Event draws crowd to downtown businesses

The 2013 Girl’s Day Out was a big day for both the merchants and women who participated.

Groups enjoyed talking and laughing as they walked from store to store taking advantage of the coupons in the goody bags from merchants throughout downtown Sidney. A shuttle also carried passengers to and from Cabela’s for events held at the retail center.

Merchants welcomed the crowds happily into their stores; some offered treats and samples and let people register for giveaways.

The day out not only allowed shoppers to take advantage of deep discounts in local businesses, but it also had a positive financial impact on local merchant’s sales by bringing people in the door.

An employee at Finney’s Ace Hardware reported that they “were extremely busy” during the event. Eileen Thompson at A Head of Time Salon noted the same boost, pointing out that more than 100 people moved through the shop during the day. She added that there were many new faces from other areas, not just Sidney.

Jolene Deer echoed Thompson’s thoughts. “It was a real success. People were thanking us for being open and being a part of it. I wanted to thank them so much for coming,” Deer said.

Deer added that it was standing room only; people were lined up down the sidewalk waiting to get in. Even though there were big lines and tight spaces, she heard no negative comments.

“Everyone was so nice, it was pleasant; there were people everywhere. It was not like holiday shopping. People were happy and enjoying it.” Deer said that the nice weather helped also.

Larry Fraas, owner of Larry’s Clothing, said that “It was a great day. We had a lot of fun. The day started early; people came in to check out what they wanted and then they came back with their coupons.” He said there were easily a couple of hundred people who came through the doors on Saturday.

According to Kathy Assad of Accents Home and Yard Décor, it was “a very good day. Lots of fun. We were exhausted. It was good.” She explained that she saw “lots of people I hadn’t seen for awhile.”

Eleanor Plummer from Imagine That said that it was an “extra busy day; lots of socializing and shopping. Everyone seemed to be in a good mood.” She went on to say that many ladies brought their daughters, some brought their mothers and everyone was enjoying the weather.

Plummer added, “It was a good day for us and the entire downtown. And I’m sure Cabela’s was busy too.”

Dozens of women also enjoyed their choice between one of two films that were special presentations at the Fox Theater. The film tickets were included in the $2 registration fee for the goody bags in addition to a coupon for $2 soda and popcorn.

Another big ladies’ day out is planned for fall; Diva Day will be held on October 19.