Elegance met artistry Oct. 30, when Northeast Pennsylvania Women in Film and Television (NEPAWIFT) hosted a masquerade ball at the historic Dery House, 520 Fifth St., Catasauqua. The free community fundraiser drew more than 150 guests to celebrate creativity and collaboration in support of women working in film, television and digital media.

The event was organized and sponsored by Maria Wirth, managing director of the Business Owners Trade Alliance, and Dawn Robinson, president of NEPAWIFT and owner of Dark Moon Entertainment. Set amid the mansion’s vintage grandeur, the evening featured live entertainment, a costume contest, local vendors and plenty of film-inspired flair. Guests arrived in masks and full costume, adding Venetian-style drama to the already atmospheric setting.

The mansion itself — built in the late 19th century by industrialist George Dery — provided a stunning backdrop for the festivities. Event decor was designed by film set artist Grace Jeffery, of Artistic Trolley Productions, transforming the landmark into a cinematic stage. Visitors were treated to live demonstrations by Bethany “Bethica” Carlisle, who created movie-quality special effects makeup and American Hairlines, who showcased “horror hair” styling straight from the set of a thriller.

The evening included complimentary food, drinks and desserts from local favorites including Chef Ski’s Catering, Cathy’s Creative Catering and Cafe, Amy’s Creative Cakes, Hershey’s Ice Cream, Triple Sun Spirits, Vampire Vineyards and Maisons Marques and Domaines USA Fine Wines. Entertainment was provided by Main Deck Productions and Gig Digger Events and Planning, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

Guests mingled among vendors such as Main Street Makery, Vault 88 Fine Jewelry, Michele’s Flowers, Goddess Goodies, Perla Fragrances, Noraa Body Love and many others offering unique handmade goods, readings and beauty products. Outside the mansion, luxury cars from Black Glass Tinting served as glamorous photo backdrops, while New Tobacco Village created a relaxed cigar lounge on the patio.

“This event was truly a celebration of local talent and collaboration,” Wirth said. “Bringing it to the Dery House Mansion created the perfect blend of artistry and community.”

“This fundraiser helps NEPAWIFT expand programs that champion women’s voices both on set and behind the scenes,” Robinson said. “We’re so grateful to everyone who came out to support the cause.”

More than 100 guests checked in through Alignable.com alone, and more than 150 attended in total — many commenting that the experience was “through the roof.” The elaborate costumes, creative demonstrations and spirited conversations made for an unforgettable evening.

“It was exciting to walk past serious discussions about new collaborations,” Wirth said. “Last night was just the beginning of great potential business opportunities.”

Sponsors included Business Owners Trade Alliance, Dark Moon Entertainment, Carl Volkman and Sons HVAC, Your 5 Star Marketing and Quantifi Media.

Mansion director Sam Blades and owner Herve Rousseau were also recognized for their support. Rousseau noted the historic resonance he feels with George Dery, who was born in Vienna in 1867. Rousseau himself was born exactly 100 years later and purchased the mansion in 2017 — a century after its grand expansion.

The blend of history, film artistry and community spirit made the night one to remember.

For more information about NEPAWIFT and future events, visit the Alignable event page or contact Wirth at mwirth@botatrade.com or 484-225-6063.

NEPAWIFT supports, educates and advocates for women working in film, television and digital media across Northeast Pennsylvania, promoting professional growth and creative opportunity through networking, mentorship and community engagement.