STORY BY ANTONIA SALAPIC
Women were standing and hollering for a glimpse of topless firefighters this weekend at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
The National Women’s Show offered women a weekend showcase of more than 450 exhibits of cosmetics, clothes, food and tutorials.
The show was divided into, fashion and style, beauty and wellness, travel, fitness and leisure, world of taste and the business and career centre.
Michelle Rosetta, owner and creator of BEE 23, came to the show this year to display her natural beeswax-based balms for lips, skin and body.
“ I wanted to come here today so I can present my products to my targeted audience, and plus the atmosphere here is great,” said Rosetta.
“Being at this event gave my products some positive attention. It was helpful for me to be here today because the next time any of these women are in the retail stores [where] my products are available, they will recognize what they say today,” said Rosetta.
National Event Management, a production company that specializes in customized events, industry trade shows, corporate events and more, produces the event every year.
Now in its 12th year, the event drew 38,000 visitors last year.
There were live presentations throughout the weekend including cooking shows and guest speakers. Women were also able to take advantage of some free services like makeup and hair tutorials.
A new service provided this year was a free daycare with activities and crafts for children aged 3 to 12, provided by Improv Care.
Celebrity chef Roger Mooking and Melody Thomas Scott who plays Nikki Newman on The Young and The Restless made guest appearances.
The event ended with Toronto firefighters modelling Marks’ Work Wearhouse menswear with proceeds going to Princess Margaret Hospital.
Women come to the event to learn about products that would be of interest to them and to receive goodie bags filled with free samples, coupons, product information and more.
Mary-Anne Keith, a Toronto resident, came to the show with her mother Gloria and her daughter Kelly to share a girl’s day out.
“ I couldn’t believe all of the goodies that we got today. I have food in here, coupons, skin care samples, even cat treats, “ said Keith.
They were also able to enter raffles for chances to win products from purses and jewelry to full spa packages.
“With everything that goes on in our day-to-day lives, it’s nice to just come, relax, and just enjoy the day together sampling food, and watching fireman put on a fashion show,” said Keith.