HAMPDEN — The Starting Gate at GreatHorse will transform into a festive, women-powered marketplace on Nov. 29 when Babes Brews & Browsing presents its highly anticipated holiday shopping event, Babes For A Cause, Shop For A Reason.
Now in its third season at the venue, the event blends small business shopping, live entertainment and unique experiences — all while raising funds for Shriners Children’s New England.
Founder Jill Moccio Connors, creator of Babes Brews & Browsing, said the concept came together the moment she first toured the venue. “Babes For A Cause, Shop For A Reason was an idea I came up with after touring The Starting Gate at GreatHorse and knowing that I had to bring my women-owned group to that venue,” Connors said. “I knew the best way to ensure that this was a successful event was to make it a charity event, as charity and giving back are near and dear to my heart.”
The mission is especially personal. Connors’ son, Jackson, now 9, has been treated at Shriners Children’s New England since birth for a severe club foot. His early care included casting, corrective devices worn 23 hours a day, and, later, an invasive surgery in 2021.
“We are lucky and blessed to have this right in our backyard,” said Connors. “Everyone has been helped by Shriners Children’s at some point, and we all have a tie to it. It’s our duty to ensure those children continue to get the best care possible.”
Since March 2024, her events have already generated more than $56,000 for Shriners in Jackson’s honor.
This month’s event will bring together 48 women-owned businesses, offering everything from clothing and candles to baked goods, dog products, artwork, jewelry, skincare and home décor.
“We have worked hard to ensure that our guests can shop for everyone on their holiday list under one roof while keeping it local and fabulous,” Connors said.
Live acoustic music by Dave Feeley and Rob Jacque of Project 267 will set the tone. Guests can also enjoy complimentary experiences such as salon services from Salon Tres Chic and Day Spa, Reiki by Deb Koske, massage from Lisa Bernardini LMT, and mediumship readings from Kathleen Farris. These additions, Connors said, are part of her goal to make the night feel “magical.” “This event is successful because of these women — they add so much value to the event.”
A limited number of VIP tickets offer extended early shopping, swag bags and first access to complimentary services.
“Tickets were well over 500 last year — the place is electric,” Connors said. “VIP was the next way to grow this. You are guaranteed to get to see each and every vendor before everyone else.”
Connors encouraged newcomers to give the event a try.
“If you choose just one event this season in a sea of a million, choose this one,” she said. “We aren’t a craft fair. This is an upscale shopping event with so much more. It’s a party vibe. It’s shopping brought to the next level, all while benefiting Shriners Children’s New England.”
Local restaurant Pafumis on Main will also donate 10% of food sales during special hours on Nov. 25 and 29 for attendees who show proof of ticket purchase.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite by searching “Babes For A Cause, Shop For A Reason.” Admission is $30, which Connors describes as “your donation to Shriners Children’s — and the key that unlocks the door to magic.”
The Starting Gate at Great Horse is located at 128 Wilbraham Road.
