PROJECT:U HOSTS BENEFIT FOR COMMUNITY SOLUTIONS FUND >>>

Everyone's had this fear - and, unfortunately, the worst has happened to you. You'd prepared all week for your first wedding party pictures: manicure, professional shave, accessory consultations, shoe-and-eyewear pep talks. Now it was time for the main event. You touched up your hair on your way out the door and thought to yourself, "Tonight, I will be photographed by professional photographer "linh b" at Brenda and Jeff's wedding, and I will look good." Then, off to the wedding you went. When you arrived, you were photographed not once, but several times, and you could hardly wait to check out your candid shots online. But shockingly, when you finally saw the pics, you discovered that ... you have a bad side! Who knew?! You need damage control, and fast!

Put your best face forward and head to the only place where you are guaranteed to be photographed again by linh b as she will be snapping shots at The Get Involved Gala (The GIG) Saturday, Nov. 5 at the Tacoma Art Museum. This inaugural large-scale fundraising event by Project: U - the community service program of the United Way of Pierce County geared to 20- and 30-somethings - encourages you to wear the ever-popular cocktail attire but asks to "not be afraid to bring out your penguin suits." You can do that!

And just to be sure you're noticed, showcase your stunning self on the dance floor in front of DJ Doug from Mood Makers. Also, smile as you bid on such items as the Sports Package (round of golf for four at Twin Lakes, Seattle Storm tickets, Edgeworks Climbing pass, Seattle Sounders hat signed by Erik Friberg), Date Package (Throwing Mud Gallery art class, C.I. Shenanigans VIP dining card, overnight at the Hotel Murano), Cabo San Lucas vacation, restaurants gift cards, spa packages, fitness sessions and much more.

The manicure will pay off as you tote your swag bag stuffed with goods from sponsors, as well as when you hold that raffle ticket high as they announce you won a yoga session or dinner for two at Indochine.

Be sure you nibble on delectable appetizers and desserts, including treats from Tacoma's hello cupcake. Notice we said, "nibble" - you don't want the cameras catching you with your mouth full! (Or after a few too many trips to The Mix's table for its "signature drink" or Cork Wine Bar's pours; trust us, drunk doesn't usually make for pretty pictures.)

But most important, you'll stand tall and proud knowing your $35 ticket goes to support people in the community who need it most. All proceeds from the night will go to the United Way's Community Solutions Fund, which supports more than a 100 charitable programs in the Pierce County area.

To purchase tickets for this evening of extravagance, happening from 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, visit getinvolvedgala.org or email getinvolvedgala@gmail.com. Tickets only cost $35, but your photographic reputation - and Project: U's community service program - are definitely worth it.

LINK: Project: U's awesomeness

LINK: United Way's Community Solutions Fund