw,” said Stanley. In fact, the only thing on the entire piece that was not raw was the zipper.

The vertical blinds that were used to make the dress took more than twelve hours to cut and piece together and then another twelve plus hours of layering and sewing.

“This year was definitely the heaviest outfit,” said model Tessa Flies. Flies has been modeling for the Aveda team since the start. With a background in cheerleading, Tessa has definitely been an asset in capturing the People’s Choice award.

“They put me through something different every year,” said Flies. Who in truth, doesn’t seem to mind. “I just tell them to let me know what they need from me.”

Stanley attributes the team’s success to the fact that is has been the same team year after year.

“We have gotten better every year,’ she said, adding, “It’s a lot of work, and it’s all done on a volunteer basis. However, it’s such a sense of pride.”

Models Maria Person and Kassie Malchow had to be driven to the show standing in the back of a truck. “Once those things were on, they were never coming off,” said Person. Person admits that the outfit was uncomfortable, tight and heavy.

The suffering paid off as Snell Motors, which has been participating in the event since 2012, received the first-ever awarded Founder Favorite prize.

‘It was so nice to be recognized, especially by the founders who have seen it all,” said Person.

Snell staff, being big fans of the River Builders Association, initially approached the founders asking to be involved.

“It was such a great opportunity to increase awareness of the company and a whole new way to interact with our brand,” said Anne Wolff, Designer and Sales and Marketing rep at Snell.

Wolff and Person, along with Melissa Bradley, worked as

Costume: Tamer and Cat Company: Cherry Creek, Mankato Ballet Designer: Julie Rudolf Materials: Mirror and glass tile, carpeting, window screening, cabinetry Models: Kelsey Chester and Riley Thomas Weber

designers for this year’s entry. Person also did double-duty acting as one of the models.

The team started to meet three to four evenings a week at the end of March to get it started and then continued meeting a few days a week leading up to the event. Wolff played a larger role in the conception piece and Person pitched in on brainstorming and production.

“Each year is bigger and better. There is a lot of pressure to come up with something amazing,” said Wolff.

This year, the team actually had to get out the power tools. The carousel skirts were actual building materials from remodels at the shop. The interior of the skirt was plywood for the top and bottom because it was light and could be level.

“You think you have the right materials until you get to the execution and they don’t hold up,” explained Wolff. Two full nights were spent constructing the carousel skirts.

One could assure that at that point, the decision to make two skirts instead of one was regretted, however Wolff asserts that, “Twins have a strange impact. It was a good decision.”

Clearly, they were right.

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MOMENTS Moments of sexiness or coolness.

WHEN MODEL NOELLE LAWTON TOOK TO THE RUNWAY. WHEN MY OLD FRIEND DANNY DOBSON CAME OUT OF A PALLET BOX ONSTAGE FOR OFFICE SPACE DESIGN SHIRTLESS. THE LADIES LOVED IT! ONE OF THE BEAUTIES OF BEING A LOCAL HERE IN MANKATO IS THAT I HAVE KNOWN HIM SINCE I WAS IN SECOND GRADE, AND LOOK AT US NOW!

WHEN A MODEL PUSHES THE ENVELOPE. LOVED THE YEAR OF ARE YOU READY TO ROCK. THOSE MODELS REALLY BROUGHT IT. THE STAGE PRESENCE WAS AMAZING.

HONESTLY, ANY TIME WE HAVE A MALE MODEL IT’S PRETTY FUN. THEY BRING SOME SWAGGER TO THE SHOW FOR SURE. ESPECIALLY IF THEY’RE HALF DRESSED.

2011

Habitat for Humanity

2012

Habitat for Humanity

2013

Minnesota Valley Action Council Shades of Shimmer

2014

Feeding our Community Partners Warehouse District

2015

Partners for Affordable Housing Dark Forest

2016

One Bright Star Cirque du Freak

Total amount donated over nine years $149,000.

2017

Greater Mankato Area United Way Are You Ready to Rock

2018

Educare Candyland

2019

Jonathan Zierdt Cancer Fund Mythology

2021

Minnesota Valley Action Council Reinventing the Runway

CHERRYCREEK.BUILD

000

By Lisa Cownie

Helping hands abound at Raw Fusion.

Here are just a couple of the behind the scenes people who make Raw Fusion a big success.

Runway Reporter: Ann Rosenquist Fee It didn’t take long for Raw Fusion to become the hottest ticket in town. Sold out shows left many clamoring for a chance to be in the know… from the outside.

Enter Ann Rosenquist Fee. As an artist and a fashion writer, Fee was the perfect fit to be tapped to bring the spectacle to those who couldn’t see it for themselves. This assignment, though, like so many of the costumes in the show, was over the top for Fee. “Live tweeting from the Raw Fusion runway was like the Olympic competition of style writing,” reflects Fee. “There was so much to say about every entry and so little time to say it! It was a fabulous creative workout.”

