The 14th annual Junior League Market Shopping for a Cause is gearing up to help shoppers prepare for spring.
This fundraising event will be held March 6-8 at the Shreveport Convention Center. It will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $5.
Elba Urbina Hamilton, president Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier Inc., said the event is certain this will be “one of the best markets to date.”
“We hope to give shoppers a great experience and have them get knowledge about what we do in the community,” Hamilton said. “We’ll be hosting several special events during the weekend, and will have a public relations booth where shoppers can learn more about our work and how to become a member of this great organization.”
The Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
“It’s purpose is exclusively educational and charitable,” Hamilton said. “Ladies working the event are not only raising funds for our League, but are also acquiring training that will help them in future projects and well beyond their actives years in our organization.”
The market event is the League’s biggest fundraiser every year, featuring three days of unique shopping, fashions, food and entertainment that showcase their community projects and mission-based initiatives. Funds raised will go into the community via one of 11 community projects, including Bingo at University Hospital, Health Literacy Intiative, Kids in the Kitchen, Safe Sitter and more.  
“There are several new events this year,” Hamilton said. “As well as a return of old favorites.”
For example, Breakfast with the Bunnies will be held at 8:30 a.m. March 7 for $20 per ticket. This event features photos taken with live bunnies, a breakfast buffet and appearances by princesses and Captain America.
“This is perfect for the younger kids and they’ll be entertained before market opens for shopping.” Hamilton said.
Alex Person, market chair for JLSB, said she is especially looking forward to this year’s Girls Night Out party 7 to 10 p.m. March 6. For $35 a ticket, women can shop, listen to music, enjoy a margarita from Thrifty Liquor, and have fun in a photo booth. There will also be the return of the popular champagne diamond raffle, where ladies may purchase a $25 glass of champagne with the chance to win an amazing diamond necklace from Sid Potts.  
“Girls Night Out is sure to be a great night of fun, laughter, and shopping while enjoying great conversation with friends,” Person said.
Another new event for this year’s market is the Tween Scene party, held March 7 at 2 p.m. for $10 per ticket. “This will be like a mini party within the market while moms shop,” Person said. “Tween Scene will offer a ‘braid bar’ for hairstyles, cupcakes and a photo booth for tween girls to enjoy with their friends.”
Jessica Bennett, market co-chair for JLSB, is also looking forward to this year’s market.
“I’m excited about the new Friday, Saturday, Sunday weekend format,” Bennett said. “It gives shoppers a chance to stop by on Sunday after church and not have to rush on Saturday.”
A few other unique components include Market Bucks, which are coupons purchased at booths at a fraction of their value to use while shopping.
“We will bring back Merchant Madness again, as well, where shoppers are entered into a drawing for some great giveaways when they shop at five different vendors,” Hamilton said.
“People should participate in the Junior League of Shreveport-Bossier Spring Market because the money raised at market will be given back to the community through our many community projects we do each year,” Person said. “We’re able to do projects in the community that benefit the well being of women and children. Without the shoppers at market, we would not be able to bring new projects to the community. This is a fun event to participate in, with great special events throughout the weekend and fabulous merchants to shop from. The shoppers will not be disappointed!”
Learn more at www.jlsb.org.