ROCKLAND—The yellow barn at 20 Winter Street in Rockland turned into a glamorous boutique on Monday, Aug. 20, when New Hope For Women hosted a VIP Opening for its pop-up shop to support women and victims of domestic violence.

Hosted by a committee of local women and the New Hope For Women’s staff, Brittany Ciccketti and Brandy Dupper-Macy, the VIP event kicked off with welcome remarks from Cathy Landau-Painter and Pinny Beebe-Center, interim executive director of New Hope For Women, before turning the mic over to Shannon Kinney, Founder of Dream Local Digital, who gave a short speech to inspire women.

The mission of New Hope for Women is to provide support to people in Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, and Waldo counties affected by domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking, and provide educational resources to assist communities in creating a safer and healthier future.

With gourmet appetizers and wine, the VIP guests then had the opportunity to “shop” the boutique exclusively before the pop-up shop opens to the public on Tuesday Aug. 21, and Wednesday, Aug. 22.

More than $30,00 worth of merchandise was donated by area clothing stores and individuals. Guests had their first pick of designer items, business casual, vintage clothing and and hundreds of quality accessories such as shoes, belts, scarves, lingerie and jewelry.

“This pop-up shop has been an idea that we’ve had in the past as an Eileen Fisher event,” said Ciccketti. “So, now we’re turning the concept into a bigger event with a mix of new and gently upcycled clothing. All of the proceeds go to New Hope For Women.”

The pop-up shop is open to the public on Aug. 21 and 22 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information on New Hope For Women and a list of the sponsors and supporters of this event visit: New Hope For Women.