Want to get a jump start on your holiday shopping? Looking for something fun to do this weekend?
You’re in luck.
Sponsored in part by the Windham Economic Development Corporation/Windham Marketplace, a “Gals and Pals” shopping weekend is scheduled for Dec. 5 and 6 that invites women and their friends – which also includes men – to Windham, to check out the variety of businesses.
Several local businesses plan to participate in the event, including Windham Jewelers, Sedona Wellness, The Microtel, Sebago Lake Auto, the Mancave Hair Lounge, Heaven and Earth Day Spa, Dena’s Lobster House and Tavern, and Paws and Clawz. On Saturday and Sunday each location will offer specials, discounts and other incentives for their customers.
Other businesses such as Crickets Corner in Raymond, Country Sleigh in Naples, and the Umbrella Factory Outlet in Naples, are also taking part in the event. The Umbrella Factory is offering a beer tasting, from 12:30-3:30 p.m., and a wine tasting, from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday.
According to Tom Bartell, Windham’s economic development director, the campaign was created recently to attract people to the town’s business district, including those living outside of Windham, for a fun, holiday shopping trip with a shop-local focus.
“It’s just another opportunity to market the area and the Windham businesses, and get people out,” Bartell said. “It’s a reason to shop and have some fun, and maybe go to a place you haven’t been. It allows the businesses to advertise and show off a little bit.”
And, “it allows customers to take advantage of whatever specials they might find,” Bartell added.
Amy Thorne, general manager of The Microtel Inn & Suites, located on Route 302, said the hotel will be giving Gals and Pals participants a chance to swim in the pool or stay in any of the rooms for a 15 percent discount.
“We definitely like to work with the community and see the community grow,” said Thorne.
Thorne said she’s looking forward to the event because it will likely attract more people to the hotel – which opened in March – to tour the property or stay the weekend.
“A lot of people don’t even know we’re there,” Thorne said.
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