Attendees and dignitaries at the launch of the South Texas Women’s Business Center enjoyed lunch with the mayor, speeches by leading businesswomen and – since the fledgling organization was also raising funds – an exciting raffle marketed by businesswoman dressed in elegant jeans from Thailand.

The jeans, bearing elaborate Thai appliqués, tapestry and lacework, were supplied by Sassy Thai, a woman-owned San Antonio company dedicated to creating good jobs and fair wages for handcraft artisans working in Thai villages.

Founded in 2004 by Titima Schwaerzel, a Thai native, Sassy Thai has rocketed to success, placing orders in upscale boutiques throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Europe and South Africa. The company also donated a $300 jean-and-jacket outfit for a raffle prize. Several attendees expressed admiration for the denim ensembles. Sassy Thai marketers provided 10% coupons valid at Silver Spur, a locally owned retailer located near the Menger Hotel – Downtown San Antonio.

Adina Lyssy, Sassy Thai’s sales and marketing coordinator, worked with three other businesswoman volunteers, all wearing Sassy Thai outfits.

In addition to denim, Sassy Thai offers crocheted tops, dresses, jewelry, sandals and accessories. The company plans a new line of ultra-elegant dresses and some exciting new designs – all featuring Thai art – for Fall 2007.

The South Texas Women’s Business Center is an outreach of the City of San Antonio through its South Texas Business Fund, the nonprofit lending arm of the City of San Antonio’s Economic Development Department. Funded is part though a Cooperative Agreement with U.S. Small Business Administration. The mission of the South Texas Women’s Business Center is to provide the technical support and financial guidance and resources to women who want to start a business or expand an established business.

Website www.stwbc.com