QotM – Mary Ann Torrez – July 2024
Published
Mary Ann Torrez, better known as Queen of 100 Chapeaux, was born and raised in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, CA, and grew up in Wilmington, CA. She has led a life filled with love, dedication, and a flair for creativity. With a background in business from her college days, Mary Ann has always been driven by passion and a commitment to excellence.
A Love Story for the Ages
Mary Ann's love story is nothing short of a fairytale. She met her husband in October at a friend's wedding, and it was love at first sight. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage just five months later, in February. As they approach their 59th wedding anniversary in February 2025, their enduring love and partnership continue to inspire.
Wackiest Job and Career Path
One of Mary Ann’s most memorable jobs was working at See's Candy during the summer. The perk of taking home imperfect candies at the end of each shift was a sweet bonus. Professionally, she thrived as an Escrow Manager, a role that undoubtedly benefited from her business acumen and meticulous nature.
Hobbies and Interests
Art, crafting, and planning themed events are among Mary Ann’s favorite pastimes. Her creative spirit and organizational skills shine through in everything she does, making her a beloved figure in her community and among her peers.
Joining the Red Hat Society
Mary Ann’s journey with the Red Hat Society (RHS) began quite by accident in June 2005. While attending a Christian luncheon at the Sheraton Hotel in Pomona, she noticed a group of women dressed in their vibrant Red Hat regalia, having an absolute blast. Intrigued, she sought information and quickly decided to join. By August 2005, she was a proud member of this wonderful club. Describing her initial feeling as "excited," Mary Ann embraced her new role with enthusiasm.
The Joys of Being a Queen
For Mary Ann, the best part of being the Queen of the Fabulous Uptown Girls with Hattitude chapter of Upland, CA USA, is developing friendships, gathering people together, and planning outings. She finds joy in the camaraderie and the shared experiences that come with being a part of the RHS.
Words of Wisdom and Memorable Moments
Mary Ann’s philosophy is simple yet profound: "If it's one or two members gathering, it's a perfect time for a one-on-one to get to know each other better." She values the opportunity for deeper connections and cherishes every moment spent with fellow members.
Her most memorable RHS event was attending her first convention at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA USA. Overwhelmed by the sheer number of RHS members, she felt a wonderful sense of belonging and had the privilege of meeting our Founder Exalted Queen Mother Sue Ellen Cooper.
Encouraging Active Participation
Mary Ann believes in staying active and encourages her members to do the same. She keeps them informed about all events on the RHS calendar and promotes a lifestyle of health and happiness. Her advice is to enjoy every day, participate as much as health permits, eat healthy foods, and most importantly, to dance and have fun.
Engagement and Online Presence
Mary Ann appreciates the value of online engagement, recognizing it as a vital resource that keeps members informed and connected. She stays on top of current topics and enjoys the dynamic interaction within the online RHS community.
Final Thoughts
Queen of 100 Chapeaux, Mary Ann Torrez, exemplifies the spirit of the Red Hat Society. Her life, filled with love, creativity, and a dedication to community, serves as an inspiration to all. As we celebrate her as our July Queen of the Month, we are reminded of the joy and fulfillment that comes from embracing life with enthusiasm and a generous heart.