Big Daddy, The Wedding Singer, Happy Gilmore.
Who comes to mind? Adam Sandler, of course.
However, students at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School are adding another association to the list: the Precious Moments Boutique.
Every year, the fashion class at St. Mary begins with the unit, “Fashion and Self-Esteem,” where students explore self-esteem through fashion, body positivity and body image.
As part of this unit, students are tasked with designing a school-wide themed event that connects fashion with a charitable cause. This year, students brought their creativity to life by organizing “Adam Sandler Day” in support of the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board’s in-house boutique.
Located inside the St. Mary Catholic Education Resource Centre, the Precious Moments Boutique is a donation centre where students can pick from an assortment of new and gently experienced First Holy Communion and Graduation wear, free of charge.
But where’s the connection with Sandler?
Beyond his character roles, Sandler is famously known for his unapologetically casual style. Students and staff were invited to embrace the laid-back, signature style of Adam Sandler by wearing comfortable, casual and oversized clothing.
“We chose this charity to support our day because the contrast of elegant clothing while attending school dressed in the total polar opposite is a funny twist of irony that we think students will find endearing and memorable,” said students.
The school community collected donations for the Precious Moments Boutique, including formal wear and First Communion outfits. Additional activities included a bake sale, movie screening, and a school-wide scavenger hunt. Classes that donated at least three outfits were also recognized with snack rewards.
“It was all student-driven,” said Teacher Kathryn Newberry. “I wanted it to be their own creation, their own idea, their own collaboration.”
The event aimed to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment while strengthening connections among students. Its goals included helping students feel comfortable and at home within the school, and building a sense of community, friendship, and belonging.
Following the event, student organizers, which included: Gianina Augustus, Charlotte Cull, Charlotte Cupido, Leilah Headley, Hailey Jansen, Rory Washburn, Emma Lonergan, and Millie O'Neill took a field trip to the boutique where they helped organize donations.
“Our hearts were filled with gratitude watching the students work hard to set up and sort the space with intention,” said School Social Worker and Precious Moments Boutique Lead Kelly Duff-Kariam, who praised the students’ efforts.
“There is nothing more meaningful than young people serving others, and this was all completed behind the scenes with no fanfare, just heart. Mother Teresa said beautifully, ‘faith is action in love, and love in action is service.’”
Beyond the Board, the boutique relies heavily on the generosity of the wider community. Donations from organizations such as the Good Shepherd, Coach, Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe, La Rondine Occasions, and the Diocese of Hamilton, along with contributions from local families, help ensure that students have access to high-quality attire for milestone events.
This ongoing support is essential to maintaining the boutique’s ability to serve students with dignity and care.
Click here to learn more about the Precious Moments Boutique.
Photos by St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Co-op Student Porshalynn Lawrence.
