On June 21, 7x7 and Wells Fargo hosted the “Empower U” Pride Party at 111 Minna Gallery to raise attention for the nationwide anti-bullying program Make it Better Project (locally overseen by the Gay-Straight Alliance Network), whose goal is to increase gay teens’ self esteem and confidence.

Local writer and author of the popular new book Queer: The Ultimate LGBT Guide for Teens, Marke Bieschke, chatted about his project and included signed copies in the Wells Fargo gift bags that were used for a fun raffle benefiting Make It Better.Guests delighted in tasty bites courtesy of Small Potatoes Catering, got their boogie on to the tunes of DJ Dylan Mahoney, and enjoyed cocktails made with No. 209 gin, and ice cold Stella Artois and Hoegaarden beers—all while supporting a great cause.

Photos: Kira Stackhouse | Nuena Photography