Event features shopping, manicures, massages

By Sara E. Martin, Army Flier Staff WriterMay 24, 2013

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FORT RUCKER, Ala. (May 23, 2013) -- The Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation invites women to enjoy Month of the Military Spouse with some relaxation and girl time.

Women can find a babysitter or leave the children with the hubby for a night to enjoy a first-of-its-kind event here on Fort Rucker, which features shopping, browsing, entertainment and, above all else, relaxation, said Leigh Ann Dukes, DFMWR sponsorship and advertising sales manager.

"Pamper Yourself is a spouse-only event that provides women the chance to meet business owners and employees in a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere that is devoted strictly to them," said Dukes. "They can browse booths, shop, learn current trends, get an update on women's health issues, meet with friends and just have a good time."

Pamper Yourself is scheduled for May 31 from 6-9 p.m. at The Landing ballroom. The event is open to military spouses - ages 18 and older with tickets currently on sale at The Landing in the Five Star Catering office.

"You get so much," Dukes said of the event. "You get the opportunity to meet new friends, to shop and window shop, to see a fashion show, to get massages and information pertinent to women and even a free drink."

Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door the night of the event if they are not sold out earlier. Only 200 tickets are available. Ticket price includes entrance, one adult beverage or fountain drink and a customized beverage glass.

"We wanted to devote an event entirely to military spouses, and we wanted it to have a relaxing [vibe]," said Brian Jackson, DFMWR program manager. "Every spouse has the chance to either get a manicure or a massage. They have to choose; when they arrive they will register for either one."

All 200 spouses will get a complimentary beverage glass that says 'Pamper Yourself' on it and the manicure will be a 10-12 minute manicure, something like a buff and polish, Jackson added.

About 25 vendors that cater to women will be present at the event and each will provide door prizes to attendees. Vendors that will be in attendance include salons, retail stores, spas and boutiques.

"We will have Mary Kay, Merle Norman, The Pink Poodle, Spa in the City, Jennifer's Nails, Nicole Allen Salon, 2 Girls and a Spa, Message Envy, Lingerie Boutique and Pure Imagination to name a few," said Dukes.

Adding to the experience is a fashion show that will be held at 7:30 p.m.

"Maggie B's Bouchique will have a 25-minute fashion show featuring summer styles for women," said Dukes.

Spouses who have busy or stressful lives are encouraged to take a break and take a night for themselves.

"It's a good way for women to get away from work and the stress of the week," said Jackson. "This is a good event to recognize our military spouses and show them why they are so important to our community."

There will be a cash bar as well as a photo booth at the event. People will be able to view them on DFMWR's Facebook.

The 98th Army Silver Wings Band will have a jazz quartet playing throughout the night to help create a "wonderful" atmosphere for attendees.

"Often spouses play the role of mom and dad, and they have to make so many decisions on their own because sometimes they can't talk to their spouse," said Jackson. "It can be hard and stressful to have that on someone's shoulders."

This event is special because who it is honoring, he continued, adding that Fort Rucker officials want to show spouses how much they mean to the community.

"This is the first time we have held something of this caliber and nature for only spouses, but I have a feeling it is going to turn into an annual event," said Dukes.

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