Sugar And Spice And Many Things Nice!

The Dandelion Patch in Reston Town Center

Sugar and spice and many things nice was my experience at Girls Night Out held at the Dandelion Patch in Reston Town Center on July 23, 2009.  Even with the torrential rain, I was determined to find my way to this event.   Owner of The Dandelion Patch, Heidi Kallett  and her staff pulled off a fun-filled night despite the dismal weather.  First of all, The Dandelion Patch is a girlie girls’ dream store displayed with a wonderful variety of items from floral stationery to divine flavored tea and unique jewelry.  Part of the event included a special discount for participants.  As I entered the store, I felt like a kid in a candy store.  My eyes were mesmerized by all the wonderful sites, sounds, and smells that encompassed this store and this event.

Heidi made sure that all guests were given the royal treatment from her staff. She is truly a pioneering entrepreneur and is a delight to be around.   In addition to the store’s treasures, representatives from Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa made guests feel like they were part of a girl’s spa day from manicures to a personalized makeovers.  While I was waiting to get my mini-makeover, the smell of the chocolate fountain was hard to resist. Hilary Bradley is owner of  The Chocolate Chick.  Her company excels in the art of making various scrumptious delights. I was excited to witness some major female bonding occurring by the chocolate fountain station.

After chocolate, champagne, and a wonderful makeover, the main event of the evening began.  This part of the event was a book signing by Rebekah L. Pierce.  She was promoting her first mystery novella, “Sex, Lies & Shoeboxes”.  The protagonist is Bobbie Vale, a strong woman who is dealing with her own personal struggles while solving crimes.  The reading was intriguing, the plot and the character development immediately drew me in.  The selection she read was colorful and descriptive, and I found myself visualizing the scene as she read.  I am definitely looking forward to reading this book.

After the reading, I had a chance to chat with Rebekah.  Despite her long commute from Richmond, she was very excited to talk with everyone in the crowded store.  She is truly a dynamic woman with an incredible story.  In addition to being an author and working on a second edition to the Bobbie Vale series, she is the founder and Editor in Chief of Average Girl Magazine.  Average Girl is a motivational and inspirational magazine for women.  Moreover, this remarkable woman is a military veteran, a former radio talk show host, motivational speaker, English teacher, wife and mother.

After leaving this event, I felt very inspired to pursue my own dreams.  A night of sweet treats, the royal treatment, and a dollop of girl power.  What a great way to finish my week!