CeCe Winans’ Always Sisters Girls Conference 2007 Wrap Up

For the 2nd year, The Curb Center served as the host for the Always Sisters Conference. The first year, visionary and founder CeCe Winans, decided it was time to bring her long-time dream to life, and kicked things off at the Sheraton Music City in Nashville. Although she and her team only had a few months to pull everything together they still had over 700 registrants to turn out. Needless to say, it was obvious they would need a larger facility. In 2006 Belmont University opened its' doors to the Curb Center and became the home of Always Sisters ; that year over 2500 girls poured into the venue. This year that mark was surpassed with an overwhelming 4,000 plus registrants filling the seats. Plans are already underway to open blocked seats next year and take things into ' the round ', to accommodate more girls.

The seats were almost filled to its available capacity this year. You could feel the anticipation in the air as the girls walked through the door. Some were coming for the third time and for others, their first, but you could sense they were all coming with expectation. The theme this year was A Praying Princess and crowning the girls with tiaras took a twist, they were handed out before being seated. There were far too many girls to crown, individually, so each girl was ask to crown each other as a reminder of their sisterhood and support for one another. Pastor Horace Hockett of Born Again Church opened the conference with a covering of prayer. Leanne Palmore and her worship team set the tone for the start of each session. There were then special words of encouragement by Delores Burnett from the American Bible Society reminding the girls of their greatness and operating in power. The gifted Chenaniah Dancers from Florida had everyone on their feet, the five sisters were a big hit last year and enjoyed the conference so much they asked to come back .

The annual fashion show coordinated by Chandra Jamison has become a staple for the girls, highlighting stylish and tastefully designed daytime and evening wear that’s suitable for teens and young ladies. This year's garments were sponsored by Wet Seal, Charlotte Russe, BeBe, Betsy Johnson,Cache and others. Industry professionals, Kenny Vereen and Ony Powers the glam squad for CeCe, donated their time to ensure the models were prepped. The conference welcomed back Apostle Kim Daniels, Donnie McClurkin, Irishea Lewis and Kiki Sheard to do what they do best, minister to the heart of the youth. First time conference speakers:Tamara Bennett, Nancy Alcorn ,Jentezen Franklin and Samantha Coleman added their words of wisdom that will be forever etched in the memory of those attended. The annual private luncheon for Mothers of Teens was hosted by Mom Winans and Sister Kitty Hockett was well received, with a private dinner for 80 Teen Mothers, hosted by Demetrus Stewart added to the schedule of activities. The two day event once again culminated with a big concert featuring CeCe and Family & Friends: Marvin Winans, Donnie McClurkin, Joann Rosario, American Idol finalist, Mandisa and Da' T.R.U.T.H. The finale added a special touch when Whitney Houston and all the performers for the evening, joined Donnie and Cece on stage to send everyone off on a high note. The girls were also treated to a special performance by Trinitee 5:7 on Friday night.