The 2026 Women’s Health Expo & Retail Therapy vendor registration is now open and offering discounted booth prices until Aug. 15.
Organized by the Hot Springs Women’s Leadership Alliance, in partnership with Direct Surgical Care/Direct Integrative Health of Hot Springs, the second annual expo will take place at the Oaklawn Event Center from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Oct. 1.
With the early bird discount, standard booth pricing starts at $175 and can be modified according to needs. Vendors are encouraged to register early to secure the best booth locations, as booth space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the HSWLA website.
One of the founding members of the HSWLA, Ashley Thompson, told The Sentinel-Record they are looking for vendors who share their mission to “make women’s health accessible while creating a happier, healthier community.
“We believe taking care of yourself includes both physical/mental wellness and supporting the businesses that make our community thrive,” she said. “We encourage vendors to embrace that spirit by educating and engaging with attendees while showcasing the products and services they are passionate about.”
She said they are inviting women-owned or managed businesses and organizations that share their purpose, to be a part of this special day.
Because the event is family-friendly and centered on women’s health and wellness, Thompson asked that only vendors whose products or services fit that mission apply.
They are inviting local entrepreneurs, including “healthcare providers, wellness professionals, fitness experts, nutrition specialists, beauty and self-care businesses, boutiques, artisans, home decor, gifts, jewelry and other women focused retail vendors to showcase their products, services and resources,” Thompson said.
According to a news release, the expo offers vendors “an opportunity to connect with hundreds of attendees, increase brand visibility, generate new customers and network with other businesses serving the Hot Springs community.”
Last year, the free community event hosted 75 exhibitors from a wide variety of industries.
The attendees were able to “connect with hospitals and medical clinics, behavioral and mental health providers, chiropractors, physical therapy and rehabilitation services, hearing specialists, health and fitness organizations, life coaches, insurance agencies, massage therapy, aesthetics and wellness providers, home health services, senior care resources and numerous nonprofit organizations.”
“In addition to shopping and community resources, attendees had access to free health screenings, educational presentations and interactive demonstrations throughout the day,” Thompson said.
Throughout the day, doctors and healthcare professionals will lead talks on topics pertaining to women’s health.
“Our goal is simple: Bring together the people and organizations that help women be successful,” Thompson said.
“By combining health, education, and local business in one welcoming space, we hope to inspire women to care for themselves, while strengthening the community that supports them,” she said.
“We know many women spend so much time caring for their families, careers and others that their own health and well-being often take a back seat. This event creates a space where women can prioritize themselves.
“It’s a day dedicated to reminding women that taking care of themselves isn’t selfish. We want attendees to leave feeling empowered by both the health resources they discovered and the local businesses they supported.”
Discounted rates will remain available for nonprofits to “make it easy for community organizations to connect with the women they serve.”
Current pricing and registration information can be found on the Women’s Health Expo page at http://hswomenleaders.org.
