On January 21, we were spellbound by the 20 beautiful military moms and moms-to-be we met at our “Enchanted Forest” baby shower, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning! Held at the wonderful Benchmark International Arena, we were honored to celebrate these courageous women—all active-duty military members or the spouses or partners of active duty or deployed members of local military bases—and share our excitement for the path ahead.
Our emcee, Emmy Award-winning journalist and ABC Action News Anchor Deiah Riley, helped the mood stay magical all afternoon! Featuring a delicious catered lunch, fun games, inspiring guest speakers, and wonderful prizes, this event made the opportunity to connect and form heartfelt memories possible for all every-bunny in attendance.
Our favorite moment, of course, was seeing all the hoppy smiles that opening Operation Shower’s signature “Shower-In-A-Box” brings! These thoughtfully curated gift boxes were filled with high-quality essentials and luxurious surprises for both mom and baby, generously donated by the Lightning, Delta Children, Frida Baby, Diaper Genie, Angelcare, Dr. Brown’s, and Emerson and Friends.
“It’s an honor to celebrate these military moms and moms-to-be who give so much in service to our country,” said Elizabeth Frazier, executive vice president of community development and social impact and executive director of the Lightning Foundation. “The Tampa Bay Lightning deeply value the military and their families, and we are proud to support them through events like this that bring joy, camaraderie and recognition for their sacrifices. It’s a meaningful way for us to show our gratitude and support for those who serve.”
Thanks to our incredible donors and the Tampa Bay Lightning’s amazing support, this unforgettable shower bloomed with new connections, community, and joy.
We were especially bewitched by these people who added an extra twinkle to the day:
Photos & DJ: Celebrations 24
Graphics by Operation Shower
Shopping Station: @emerson_and_friends
Dessert Display & Rentals: @ten23designs
Cake: @tampabaycakecompany
Cookies: @boxermombakes
Flowers: @savethedateflorida
