Apr 8, 2002/ FW/ --- It was a Mexican fiesta backstage at Mark Montano's show held in New York last February 10.

Food and drinks, and friends laughing with friends.

Of course, everyone was also busy doing their part for the show - make-up artists, hairdressers, stylists and dressers.

But the atmosphere was friendly and not harried.

I guess its because Mark has "mainstay catwalkers," models whom the designer get almost every season.

There's friendship and history there already.

And of course, there are always the new faces. So it was all about meeting old friends and making new ones.

This season, there was a brand new group added - the male Mexican dancers who performed during the "Winter In Mexico" runway show.

And there were the security guards - big muscles and all, who were there guarding the jewelry which were used in the show. Retail price of the jewelry used was over $2 million.

They wanted to remain anonymous - part of the job for them, so we did not take their photos.

They were a little aloof, but not cold. It's part of their job description - no fraternization.

Which is understable of course. Security is a lonely job.

Everyone wore a smile, including the models.

Of course, seeing a model smile is no longer a rarity.

But this time, they mean it. They really look like they are enjoying the company.

Even the session with the make-up artist and the hairdresser were not chores. It was as if they were at their regular beauty salons.

In between the make-up, the hairdresser and actually getting dressed, the models found time to read or to chat with each other.

It was a scene from a real Mexican fiesta where you meet your amigos and amigas.

Mark Montano Fall 2002

Mark Montano Fall 2002

Mark Montano Fall 2002