The Alternative Press

FANWOOD, NJ – Severe thunderstorms threatened to halt the party, but the first annual Fanwood Business and Professional Association Ladies’ Night Out was a smashing success.

Tracy Constandi, vice-president of the FBPA and co-owner, with her husband, of Frank’s Auto Repair, was the moving force behind the evening.  “Tracy really hit the pavement and made it happen,” said BPA Board member Brian Walter, co-owner of Flannery’s Pub in Fanwood.

“This is something that the members had been asking for,” said Constandi, “and as an Association we are here to help everyone increase their business.  I really was concerned that the weather was going to be a problem, but it really just cleared the air and brought the temperature down, and for that I was very grateful.”

Many hours of preparation and planning went into the evening.  A number of Fanwood Merchants had specials just for the ladies and a “Tricky Tray” event saw participants receiving a ticket for every dollar that they spent that they could place in the bag under the prize of their choice.

“I was really glad to see so many ladies taking advantage of the complimentary chair massages, the live music, the shopping, dining and just hanging out with the girls,” said Fanwood Mayor Coleen Mahr.  “Our merchants offer a range of unique offerings that are available with a “small town” vibe.  This has been a great success and we look forward to seeing even more participants at the next Ladies Night Out!”

“It was a wonderful evening,” said Helen Ling, co-owner of Enchantments on South Avenue.  “Everyone came together and there was such a feeling of community in our downtown.  Tracy did a phenomenal job of organizing this event.  I was also worried about the storm, but right at 6 o’clock the ladies started to arrive!”

The participating merchants included:

Frank’s Auto Repair, Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography, Rice Inn, The Bath Connection, Crown Jewelers, Nicks Pizza & Deli, Fanwood Nails, Double Dipper Café, Enchantments, Seng Couture, Mindy Body Spirit, Curves, Club West, Shalom Fanwood Nails, Flannery’s Pub, Fabio’s, Scotchwood Florist, The Goddard School, Diva Nails, China Moon, Norman’s Hallmark