On May 18th, we officially made our entrance into the Palm Springs scene—and we did it in true AvA fashion: with whimsy, elegance, and a whole lot of flair.

Hosted at the iconic Willie’s Restaurant in Rancho Mirage, our debut event was anything but traditional. Titled “Not Your Mother’s Tea Party,” this was a tea party reimagined—think surrealist chic meets high style and googly eyes (yes, really). It was our way of saying hello to the desert in the most memorable, fashion-forward way possible.

From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this wasn’t your average afternoon tea. Tables were playfully adorned with wax lips, mustaches, quirky disguises, and flower arrangements that—much to everyone’s delight—featured eyeballs glued to the blooms. It was equal parts Mad Hatter, Palm Springs glam, and cheeky couture.

Willie’s culinary team leaned into the theme beautifully, serving a surrealist twist on tradition. Scones, tea sandwiches, and pastries were presented with a fabulous edge—unusual in the best way. It was an afternoon tea that Salvador Dali would’ve RSVP’d “yes” to.

Of course, no AvA event would be complete without a show-stopping fashion moment. Guests enjoyed a live runway presentation of our full 2025 collection, with models moving gracefully through the restaurant, showcasing breezy mesh layers, vibrant prints, and the resort-ready silhouettes that define our brand. The show was produced in collaboration with the legendary Susan Stein—fashion maven, Palm Springs icon, and style visionary—whose expertise made the afternoon truly unforgettable.

And because giving back is always part of our mission, proceeds from the event supported the Jocelyn Center, an incredible local organization that provides vital resources and support for older adults in the Coachella Valley.

Following the fashion show, guests were invited to shop the collection in an intimate, hands-on setting. We loved seeing the Palm Springs community engage with the pieces—feeling the fabrics, asking questions, and falling in love with the versatility of AvA.

This tea party was our introduction to the desert, and what a welcome it was. From the playful decor to the heartfelt connections, we couldn’t have imagined a better way to say: Hello, Palm Springs. We’re so happy to be here.

Stay tuned—we’re just getting started.