Celebrate event set for Jan. 29, 30 at city hall

A conversation about the need for a girls’ weekend led a local group of women to plan a getaway for as many as 200 women.

Only the “getaway” is an intentional girls’ weekend with a faith focus, and women need only to drive to downtown Andalusia for their “escape.”

Shannon Jackson, spokeswoman for the group, said the event, called Celebrate, is set for Andalusia City Hall on Fri. and Sat., Jan. 29 and 30.

“That original idea grew into what is now Celebrate,” Jacksons aid. “We celebrate our friendships, faith, and again, life in this community. We wanted to plan a faith-based event that broke down barriers.”

The group secured Courtney Reichley to be the guest speaker.

“Some ladies on our team actually had heard her speak,” Jackson said.

Reichley is president of Wayfarer, Inc. She uses invitational stories and humor to challenge women to live into the life God has for them.

Local artists Amanda Henderson, Bethany Huckabaa, Jamie Kelly, Timmy Stewart, and Ely Phillips will lead praise and worship.

Because the women wanted to put together an event for all interests and ages, they also planned break-out sessions. Jackson is among the small group leaders, and will talk about the challenges of having a blended family.

Other small group leaders include McKenna Fore, who weaves faith into her workouts; Meredith Ramer, who will talk about dealing with loss; and Nancy Dove, who will share her experiences as a single parent; and Laura Ashley Ingram Harper, has served in mission field in England.

Other topics include homeschooling, mentoring, Bible journaling, she said.

Friday’s session begins at 6:30, and will be followed by dessert.

Saturday, events are set from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., and will include a chicken salad lunch.

Tickets are $20, and include all events. They are available at Pink Peppers, Town & Country, Alan Cotton’s Florist, and Palmer & Sons in Andalusia and at Body Conscious in Opp, as well as some local churches.

There are only 200 tickets available.

For additional information, contact Jackson at shannon.jackson@seagd.com.