While three's company, it was a crowd of more than 90 participants who turned up wigged out, and in colourful caftans, bold prints, and retro flair to channel their inner Mrs. Roper for the inaugural Mrs. Roper Romp hosted by The Cowichan Valley Women’s Collective (CVWC).
To show off their wacky side they travelled far and wide — some from as far away as Medicine Hat, Victoria, Vancouver, and Qualicum — for the first time event which highlighted both the fun and the challenges of community life. The afternoon featured 1970s trivia, a costume parade, a TV theme-song sing-off, and plenty of laughter and even the Curling Club got in the mix with serving themed cocktails.
While the DJ mixed it up, he also stepped up, calling for ride shares as there was no taxi service available in Duncan after 7 p.m. Even one of the staff members from the Duncan Curling Club where the event was hosted stepped in to make sure that everyone got home safely. Local businesses, which also played a role in making the romp a success, include HighPoint Bookkeeping, Willow and Orchid Florists, Laine Vintage, Hungry Bubbas Food Truck, Anywhere Ice Cream, Copycat Print & Design Ltd., and Empty Orchestra Events.
While the event provided some hilarity it also provided some hope; the 50/50 draw raised more than $600, half of which was donated to the Vancouver Island Crisis Line in recognition of Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. For more information, visit www.cowichanvalleywomen.ca, or follow CVWC on Facebook.
"The Mrs. Roper Romp is just the beginning, CVWC will continue creating spaces that are safe, silly, and supportive, with more events already in the works," said organizer Kim Peters. "Thanks go to those who made the event possible: Maggie and Christine for their planning support, Fif for stepping in last minute to welcome guests and run the 50/50 draw, and Sharon and the Curling Club team for hosting this event with energy and creativity."
