By Tim Ryan
Retail Alliance is rolling out the red carpet for Hampton Roads’ military spouses with the first-ever Shop and Shuttle: Hilltop Edition. Set to take place on Friday, September 27, 2024, this one-of-a-kind shopping spree, hosted at The Shops at Hilltop in Virginia Beach, promises an exciting and personalized experience for military spouses in the area.
This sold-out event is more than just a fun day of shopping—it’s a recognition of the resilience and sacrifices military spouses make daily. With 46 spouses registered, Retail Alliance, alongside the Hampton Roads Workforce Council Veteran Employment Centers and the Navy League, is showing how much the local community values these unsung heroes. TowneBank has also stepped up as a sponsor, while the local retailers at The Shops at Hilltop are offering exclusive discounts and raffle donations to enhance the day.
The event kicks off at 9:15 A.M. at The HIVE in Virginia Beach Town Center, where attendees will enjoy networking opportunities over coffee and light snacks. At 10:00 A.M., a complimentary shuttle will transport guests to The Shops at Hilltop for a shopping experience like no other. Each guest will receive a $20 gift voucher, courtesy of Retail Alliance, which can be used at any of the participating stores.
With retailers like California Closets, Adele Diamond, The Fresh Market, and more offering up unique discounts and goodies, military spouses will have access to everything from custom closets to artisanal ice cream. The event wraps up with the shuttle returning to The HIVE at 1:00 P.M., leaving military spouses not just with great finds, but with a stronger connection to Hampton Roads’ vibrant retail community.
Jenny Crittenden, President/CEO of Retail Alliance, emphasizes the importance of this event, stating, “We want our military spouses to feel celebrated and recognized as a vital part of our community. By introducing them to local retailers, we hope they’ll feel more connected to Hampton Roads and possibly make it their permanent home after their military journey.”