Two events coincided for Tom Monahan to found Ultimate Events and Expos, which would eventually produce, among other things, the Cincinnati Women’s Expo this weekend. First, he was working at a car dealership, helping to put together a manufacturing show inviting vendors from all automotive categories. Second, he attended a women’s fashion show.

“It was more of a beauty show, with different spas and hair salons,” he said. “I thought it would be good to bring in more retail, make it more lifestyle-oriented.”

Today, the Cincinnati Women’s Expo, which has been held periodically in Cincinnati over the last five years, will feature 150 vendors in the health, beauty, food and home decor industries, all on hand demonstrating, sampling and selling their products.

“It addresses everything to do with women,” Monahan said. “We have investment seminars, advice for women who leave marriages where the husband controlled all the finances, and now they’re experiencing culture shock.”

Monahan conceded that many expo-goers are homemakers or working women whose husbands still aren’t doing their share of the housework.

“There are cooking demonstrations that give easy recipes for women who come home from work and have only 30 minutes to make dinner,” he said. “(The demographic) is 33-55, though we get a nice older contingent, too.”

Monahan said that the show is growing each year, with major sponsors such as Kroger, State Farm and Home Depot. Those shopping for beauty will find purses, jewelry, cosmetics, accessories, hair care, skin care and nail care. Home decor will cover appliances, kitchens and baths, furniture, home theater entertainment, patios and spas. Health will focus on balanced lifestyles. Food will advise on cooking and nutrition.

Monahan noted that, as with wedding expos, it typically isn’t a comprehensively female clientele.

“We get some husbands, too,” he said. “And believe it or not, single men.”