When it comes to women and their handbags, it’s more than just an accessory; it’s a statement, a necessity, and sometimes even a survival kit. Ally G’s Everyday Angels Foundation seems to know this better than anyone. This incredible non-profit organization, is all about raising money and awareness for people in need, and they sure know how to put the fun in fundraiser. Case in point- their 5th annual High-End Designer Handbag Bingo Night, held on November 1, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Bristol, Connecticut. Over 300 handbag-loving souls packed into the ballroom for a night filled with excitement and philanthropy, all in support of those facing poverty, illness, and natural disasters both near and far.
I brought my friend Karen along for the ride, and from the moment we stepped into the venue, the buzz was undeniable. The room was alive with chatter, laughter, and the sparkle of designer handbags just waiting to be won. Before we even got to the main event, we made our way to the sponsor tables showcasing their unique items and services. This wasn’t your average vendor lineup, there were some real treasures. Sweet Mama’s Mallows had us eyeing their fluffy creations, while Sun & Sand Creations and Two Girls One Craft showed off their creative products. But my absolute favorite moment? Finally meeting Holly, the founder of Dune Jewelry. As someone who’s been raving about my custom Dune pieces for over seven years, meeting Holly felt like meeting a jewelry rock star. I was decked out in my 7 Sands bracelet, Mermaid Bracelet, Luxe Dune Bar Earrings, and a ring she designed, so you can imagine how thrilled I was to chat with her in person.
With our “passport” cards stamped from visiting all the sponsor booths (which entered us into a raffle for yet another luxury handbag!), we were ready for dinner and the main event. The ballroom was electric, with the kind of anticipation that makes you giddy. Ally G herself took the stage to kick things off with an impromptu giveaway that had everyone hooting and cheering like we were at the Super Bowl. The lineup of designer bags were YSL, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Tory Burch, and more, it was enough to make any handbag enthusiast’s heart skip a beat. It was handbag heaven, plain and simple. Karen scored big with a win, and inside her prize bag? Gucci sunglasses. Yes, Gucci sunglasses! Another woman at our table won a YSL cardholder, and we all felt the collective thrill of victory.
Of course, as much as we were swept up in the excitement, Ally reminded us why we were all there, to support Ally G’s Everyday Angels Foundation. The work they do goes far beyond just hosting fun events. This year alone, they’ve helped cancer patients, families who have lost their homes to fires, a stroke victim, a fallen police officer’s family, and a heart transplant recipient. Their reach extends internationally too. On their annual mission trip to England, they volunteered at children’s hospitals, a veterans home, and even an animal shelter. This isn’t just a charity; it’s a lifeline for so many who need it most.
As the night wrapped up, it was clear that the event was a success in more ways than one. Not only did we share an unforgettable evening of laughter, good company, and high-end prizes, but we also supported a cause that’s making tangible, meaningful change. Ally G’s Everyday Angels Foundation has made giving back an event to look forward to, and that’s something truly special. If you’re inspired to learn more or get involved (and trust me, you’ll want to), head over to www.allyg.org and follow them on Facebook (@AllyGsAngels) and Instagram (@AllyGsEverydayAngelsFoundation). Join us at next year’s Designer Handbag Bingo on November 7, 2025, cheer on a friend and cross your fingers for that dream bag!