A fall weekend where women gather to unwind, shop local, sip wine at a newly renovated art museum, and craft wreaths with fresh evergreens — all while supporting Michigan makers and a nonprofit that serves women in crisis.
That’s the idea behind Girlfriends Getaway Weekend, a new event launching Nov. 14–16 in downtown Muskegon.
Designed to foster connection and community while boosting small businesses, the event offers an opportunity for women of all ages to explore local art, culture, and commerce — just in time for the holiday season.
“This event celebrates community, creativity, and connection — all while supporting local makers and small businesses,” says Carla M. Flanders, event producer and owner of CMF Marketing & Events. “Our hope is that it will become a beloved tradition for years to come.”
The weekend is about more than bringing women together for a fun and festive weekend. Organizers have designed the event to support local artists and entrepreneurs while raising awareness for Every Woman’s Place, a Muskegon-based nonprofit that assists women and children facing domestic violence and homelessness.
Two days of activities
Kicking off Friday, Nov. 14, the event begins with registration and a happy hour at the newly renovated and nationally recognized Muskegon Museum of Art. Attendees will receive swag bags filled with locally sourced goodies and enjoy discount packages on hotel stays, meals, and activities.
Saturday, Nov. 15, offers a lineup of hands-on and cultural activities, including:
- The Michigan Makers Market, returning to the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center. The juried artisan fair features handcrafted goods from across the state, from fiber arts to sculpture and woodwork. Admission is $5 for the general public and free for Girlfriends Getaway participants. Artist applications are open through Aug. 1 at michiganmakersmarket.org.
- A wreath-making workshop led by Kalin Sheick of Sweetwater Floral. Known for her podcast, “Lucky Girls Don’t Quit,” Sheick will help participants make 24-inch evergreen wreaths. The session costs $85 for getaway attendees and $90 for the public, and includes all materials.
- Discounted tours of the Hackley & Hume Historic Homes, showcasing Queen Anne-style architecture dressed up for the holidays.
Additional programming includes live music, ballet, nightlife, and museum experiences, making the event a boost to the broader downtown economy as well.
The event will support Every Woman’s Place (EWP), a local nonprofit dedicated to helping women in crisis. EWP will also host a booth at the Michigan Makers Market, where they will share information about their services and accept on-site donations.
Local sponsors and partners include Blended Furniture Market, the Muskegon Museum of Art, and the city of Muskegon Downtown Development Authority.
Tickets are now available on Eventbrite, with options for different activities and interests.
- Girlfriends Getaway weekend pass: $60
- Bundle (getaway + wreath workshop): $145
- Wreath workshop only: $90
- Hackley & Hume tour: $13.50
- Michigan Makers Market (public): $5
- Discounted hotel rate: $149/night at Delta Hotels by Marriott Muskegon
For more information or to register, visit girlfriendsgetaway.org and michiganmakersmarket.org. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Flanders at
carla@cmfmarketing.org.
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