Moustache-themed photo shoot to raise funds for Simon

A photography shoot which celebrates moustaches in all their forms will take place at Athlone Towncentre this weekend to raise money for the Simon Community. The 'Movember' trend often sees people grow moustaches for charity at this time of year, and on Saturday local resident Emilia Krysztofiak, of Rua Photography, will be taking professional portraits and providing 7 by 5-inch prints for a €10 donation. The event is billed as 'stache for Simon', with all profits going to the Midlands Simon Community. Emilia explained that the fundraiser is not limited to people with real moustaches, as moustache props would be available for people to use on the day. She was hoping to photograph people of all ages, "and who knows, maybe we will choose a king or queen of the moustache!" This is the first time the event has taken place. Explaining the background to it, Emilia said: "I was planning a charity event for a while now to give back something to the community. "When I was talking with Jennifer McGuire from Athlone Towncentre, who are kindly providing the space for the event, she suggested that I stay local when choosing the charity. I have collaborated with Simon Midlands Community before so the choice was easy." She added: "It will be one-person portraits only. From newborns with moustaches to the real moustache-y men, with lots of good-hearted people with a sense of humour in between! If there are creative souls out there, they can bring their own moustache prop." The event takes place in the Athlone Towncentre, in a shop unit near the reception area, from 2-6pm this Saturday.