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“Unbelievable deal” is how Lewis, organizer of the event, described the ticket price.
But for Lewis, and the other volunteers, the event is more than a bargain: It gives the ladies an opportunity to be inspired by sharing their stories with other women.
“A chance to pour into these women,” said Lewis, part of Kingswell Ministry in Middletown.
Once an evening designated for single mothers, Ladies Night Out now attracts a more diverse crowd, Lewis said. This year’s 200 attendees include teenagers, graduates from Hope House, a homeless shelter, women “off the streets,” social workers and what Lewis called “one of the wealthiest (women) in the city.”
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Mica Glaser Jones, owner of the Windamere, said Ladies Night Out is unique but in reality all the women are the same.
“We talk about our jobs, our kids and our relationships.” she said with a smile.
Lewis said about 100 volunteers, mostly men dressed in shirts and ties, will serve meals to the guests. Each of the 26 tables has a leader, a representative from a local church.
Another goal of the event is for the women to grow their relationship with God, Lewis said. The women are encouraged to meet in small groups throughout the year, either once a week or every two weeks. Attendees are then urged to volunteer the next year.
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Local business and individuals donated 400 formal dresses, and last weekend, 100 women were fitted for a dress. This weekend, the other 100 women will select their dresses and be fitted. Of the first 100, all but six have found a dress, Lewis said. She said more dresses, sizes 16 to 26, are needed.
Lewis said four seamstress are available to alter the dresses.
The women are searching for the “perfect dress,” she said.
This truly is a community effort, Lewis said. Memories Bridal and Prom on Cincinnati-Dayton Road donated many dresses, Windamere is hosting the event, Mockingbirds Cafe is catering, Kathryn’s Home Assets is proving the gift bags and four photographers have donated their services.
The first year the event was held at The Gathering and drew 32 women, then 87 women in 2014. The last three years, it has been held at the Windamere and each has sold out. This year 200 tickets were sold in 15 minutes, Lewis said.
HOW TO DONATE
WHAT: Ladies Night Out
WHEN: 7 to 10 p.m. Jan. 27
WHERE: Windamere Event Center, 2 S. Main St., Middletown
CONTACT: Jeri Lewis at 513-649-9699 or JLewis@kingswell.us
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