Not everyone can afford a fancy dress for their graduation, but a sweet fundraiser from The Princess Shop can help with that.

Executive Director Kelsey Murphy says the group began in 2007 to help people facing barriers to grad celebrations by providing dresses.  Since then, more programs have been added, like life skills, education and career support, and a fairy godmother program, which is for mentorship.

The annual MNP “Dress It Up” Cupcake Contest has in the past been one of The Princess Shop’s smaller fundraisers, but because of the cancellation of their April gala last year and no gala this year, Murphy says, like all other organizations, they have had to be creative.

This year the Cupcake Contest will be virtual.  Participants will get a tray of mini cupcakes from local bakers, all decorated to look like gowns from their inventory.  For an extra $5, the tray will be delivered and for $80, you will receive the cupcakes, a drink from the Crossmount Cider Company, and a charcuterie box from the Prairie Grazer.  There is also a pay-it-forward option, where you can buy a ticket for one of The Princess Shop’s clients, and if there are enough, they will also go to some healthcare workers.

You need to register for the virtual event which is next Saturday, and the deadline is Monday.

Find out more about The Princess Shop here.