Creativeness and art touches pretty much every aspect of Fee’s life. As executive director of the Arts Center of St. Peter, she is also a fashion blogger and columnist as well as a vocalist for a popular local musical ensemble.

What attracted her to this creative endeavor however, was the chance to bring art to the masses in an unlikely way.

“What I love most about Raw Fusion is how it showcases the artistry of people and organizations we don't

normally associate with art. It's like living proof that everybody has the drive to create. We just need the right conditions. And wow, turns out the Minnesota River Builders Association plus fashion plus a good cause equals the perfect conditions.”

That collection of community members makes it stand out to Fee. She quips, “It's a competitive runway show featuring outrageous couture made from raw building materials by teams of local volunteers from all different sectors of the community. I mean, really, what could be better than that?”

Coiffing the Costumes: Raydiance Salon and Danielle Germscheid Fifty cans of hair spray. Forty vials of color. Thirty different shades of lipstick. Twenty hands twisting and curling and slicking strands of hair. Ten years of putting the finishing touches on Raw Fusion costumes.

Raydiance Salon and its owner Danielle Germscheid are responsible for the finishing touches.

Raw Fusion is known for its outrageous costumes, but the creativity doesn’t end with what the models wear.

“We have been the hair and make-up sponsor, which

means we help to facilitate the design and inspiration to complete the look for each model,” explains Germscheid. “I love seeing the finished product all come together during the runway show.

It is also so fun being part of a community that finds unique ways to raise money for a charitable event.”

Germscheid says the anticipation of seeing the costumes and then designing the hair and makeup around them is what keeps her team coming back year after year. And while she says she and her team love them all, one year of costumes does stand out in her mind.

“I think my favorite would have to be the year of the Candy Land theme,” reflects Germscheid. “There was a lot of variety in all of the styles, and it seemed like everyone had a lot of fun with it.”

Having fun with it has always been the theme.

Germscheid says while everything runs smoothly out on the runway, it’s more of a controlled chaos backstage, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“My best backstage memory is just experiencing all of the craziness during the day—helping get everyone ready and then being able to enjoy the show as a salon seeing everything come together!”

Candee.

Candee Deichman, REALTOR® 000

MOMENTS Moments of the bizarre or weird.

THE FIRE BREATHER AND THE GUY THAT SWALLOWED THE SWORD AT CIRQUE DU FREAK. EPIC!

I DEFINITELY THINK THAT CIRQUE DU FREAK YEAR WAS THE WEIRDEST—OUR THEME WAS “IT’S ABOUT TO GET FREAKY.” WHEN VOLUNTEERS MADE A RUNWAY OPENING THAT LOOKED LIKE AN EVIL CLOWN—IT WAS WEIRDLY PERFECT.

WE’VE HAD SOME PRETTY ECLECTIC MOMENTS OVER TIME. THE CIRQUE DU FREAK YEAR WAS PRETTY FREAKY. ALL I WILL SAY IS CLOWN FACE. THOSE WHO KNOW WILL KNOW.

THERE WERE QUITE A FEW OF THOSE MOMENTS OVER THE YEARS! EVERYTHING FROM MIXED-UP TIMING, WARDROBE MALFUNCTIONS, AND MISSING MCS!

AARO NH ATA N PA .CO M

windows that inspire

SchmidtMankato.com 000

SO...

WHAT DOES RAW FUSION BRING TO THE MANKATO AREA COMMUNITY?

GLAD YOU ASKED! We've had young women come up to talk to us and say that our show has inspired them. Makes us feel old!

But it's pretty cool.

Not only does it financially benefit a different non-profit organization each year, it also gives our community members a night out like nothing else around.

It is such a fun event celebrating art and creativity. I think mostly everyone enjoys it who comes, including men! It’s an event that I think you can attend and truly be yourself. Raw Fusion is a staple event in our community, and I am proud of the impact we have had on giving back to the different non-profit organizations that we have chosen each year.

The show is a huge undertaking.

We’ve had wonderful support from our beneficiaries the day of and we could not do it without them. People are amazing in this community. We don’t do surprises.

Everything is planned to the T. I think we amaze ourselves every year with what we pull off.

FINAL WORDS...

The best part is that one final walk.

Knowing that we f%*#ing did it.

Everything just comes together. We chase the high of getting satisfaction from forty-five minutes of runway.

—Jamie Jacobs ... And then we have to clean up.

BlindsandMore.org

MOMENTS Moments of worry or concern.

ONE YEAR I ACCIDENTALLY SHOWED THE WINNER OF AN AWARD ON THE BIG SCREEN PRIOR TO IT BEING ANNOUNCED! I DON’T THINK TOO MANY PEOPLE SAW IT THOUGH.

NICOLE AND I HAD AN OOPS MOMENT RUNNING THE SLIDE SHOW AND SHOWED THE WINNER PREMATURELY. WHOOPS!

