Capturing Dreams: The Toledo Cotillion Story
2012 Debutante Aleshia Furr dancing with father, Albert Miller
Ambershaun Byrd and Aleshia Furr
Aleshia Furr winning Miss Debutante, 2012
Where Defining Moments Become Memories, Dreams Take Flight
A Tradition 56+ Years Strong
Imagine a single moment that changes everything. For me, that moment happened in 2012 during the Toledo Cotillion – the night my little sister stepped onto the stage, radiant and poised, and was crowned Miss Debutante.
With my first professional camera in hand that I bought for this occasion, I captured more than just photographs. I captured a forever memory for her, and started a thriving business that still supports me today.
D9: The Heart of Our Community
The Toledo Cotillion isn’t just an event. It’s a rite of passage. A bridge between generations. A celebration of:
- Young Black excellence
- Cultural heritage
- Personal growth
- Community support
For over five decades, this event has been nurturing our community’s most precious resource: our youth. And many of these youth join D9 organizations!
The Challenge: Preserving Our Story
Despite years of transformative moments, due to costs the NANBPWC never had a consistent way/budget to professionally document these life-changing experiences. Until now.
Our Mission:
We’re seeking to raise **$500** to:
- Hire a professional photographer at the sponsorship rate
- Present a half-page ad sponsored by Toledo D9 to congratulate the participants
- Provide free professional images to all participants
- Preserve the legacy of the Toledo Cotillion
Your Impact
**$15** can help:
- Capture a young person’s moment of triumph
- Create lasting memories for families
- Support a 40-year community tradition
How to Make a Difference
Donate Now:
- CashApp: $ABYRDSEYEPHOTO
- https://cash.app/$AByrdseyephoto
- Caption: D9
- Optional: Include your organization name for tracking (ex. D9 Alpha)
Ambershaun’s Personal Promise
After the May 27, 2025 event, I will:
- Create a professional ad for the Cotillion booklet
- Share a complete photo gallery via the Abyrdseyephoto Seniors FB page and the D9 GroupMe
- Ensure every participant receives their professional images
More Than a Donation. A Legacy.
When you contribute, you’re not just supporting an event. You are investing in futures. You’re honoring traditions. You’re telling our young people: “We see you. We believe in you.”
Together, we can capture the magic of another generation’s dreams.
Ambershaun Byrd
29-Year Delta Sigma Theta Member
Toledo Cotillion Photographer
https://www.thetruthtoledo.com/pdf/2012/053012pdf.pdf
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