LAST Thursday, Jamaica OBSERVER CELEBRATES FASHION’S NIGHT OUT (FNO) 2011. It was the second year that Montego Bay was hosting the event but it seemed this year persons were still recuperating from back-to-school shopping, as the crowd was smaller than last.

Whitter Village

The participating stores at Whitter Village saw many of customers throughout the night. Stores like Watts New and Payless had most of their customers early in the evening taking advantage of the great deals that were available. But the clothes and techie stores weren’t the only ones involved, Coffee N’ Cream Café had customers sipping and munching throughout the evening, enjoying the live band at the fountain who played a variety of music for the shoppers. Across the road at Blue Diamond, a few shoppers ventured to Fresh Look Beauty Supplies to stock up on their cosmetic products.

Downtown MoBay

In the heart of the town the traffic was like that on Grand Market night, however, the pedestrian crowd was like that of a regular Saturday evening. Despite our observations, the managers of the stores said they saw not only regular customers as FNO also attracted new customers.

MK Mart was one of the stores TEENage visited which had a lot of shoppers.

A cashier said, “the sale was successful with up to 50 per cent off some items. However, you just can’t please Jamaicans because they wanted up to 75 per cent off all items”.

Maxie was crowded with customers and window shoppers walking in and out all night. All of the store’s staff was busy, but one clerk managed to tell TEENage, “the experience was splendid and mi never know so much people was in town shopping”.

Bogue

Xtras jewellery store was one of the most crowded all night as the loyal customers dragged their friends to experience the store’s wide variety of unique jewellery. Store manager Karen Cameron told us the customers just kept coming and though the crowd dwindled by 8:00 pm the sales were superb.

“I’m extremely grateful for this wonderful night organised by the Jamaica Observer and we are looking forward to next year.”

Jason, a customer, told TEENage that “this sale came at the best time because my mom, sister and girlfriend have their birthday this month so I can get their gifts tonight!”

There was no way you could have been in the area and not hear the music that was blasting from Shimmer. They not only had a DJ providing entertainment but they also had a buffet line for all who entered the store. Most of the patrons said they were shopping for other family members and were appreciative of the sale.

Recently opened ATL AutoHaus dealership was a part of Fashion’s Night Out and provided deals that wowed the customers. They also provided wine and cheese for the adults to enjoy while lounging and mingling in the store.

Although it began to rain in the night, persons seeking shelter were lured into picking up a few items that were on sale, and that did not deter persons from coming out to enjoy the attractions of the night. The stores provided great prices, good entertainment and most offered splendid finger food and refreshments.

We look forward to a more successful year next year and hope to see more patrons enjoying the massive deals.

— Tara Salmon