Wine and Design is a popular business that began in Raleigh, NC in April 2010. The studio offers clients an easy and fun approach to painting and provides participants all they need for a fun night out: canvas, smock, paints, paintbrushes, and corkscrew. Attendees provide a beverage of his or her choosing and sit down for a two-hour painting session led by a local artist. Wine and Design Raleigh co-owner, Harriet Mills, said that she's excited about partnering with other franchise owners to help raise money for this cause.

"It's hard to find someone who hasn't been affected, either directly or indirectly, by cancer," said Mills. "Our studio is proud to be a part of this national event, and we encourage anyone who wants to make a positive difference in the fight against breast cancer to sign up and take part. Not only will you be supporting a vital cause, but you'll also be doing something great for yourself."

According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight women (or 12%) of women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. It is the most common cancer among American women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. However, after increasing for more than two decades, female breast cancer incidence rates began decreasing in 2000, then dropped by about 7% from 2002 to 2003. Death rates from breast cancer have been declining since about 1989, with larger decreases in women younger than 50. These decreases are believed to be the result of earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, as well as improved treatment. Wine and Design co-owner, Emmy Preiss, said that these decreases are encouraging and reinforce the need for widespread education.

"Early detection of breast cancer saves thousands of lives each year," said Preiss. "Wine and Design Raleigh is proud to be a part of helping raise the importance of self exams and screens that will hopefully result in raising the number of breast cancer survivors."

Cost for the Paint It Forward Breast Cancer Fundraiser is $80 for an individual ticket or $350 for a table of five. Mills hopes to sell at least 15 tables. One-hundred percent of the night's proceeds will go directly to Susan G. Komen. To register, visit http://www.wineanddesignus.com/location/raleigh-nc/home or call (919) 374-0667.

About Wine and Design Wine and Design provides "memories and a masterpiece" in just two hours. Painting sessions are led by a local artist who provides step-by-step instructions to first-time painters, aspiring artists, or self-proclaimed pro's that result in an individualized work of art. Wine and Design accepts general reservations, but also books private parties. Bridal showers, baby showers, corporate team building, Design on Wheels, and girls' night out are just a few of their offerings, as well as a selection of events just for kids. The company also hosts fundraisers, with a portion of the proceeds going directly to the cause. For more information, call (919) 374-0667 or visit http://www.wineanddesignus.com/location/raleigh-nc/home.