The first evening of a three-day Shecky’s event took place last night at DAR Constitution Hall. Touted as a “girl’s night out,” this national company brings together local and national vendors in a single venue for an evening of friends, fun, and of course, shopping.

Tuesday’s event was sold out, and by 7 PM—the event opened at 5—an after-work crowd was streaming in at a fast pace, mostly in groups of two or three. Ages ranged from mid-twenties to late fifties, although most women appeared to be in their late twenties or early thirties.

Those expecting the District Sample Sale or Alexandria Warehouse Sale quality were probably disappointed, but there was a small array of designer merchandise, such as $99 denim by names like True Religion, as well as a stocked booth from top-notch local jewelry designer Queen Bee Designs.

Gaggles of girlfriends poked through vendors, who were mainly hawking jewelry, and waited in long lines to nab Bacardi and T.G.I. Friday’s drink samples. Giggling women approached booths including “Slumber Parties,” which promised a fun atmosphere for anything from lingerie to lotions to, of course, “things that go buzz in the night.”

Jewelry was the thing to buy—many designers were offering steep discounts, and most items were well under $50.

If you’re contemplating a visit tonight or tomorrow—the show ends Thursday—be sure to head downstairs and pick up your goodie bag, which included freebies such as teeth-whitening trays, Dove samples, Lindt chocolate bars (yum!), and Borba skin-balance water, which, despite its odd color and lychee-fruit flavoring, tasted quite good.

Consider arriving early to sign up for the half-hour Budweiser beer-and-food-pairing seminar—the list was full an hour into the evening. We didn’t get a chance to sample, but the women who took part looked to be having fun!

Wednesday and Thursday 5 to 10 PM; $25. DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St., NW. sheckys.com

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