Women find pampering, self-protection at expo

The eighth annual Women’s Expo at Memorial Coliseum on Saturday had all the features you might expect.

Around the Expo Center were the photography vendors, the cosmetic products and the hourly giveaways. A lingering cloud of romantic scents wafted from the homemade soaps.

But, then you could hear the fierce crackle of a stun baton that was the same shade as pink bubble gum.

Jenn Longcore, an independent business pro for the self-protection company Damsel in Defense, said she tries to get as many people to actually pick up the stun gun, and get the initial shock of the noise out of the way.

“It’s good to bring awareness to women, because a lot of times you get into a comfort zone that nothing can ever happen to you,” she said.

In the broader scheme of things, the Women’s Expo tries to bring awareness to all aspects of a woman’s life, whether it’s health, beauty, fashion, home or safety.

The event continues from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, and Marianne Vitullo, president of Pinnacle Events and Expos, said the company would like to see more than 2,000 people attend over the weekend.

“Women are always putting someone in front of them – that’s what we do. We give, give, give,” Vitullo said.

“You need to reboot. You have put yourself first once in a while, because if you’re not 100 percent, you can’t give that to your work or your kids.”

Dani Beck and Brittany McCastle said they were looking for a girls’ day after a stressful week as full-time students.

McCastle, who is also a mother, found some relief shimmying on a vibrating exercise platform that supposedly compares to an hour at the gym after 12 minutes.

“You have to take that time to just unwind, and re-gather yourself,” McCastle said. “I feel good after the (vibration platform), I kind of want to do this a little more.”

Other attendees buzzed from vendor to vendor while Saturday’s stage schedule included the “Colors That Delight” fashion show and a “Everyday Safety in Style” demonstration with Longcore, who had safety equipment in shades of pinks, purples and teals.

“Women love to accessorize,” Longcore explained.

However, most of the traffic appeared to gather around Ravenscroft Beauty College, which provided free spa services, including hair, mini manicures, makeup and massages.

Marilyn McQueary, who co-owns Ravenscroft with her husband, Sid, said she wasn’t surprised to see a long line forming. In fact, McQueary expected the area to get busier as the day went on.

“It makes you feel better when you look good,” McQueary said.Read more at:evening gowns | unique formal dresses