The Tribune

Marilyn Munroe once said: "Happiness is not in money, it's in shopping. So, as Grand Bahama's "happiest hotel", it made sense for Pelican Bay to do its part in spreading the joy of shopping for residents on the island.

Shopaholics from around Grand Bahama Island were treated to an interactive experience which combined the power of retail, beauty, creativity, live entertainment and wine for a "sip and shop" experience.

Canal House at Pelican Bay was the perfect location for the first ever Sip & Shop Soirée. Nearly 30 retail vendors, including clothing and accessory, skincare, beauty and wellness brands were all on display on March 24, providing a much-needed business boost for those who participated.

"What we really wanted to do was offer an elevated experience," said Pelican Bay Operations Manager Della Bridgewater.

"We wanted to create a beautiful and comfortable atmosphere for our guests to enjoy great food, good wine, and of course, shop. Each vendor who reached out to us was given the freedom to really showcase the best of what they had to offer, in the beautiful atmosphere of our Canal House."

While scores of shoppers turned out to take advantage of the deals, even more turned for the interactive elements of the soirée which included a live makeup demonstration from one of the country's leading makeup artists, Lucy Lu.

With an Instagram following of more than 5,000, online tutorials which garner thousands of views and shares, and a beauty brand which continues to grow, the woman behind Lucy Lu Beauty, Lucena Sawyer, offered an on-the-spot demo for makeup artists and enthusiasts alike.

"In planning this event we also tried to incorporate elements of beauty and creativity, so it made sense for us to include Lucy Lu Beauty who really transformed her muse for the day and inspired the women in the room to embrace their own beauty as well," said Ms Bridgewater.

In keeping with its theme of beauty and creativity, the Sip & Shop Soirée also showcased the artwork of Grand Bahama-born artist Benjamin Ferguson, whose vibrant pieces enhanced the overall experience.

"We were very excited to have Benjamin come on board, not only did he bring some amazing pieces with him but he also demonstrated his ability to work on the spot by creating signature pieces as the event got underway around him and that was a real treat for our guests," said Ms Bridgewater.