The Barrhead Elementary School gym was bustling with women out for a night of fun over the weekend when Barrhead and District Preschool hosted their annual Ladies Night.
At least 300 women attended the masquerade-themed event, which was a fundraiser for the preschool. From cocktails and a delicious dinner, to a fun photo booth, there was no shortage of entertainment.
With a selection from between 60-70 items, the silent auction was a hit. Options ranged from spa day packages, to Oilers tickets, to a variety of gift cards and certificates.
A highlight of the night was the moment hypnotist Curtis Raw took the stage. After requesting the empty chairs on stage be filled by volunteers, the fun began.
The brave women who delved into the world of hypnosis earned cheers and laughter from the crowd, and rightfully so. First they became part of a world class orchestra, playing their hardest for a $100,000 prize. Then they became their favourite childhood toy, and took off into the audience to share the fun.
Fundraising coordinator Laurie Loitz herself volunteered to be hypnotized, thanks to some coaxing from her sister. Though unsure of how she felt about dancing like a rock star in front of a full crowd, she said the night itself was a great success.
Even the tickets belonging to ladies who were unable to attend last minute were resold, said Loitz. Tickets were still selling right up until the day of the event.
“People were calling all morning before. It was crazy,” she said. “The photo booth was a huge hit, and the hypnotist. We got a lot of compliments about the night, so I think it went really well.”
