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In an effort to raise awareness and support for Pets Alive, a local no-kill animal sanctuary, the Chappaqua jeweler hosted a charity shopping cocktail event from 5 to 8 p.m.
Within the first hour, the store was filled by guests walking on two—and four—legs.
“Pets Alive is one of my favorite local charities,” said Tara Mikolay, who owns the store with her husband Scott. “Tonight is a great night for my customers to get a gift that gives back.”
Her husband was equally excited.
“Tonight is really about getting the shelter what it needs,” he said. “It’s hard to do anything without the right supplies. Our customers are so generous to us, so this is one way for us to spread that generosity around.”
In the event’s three-hour window, everything in the store was discounted 10 percent, along with a significant amount of the profits going towards Pets Alive. Mikolay’s goal for the night was $10,000. The store was also accepting any gift off of the Pets Alive’s wish list.
“We have some very loyal customers who I anticipate coming in tonight with their whole Christmas shopping list,” she said.
Teaming up with Desires by Mikolay for this event was Wine Enthusiast, who donated select wines and the neighboring Gail Patrick’s Café, who donated food.
“When I heard about what Tara was doing, I immediately jumped on board,” said Gail Patrick’s Café owner Patrick Filacchione. “I’m an animal lover and Pets Alive is a tremendous no-kill shelter.”
Pets Alive was represented at the event by their Development Director, Melissa Stone. Stone said she was excited to meet new people in the community, while also getting a chance to look at some jewelry.
“My goal tonight is not to shop too much,” she joked.
The first guest to arrive with their dog was Andy Bronen, a Millwood resident. Bronen brought his nine-month old rescue mix named Maybe.
“I need to shop for my wife’s birthday and I was excited I got to bring her with me,” he said.
For Chappaqua residents Ed and Jill Notarpole, buying jewelry for a great cause was also welcomed opportunity. They brought their mix named Reba.
“I’m here shopping tonight specifically for this cause,” said Jill Notarpole. “It’s a great one.”
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