Whistler women are celebrating their sisterhood in style, with a plethora of pampering and parties during the fourth annual Women’s Week, dubbed “Charge of the Goddess.”
Amber Turnau, public relations coordinator for Whistler-Blackcomb, says the week is all about bringing local women together.
“It’s just a chance for ladies to get out there and get together, reconnect with friends,” said Turnau. “When girls get together, they have lots of fun and dance the night away.”
Activities kicked off Monday evening with ladies and gents milling about during a Goddess Night at the Glacier Shop, featuring music by DJ Dakota and makeup applications by Lily Cosmetics. CTV crews were even on-hand, broadcasting live.
Whistler-Blackcomb also hopes to encourage more ladies to get back on the slopes by offering 40 per cent discounted rates on women’s Roxy and Burton camps this weekend.
“Traditionally female participation does tend to drop after late teens, so we really wanted to get ladies up there and enjoying skiing and snowboarding again,” explained Turnau.
During the day on Saturday they will also host an all-girls rail jam — the Queen of the Rail competition.
But the big event of the week will be the all-girls final wrap party on Saturday night. In keeping with the goddess theme, ladies are encouraged to get into the spirit, and dress in “classier” togas for the final wrap party.
DJ Dan, Lon and Vadim will offer up electro rock to jam to, and don’t worry, guys — men will be allowed in after midnight, if there’s room. Tickets are $15.
Each year, money raised through Women’s Week celebrations goes towards the B.C. Cancer Foundation, and this year is no exception.
But Whistler-Blackcomb has decided to put a special focus on supporting women, with proceeds going towards the digital mammography waiting room and the breast cancer patient education room.
“It’s really a chance to brighten those areas up for the ladies and their families that spend so much time there,” said Turnau, adding they have a goal of raising $5,000.
Organizers have also found a creative way to get ladies to part with their hard-earned dollars.
“This year, the way we’re going to raise funds is actually by renting out Greek gods, inside the GLC, and they can do everything from carry your purse to fetch your drinks for you, to carry your coat,” Turnau explained.
This year’s Women’s Week activities have put a smile on at least one woman’s face so far. Lisa Duncan of Squamish was selected as the winner of the Charge of the Goddess photo contest winner for her submission entitled, “Give Me a Break.”
Duncan won a $16,000 prize pack, including two nights at the Westin for her and nine friends, 10 Avella Spa packages, 10 two-day lift tickets, 10 beauty packs from Lily Cosmetics, and 10 two-day ski and snowboard camps.