THERE HAVE BEEN MANY TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES OVER THE YEARS. NONE THAT STAND OUT MORE THAN OTHERS. BUT MAYBE OUR WALKIES NOT WORKING AND RUNNING THE AWARD WINNER NAMES UP TO THE STAGE. OR OUR TEXT TO VOTE APP LOCKED US OUT BUT WE WERE ABLE TO GET RIGHT BACK IN. I MAY HAVE GOT A LITTLE NERVOUS ON THAT ONE!! THERE ARE ALWAYS SURPRISES WITH WHAT THE MODELS DO TOO… GOOD SURPRISES. BUT YOU END UP THINKING, OH S%*#… THEY REALLY DID THAT!!

THE WHOLE YEAR OF PLANNING HAS MOMENTS OF CONCERN OR WORRY. BUT THERE’S NEVER BEEN ANYTHING WE CAN’T HANDLE. WE’VE BEEN A TEAM FOR 10 YEARS. WE’VE BEEN FRIENDS LONGER. WE’RE FAMILY.

sawatzkypools.com

MAKING HISTORY

BY MOVING FORWARD

By Lisa Cownie

Each year over the past decade, the Raw Fusion event has created a one-of-a-kind experience for guests. Each year the committee asks itself, “How do we make the space feel different from last year?”

This year, they found their answer by happenstance. Committee member Jamie Jacobs works for APX Construction Group. APX had a thrilling, new project come before them. While seeing the vision for the project, Jacobs had another vision as well: They could have their raw event in a raw space—the post office building in downtown Mankato.

Built in 1895 as a federal post office and courthouse, the building now stands empty. It is very raw right now. But not for long. Plans are in the works to transform the building into an epic event center.

The Raw Fusion committee approached the ownership group with the idea of

moving Raw Fusion into the raw space. The ownership group was so enthused by the idea, they donated the venue for the cause knowing it would be a great way to let the community experience the building before it undergoes its transformation.

The Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center has been one of the event’s greatest partnerships over the life of Raw Fusion. It is a grand space, both by design and scale. But it’s leaders understood the vision for moving the event and gave their blessing.

The post office building is currently standing still in time, but the Raw Fusion event will give it life for a night. The bare floors and exposed walls will be the scene for this year’s runway.

One last hoorah for the history books before revitalization construction begins in the new year on a 60,000 square foot event center and restaurant.

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MOMENTS Moments of triumph and jubilation.

AFTER THE SHOW EACH YEAR, CHEERS!

I WOULD SAY THAT WHEN DARK FOREST WAS OVER THAT WAS A HELL YES MOMENT. THAT YEAR WE WORKED SO HARD BUILDING THE ARENA AND OUTFITTING IT WITH REAL TREES THAT WE PULLED AND PALLETS. IT LOOKED LIKE A FOREST. IT WAS THE FIRST YEAR IN THE ARENA, SO THE SHOW WAS A LOT BIGGER. THE ENSEMBLES WERE GORGEOUS AS WELL.

EVERY YEAR WHEN THE MODELS DO THEIR FINAL WALK DOWN THE RUNWAY. YOU CAN FEEL THE MUSIC AND ENERGY IN EVERY SINGLE INCH OF YOUR BODY.

EVERY MOMENT THE LIGHTS GO DOWN, THE MUSIC STARTS, AND THE MODEL STEPS OUT IS A HELL YES MOMENT!!!! IT’S ALL OUR HARD WORK PAID OFF RIGHT BEFORE OUR EYES. IT’S A HARD FEELING TO BEAT.

THE PURE ENERGY AT THE #AREYOUREADYTOROCK SHOW! IT WAS SUCH A FUN VIBE! WE WERE NERVOUS ABOUT MIXING IN LIVE MUSIC!

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SCREW IT! MOMENTS Moments of taking a chance or giving up.

THE NIGHT BEFORE THE SHOW EVERY YEAR!

HMMMM, I WOULD SAY IN THE BEGINNING, WE WERE LIKE, SCREW IT, LET’S START AN EVENT. IT BLOSSOMED FROM THERE. WE ARE ALL VERY SURE OF OURSELVES, SO WE DON’T REALLY THINK WE ARE TAKING CHANCES.

I THINK WE TEND TO PUSH THE ENVELOPE WITH OUR SHOW. IT IS DEFINITELY AN ADULT CROWD AND YOU MAY SEE THINGS THAT MAKE YOU A BIT UNCOMFORTABLE. SO FUN TO THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND REALIZE WE HAVE A PLATFORM TO DO IT.

WE HAVE EVERYTHING PLANNED DOWN TO THE MINUTE THE SHOW STARTS. ONCE THAT MUSIC STARTS AND THE FIRST MODEL STEPS OUT, IT GOES OUT OF OUR HANDS. THEY USUALLY JUST BRING IT AFTER THAT. IT’S MIND BLOWING.

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