Time to Think Pink with Shield of Faith
Gwen Akers
The Ashland Beacon
It is time to “Think Pink” with Shield of Faith Gift and Boutique as they prepare for their second “Think Pink” after hours shopping event in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. The event is run by owner Crissy Mayhan and is sure to be a fantastic experience for both awareness and community.
Shield of Faith Gift and Boutique has been a staple business in Ashland for many years, as the business was originally owned by Mayhan’s mom, before being passed down to Crissy in 2021. The boutique started when Mayhan was five-years-old and was based out of their garage. Crissy Mayhan has been working at the business since she was in high school. They were able to host their first “Think Pink” event in 2019 before the pandemic, and now they are ready to resume the tradition. This year’s event is planned for October 21 from 6 to 8 p.m.
In 2019, the event was sponsored by Vera Bradley, and was a massive hit with both new and returning shoppers. This year’s event is in the works and they are currently collecting donations for local breast cancer awareness charities. The event is centered around connection and support – two pillars of helping those that have breast cancer and those that are affected by it. Crissy Mayhan herself lost her aunt to breast cancer, and ever since she has wanted to help those in the community who might be going through the same things.
“It’s just so nice to be able to even talk to some of our customers and hear some of their experiences and just in hopes of one day finding, you know, hopefully they can find a cure for all,” expressed Mayhan.
Gift bags and goodies will be available for survivors and those going through breast cancer, as well as sales and discounts during the event throughout the store for the public.
“We just want people to come out and have a good time,” commented Mayhan.
Missy McCalvin is a longtime customer of Shield of Faith, who cannot wait to be a part of the Think Pink event this year. Her mom is a stage four ovarian cancer survivor, and both love the store and the event.
“Well, I have had several great aunts that have survived breast cancer,” said McCalvin. “It’s important awareness, and something my mom and I take very seriously.”
McCalvin began shopping at Shield of Faith when she became her church’s Youth Director. The store was a wonderful resource for her and her church. McCalvin attended the event in 2019 and loves the support and fellowship of the event.
Think Pink is hopefully going to be an annual event according to Mayhan and is certainly going to be an event you don’t want to miss.
Fellowship, community, and awareness are the pillars of Shield of Faith—as it continues to be a staple business of Ashland. Those interested in the event should be sure to check it out on October 21 from 6 to 8 p.m., as it is sure to allow the community to Think Pink!