Sara Middleton, Eagle Grove Chamber executive director, says Saturday, April 24 will be “An experience you can’t get any other day” in our community. Why? Because it’s Ladies Day Out, a new twist on an old event formerly known as Ladies Night Out.
“I wanted to create a whole new experience that is not only fun for a lot of different kinds of people, but also beneficial for a lot of different types of Eagle Grove businesses,” said Middleton about the reason for the change.
COVID was one of the driving factors behind the change in an attempt to allow lots of women to participate without being in close quarters, but she also wanted to reach more women who may have in the past felt like they weren’t meant to be at the event.
“I felt like those attending (Ladies Night Out) were just the women that were employed by Chamber member businesses…and I want ALL women to know they are invited,” explained Middleton.
The event will take place from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., and start and the Chamber of Commerce office located at 212 W. Broadway in Eagle Grove. If you are one of the first 100 women to register, you will receive your “swag bag” and all the information you need for the day’s events. The swag bag itself is worth the cost of participation. It’s a great canvas bag designed by local boutique owner Tiara Paul that says “Ope! Sorry.” Inside are lots of goodies including a plastic cup with lid and straw with a fun saying printed on it, a raffle ticket (you can purchase extra at the Chamber the day of) admission to the two vendor/craft shows located at the VFW and Memorial Hall, coupons good for that day only to local participating businesses, and more.
“You get a lot for little money,” said Middleton.
Businesses will also have drinks and snacks for the ladies to enjoy while visiting their stores…and don’t forget to ask them to punch your passport card that could win you $50 in Chamber Bucks. While you’re inside those businesses, you’ll also find extra one-day-only shopping options as there will be several “Pop-Up” shops with home business owners offering their products as well.
While you’re strolling from store-to-store, you’ll also enjoy some music on the streets courtesy of Arden Scott Collectibles.
For those of you who feel like you’re just “paying to shop,” Middleton says that’s not the case at all. You’re paying for an exclusive design swag bag filled with lots of goodies, admission to the 30+ craft/vendor fair, exclusive coupons, free food and drink, Pop-Up shops…and a day-experience you and your gal pals are sure to enjoy…and it’s COVID-friendly.
“You get to be with your group of people, but still run into other people you know as you shop,” said Middleton about one of the benefits of this new event rather than sitting at a table all night with people you already see and know.
While you’re out and about, be sure to stop and take a few selfies at the Selfie Booth at Gazebo Park. Mollie McGrath will be there to give you instructions of how your photo just might win you $100 in Chamber Bucks.
“We’ve all had a rough 2020. If we can create a fun experience where people laugh and have fun and can enjoy our community, then we think we’re doing a good job,” said Middleton. “We want everyone to feel invited and welcomed to attend this event…even if they’re from out-of-town. This event is for any and all women.”
