Trade shows, expos and brand exhibitions geared toward the African American community offer a wealth of top flight entertainment, unique and affordable shopping, along with a bevy of free activities and product giveaways. These one-stop entertainment options are becoming increasingly popular and are a great value for those on the hunt for fun and excitement at reasonable costs — or as they say, champagne taste on a beer budget. –roz edward
Brian McKnight, Keri Hilson, Pleasure P and Trey Songz are just a few of the A-list artists who performed at the 18th Annual For Sisters Only exhibition in Atlanta. The two-day event sponsored by V-103 offered aisles and aisles of bargain shopping, lots of family-friendly activities, pavilions with top-name vendors providing free samples, giveaways and even a sports bar with flat screen for male companions and female fans to enjoy the best of both worlds — a concert and watching the game under one roof.
Cost: $10
Procter & Gamble’s My Black is Beautiful campaign puts attendees up-close and personal with mega-star brand representative Queen Latifah and accomplished actress Tasha Smith. Hugely popular musical guests Lalah Hathaway, Eric Roberson and DJ Frances Jaye performed on the campaign tour. Can you imagine listening to one of your favorite artists, while getting a free massage, a makeover or your hair done? The much-anticipated tour encourages black women to determine our own standards of beauty and dialogue about African American women’s issues.
Cost: Free
Sister to Sister’s fourth annual Women’s Heart Health Fair brings out thousands of supporters to get heart-smart with lifestyle presentations, cutting-edge information on medical issues, and complimentary heart-health screenings. The group’s efforts are augmented by local celebrity performances and attendees get an opportunity to engage their favorite local stars in intimate discussions about important matters.
Cost: Free
African American women are notorious for being able to stretch a buck and find a bargain, so brands are making these venues more attractive than ever. Some of the added value or indirect benefits include:
1. The events are an affordable forum for women to network, bond, laugh, rekindle friendships and escape the day-to-day demands of their hectic lives.
2. They are easily accessed since organizers are sensitive to transportation needs and identify venues with ample affordable parking or are along
3. Enjoy a day of shopping and pampering with national entertainers enhancing the complete experience.
