Maddens on Gull Lake set the stage for a marvelous 18th Century-inspired masquerade Saturday. More than 300 people attended the "Afternoon in Venice" event to support the Brainerd Lakes Area Women's Fund.

The event included elaborate costumes, as well as street vendors, palm readers, wine tasting, an Italian dessert buffet, and a program depicting the history of the life and times of Venice.

The Women's Fund honored Sue Hadland with the community's first Women Making Waves Award for her commitment to serving women and girls.

Rosemary Goff of Lake Shore, Minn., will get to experience modern Venice. She won a trip for two to Venice, Italy, sponsored by the Women’s Fund, Traveler’s Fare, and Funjet Vacations.

Proceeds from the event will support the Women's Fund and will be used to fund programs that empower and educate women and girls throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area, including the Presenting Yourself educational series. Learn more about the Brainerd Lakes Area Women's Fund.