Taking Love and Energy to Another Level

Originally published on Couch Assassin.

Elevate {LOVE} brings two unique events to Ottawa in support of a great community organization. The two events are the brainchild of Sheri Chiprout. Originally from Ottawa, Chiprout lives in Centertown and likes to practice yoga in her spare time. She also likes to organize events that are creative and that promote a healthy lifestyle. Her latest endeavour is Elevate {LOVE}.

The gala event will take place at the Mercury Lounge on October 17. Local queen Eva Darling will be hosting and DJ Acro will be spinning beats. The event will also include burlesque and hula hoop performances, as well as tarot card readings. During the evening, attendees can contribute to the live art wall, led by Kate Durie. There is a raffle with a lot of great prizes from local businesses. Although the evening is called a gala, Chiprout says that it will be more like a fun party with lots of fun elements.

And don't forget yoga! According to Chiprout, yoga is fundamental, because “it raises good energy”. The following month, on November 24, the yoga event will take place at the Orange Art Gallery. The event will feature an acro yoga demonstration, a flow yoga session and as well as well a led mediation. Everyone in attendance will received gift bags, featuring products from Lush and other prizes that can be won.

Chiprout couldn't picture holding the gala anywhere other than Mercury Lounge. “I've been going [there] for many years; it's such a wonderful space.” She was looking for something different for the yoga event. Finally, she found the right venue. “Orange Art Gallery is such a cool, unique space. It’s perfect for this event.”

Chiprout did not want to combine the two events because they are two separate experiences. She also did not want to hold the two events too close together. “In my experience, if you plan two things in one weekend, you're risking people not wanting to do both in case you're take up their entire weekend,” explained Chiprout. “They're two different communities, so I can treat them as two separate events.” Despite being separate, both events are creative and have a connection to yoga.

The idea behind these events is to bring good energy and awareness, and raise funds for Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC). According to Chiprout, elevating love is about empowerment and bringing good energy to a cause that is deserving of attention. “This year, I was looking for a way to give back to the community in the best way that I felt that I could,” she explained. After doing research on women's causes and organizations that work to end violence against women, Chiprout discovered SASC. The centre is a feminist collective entirely run by volunteers. “SASC empowers women because it supports them by offering them choices,” said Chiprout. The centre offers various support groups and runs a 24 hour crisis line, in addition to offering other services.

Beyond the fact that it's a wonderful cause, Sheri has worked hard to bring together great performances and entertainment that are sure to please everyone. Check out Elevate {LOVE} and support an amazing community organization while having a great time.

Elevate {LOVE} Gala
@ Mercury Lounge
Thursday, October 17, 2013
$30 advance $40 at the door

Elevate {LOVE} Yoga
@ Orange Art Gallery
Sunday, November 24, 2013
$25 advance $30 at the door