Show aims to be 'shopping adventure'

More than 100 exhibitors displayed their wares aimed at women's spiritual and physical health, in addition to their beauty, decorating and practical needs at the Show Me Center on Saturday.

"Vendors used to have the perception that it was just trick or treat for women," said Meg Davis, executive director of the show. "By attracting a variety of vendors, we've made it a shopping adventure all under one roof complete with information about important issues that influence and affect all women. Individuals from the medical industry are here providing information. Women make a lot of the decisions for their families. Let's face it. There's just not a business in existence that women aren't influenced by in some way."

For Jerri Keller, it was shopping at its best without toting five children around.

"You don't have the hassle of taking them in and out of the stores," she said.

Virginia Wood of Chaffee, Mo., said, "We come every year. It's family time, and we like to see all the new things."

Members of the Red Hat Society, a women's group, were out and about in their identifying apparel.

"The show is a lot of fun," said Edna Cross of Jackson. "I've been here before but it's my first time as a Red Hat. When you put on the Red Hat, you're a different person."

Last year, about 5,000 people attended the two-day Women's Show. Davis said the numbers will be higher this year "because we've made it more interesting."