Masqueraders of the Upstate converged on the Bleu Voodoo Grill in Easley for the fourth annual Masquerade for MARYS House.

EASLEY — On Oct. 6, masqueraders of the Upstate converged on the Bleu Voodoo Grill to attend the fourth annual Masquerade for MARYS House, with one goal in mind, to raise money to support MARYS House.

MARYS House began as a dream, and in 2008 it opened the doors of a shelter for victims of domestic abuse. The shelter was unique in the fact that it contained what are considered family suites. The suites allowed mothers and children to stay together, giving them time to allow for healing. MARYS House is a faith based, non-denominational, nonprofit organization, which runs off of grants and donations.

This year’s event had close to 130 people in attendance.

Major contributors before the event were Bleu Voodoo Grill, Wingard Jewelers, Albertson Enterprises, Something Special, Cowan Farms, Easley Police Department, Whites Appliance, Lowes, Powdersville Insurance, Synnex, That’s Karma, Dunburks, Stockade Antiques, Marion Davis, Service Master, Niles Artistic Photography, Uncle Sams Antiques and Ace Auto Parts, just to name a few.

The night began on the porch, with hors d’oeuvres and entertainment by Malcolm Tempt. Tempt serenaded the guests as they were looking over silent auction items. Professional photographs were taken by Niles Artistic Photography.

The events then moved upstairs to the sights and sounds of Twos Enough. Dinner was served as the program began. Everyone listened as speakers told about the organization, and a special lady gave her testimony about how she came to live in MARYS house. After her testimony, patrons were reminded of the last call on the silent auction, and the upcoming cake auction.

Prizes were given for best mask, best overall outfit and best group mask participation

The cake auction began the first year of the Masquerade fundraiser, and has been a staple of the event every year. What has become to be known as “Momma’s Cakes” is a crowd pleaser.

Before the cake auction began, the emcee offered a challenge. If proceeds going to MARYS House reached $4,000, the emcee would wear a jester’s hat the following year. If the proceeds exceed $5,000, he would wear the full jester’s outfit.

After the cake auction, the live auction and proceeds from the ticket sales were tallied up, the event raised more than $6,000 for MARYS house.

Organizers gave special thanks to Safeco, Servpro, 20/20 auto glass the Bleu Voodoo Grill, Bleu Voodoo Friends and Krewe.

The biggest thanks went to everyone who attended and shared their time and donations to help families in need The event is scheduled for the first Tuesday of October 2016 for the fifth annual Masquerade for MARYS House.