In its second year, Arcola's Ultimate Extravaganza has already increased its reach and its success, judging by vendor and customer attendance alone.
The event, which was first held in 2013, began as a bridal fair and a trade show. Since then, it has quickly grown into a shopping event that caters to all women, giving them a chance to indulge in some retail therapy, to get a first look at emerging entrepeneurs and to connect with established businesses in a casual, fun way.
Event designer Roxann Waelchli of RW Events Design in Arcola said, "I'm happy that I came. I do all kinds of functions and I am interested in doing everything from complete Christmas parties to tablescapes for private homes. Coming here gives me the opportunity to connect with potential clients and to demonstrate what I can do for them."
Carlyle realtor and event attendee Ray Boutin agrees. "I give accolades to anybody who takes the initiative to invite vendors and clients and to help them to connect. It's a great community event and it's excellent exposure. Events like this one are an excellent way to meet the local folk and get the word out. As a realtor, this is a great spot to be."
Event founder Tammy Workman of Arcola says that she is "adamant about shopping locally. I don't get why people go to the city when we have so many great businesses and vendors here."
"It's absolutely fabulous," said attendee Jacqui Trippel of Carlyle. "It's a great event. We can enjoy a wonderful lunch and shopping and entertainment in one of our own communities. It's a fun girl's day out."
The Ultimate Ladies Extravaganza hosted nearly 60 vendors and hundreds of visitors from throughout Saskatchewan and elsewhere. The day-long event also featured entertainment that included a harpist, a belly-dance troupe and a fashion show that featured over 100 ensembles supplied by King's Department Store, Flirts Formal Fashion and Bella Babe. A cocktail bar and a five-star luncheon created by Cheryl Bell of Chapmans Grocery in Arcola was available throughout the day.
Profits from the event will be combined with profits from a New Year's event Workman is planning and funds will be distributed to local causes. "This time, we'd like organizations that are seeking help to apply for funding. They can do this by sending their request to: Tammy Workman, Box 157, Arcola, Sask. S0C 0G0. We've already booked a room at the Arcola Legion on Jan. 6, so the public can have a voice in where these funds go."
Workman says, "This is a fantastic place for businesses and women to get together, socializing and networking and hopefully, having a great day out. It's good for business and we are already getting a lot of positive feedback."
