Donald
Teuma-Castelletti
SHAWVILLE Nov. 18, 2017
Atkinsons Sports Bar didn’t see their usual Saturday night crowd last weekend, but that’s because they were catering to a different one.
Hosting their fourth annual Sip and Shop Ladies’ Night, the bar transformed into a mini market, featuring ten vendors, draws and a mimosa on the house.
“The men are hunting, so it’s a good time for the ladies to get together,” said September Hamilton, bar manager and event organizer. “It’s also a good night for exposure.”
Guests were greeted with a mimosa as they walked in, plus the opportunity to enter the raffle for a gift basket filled with goodies.

Shoppers then could check out the variety of vendors onsite, featuring everything from make-up and essential oils to Party Lite and various apparel.
Hamilton offered the vendors the tables for free, saving them the upfront fees of renting a table that they could expect at other craft shows. However, there was one catch – each vendor had to hold a raffle of some kind. How they did it was up to them, as they could have anyone who browsed their booth enter or only those that actually purchased something.
Another bonus for shoppers was the cash and carry rule in place, which applied even to shipping. This meant no taxes to calculate or hidden fees, the price posted was what the customer was paying.
Shoppers had the opportunity to browse and drink at their leisure, as Hamilton had reorganized the bar in a shopping-friendly fashion. Removing most of the casual drinking spaces, she had vendors lined against the walls.
“We removed all the furniture and set it up like a craft show,” she said.
This setup also worked to serve a second purpose.
“It has a flow to it now, so you’re not tripping over drunk people,” said Hamilton, laughing.