Broker Associate, Hannah Martin, of Coastal Luxury Real Estate usually hosts an extravagant celebration drawing hundreds of locals in honor of her birthday each year to benefit local charities in the community. However, in the wake of COVID-19, Martin knew she still wanted to celebrate while raising money for local beneficiaries, but in a responsible way.
Martin’s friends decided to take the reins and host a private birthday benefit at her home and created a GoFundMe for friends, family, and community partners to donate through. From generous donations, Martin raised a total of $10,000 for Westonwood Ranch, a local organization that has been near and dear to Martin’s heart since its inception in 2017.
“Everyone has been affected by this pandemic in some way. It is safe to say that most charitable business models were not prepared to have a “Plan B” in their budget for lost fundraising opportunities during a global pandemic,” said Lindy Wood, founder of Westonwood Ranch. “Hannah Martin has stood beside Westonwood Ranch for the past three years and has been a champion of the special needs community in Walton County. Through her ongoing commitment, Hannah and the foundation found a way to raise $10,000 for Westonwood Ranch in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, we are so thankful.”
Hannah’s annual birthday bash was started in 2014 after Martin’s mentor and business partner, Jimbo Holloway, approached her about raising seed money for Special Olympics Florida — Walton County. Since its inception, the party has raised nearly $400,000 and over the course of seven years has generously donated to a multitude of local charities. Martin’s party has been something locals and visitors look forward to throughout the year due to its large-scale nature and over-the-top themes. The celebration gives attendees an escape from the ordinary and a chance to attend a unique event that is unlike anything else in the area. Previously, Martin has hosted multi-day events as well as upscale wine dinners, carnival-like parties with fire breathers and contortionists, and live auctions. No matter what the party looks like, Martin’s goal has always remained the same, to raise money for local children in need.
“While COVID stopped our original plans for my birthday, like it did for so many around the world,” Martin said. “I still wanted to find a way to give back to these organizations who needed more than ever. No matter what happens around us, they still rely on our support and grace throughout the year to keep their mission alive for these kids.”
Martin plans to resume hosting her La Lumière birthday bash in early 2022. For more information about the La Lumière 2022 events, please visit www.hannahmartinsparty.com. To stay up to date with news and happenings, follow Hannah Martin’s Party on Facebook and Instagram.