Pamper and shop event launched by Ramsgate mum

Luxury, relaxation and the chance to be pampered and shop are the main attractions of a new event due to launch this weekend.

Ciao Bella Events hosts its first pamper and shop day at Stonelees Golf Centre, Ramsgate, this Saturday (March 18) from noon to 4pm.

The venture is the brainchild of Karen Bellamy, who already owns Ciao Bella Jewellery, which specializes in pop up shops and jewellery parties.

The pop-up business has been running for three years and was created after Karen decided she wanted a new route in life.

She said: “I took a degree in sociology but graduated in 2008, when we had the economic crash. I started writing novels, unsuccessfully, and ran a writing group but decided it was time to do something else.”

The pop-ups have been running successfully, last year being held at Coco Latino at Ramsgate arches but Karen is now branching out.

The former marketing and event manager said: “ I decided to expand the brand to include events, as I am always meeting up with small business people, like myself, who are looking for places to sell their products or services.

“There is a plethora of craft markets in Thanet, but not all of us fit into that category, so I decided to utilise my event management skills.

“This Pamper and Shopping Afternoon is the first in what I hope will be a series of women focussed events, which will take place over the next few months, in Thanet.

“They will bring together small businesses, working in the therapeutic, beauty and  retail sector, in attractive and relaxing venues, where customers and clients can experience an enjoyable afternoon.”

The aim is to hold the events in venues that can offer the chance for visitors to eat, drink and have a place to sit and chat.

The mum-of-one, who lives in Ramsgate with husband  Neil and son George, a talented baker also launching a new business in the town, and dog Harry, is on the hunt for restaurants and hotels with conference facilities for future events.

She said: “ I am hoping this event will be the first of many and want to be in a venue that has some luxury, where people can have lunch and a drink and sit down together. It is about having an experience.”

The first event will offer taster sessions for Indian head massage, reflexology, Reiki and massage. Goods on offer to buy will include jewellery, bags, skincare and hand-made chocolates.

Taster sessions are £10 for 15 minutes and can be booked on the day.

To find out more, or if your venue would like to host a pamper day, contact Karen through facebook.