The holidays are right around the corner, and local vendors are working harder than Santa’s elves to ensure that everyone on your list has a gift they will love.
For clear evidence, check out the Winter Market at the Grange Hall (931 Church Dr.) on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“I enjoy hosting community events,” said the event’s organizer, Carol Griffith.
She told InnisfilToday that Santa Claus will be in attendance to hear children’s Christmas wishes.
Unique gifts — and fun items — will be available from local artisans, bakers, a jewellery maker, a skincare purveyor, Avon and Scentsy representatives, and vendors selling home decor.
As an Avon independent ambassador, Cindy Rose Ferguson and her business, A Cause for Pause, has been “serving the community and beyond since 2017.”
“A great reason to come out for this event would be to enjoy the efforts of community offerings and meet up with neighbours and friends,” Ferguson said. “Not to mention supporting your local community, a lot of planning and creativity goes into facilitating these events and your encouragement by attending fills our hearts.”
Ferguson said she is looking forward to perusing items from the sweets tables and getting unique gift ideas at the event.
“It is always a pleasure to see many of the organizers and vendors again but most of all, I must say, seeing in-person some of the lovely people I've only interacted with on computer and door deliveries ... (There’s) nothing like meeting the folks we communicate with on a regular basis but haven't yet met," she said.
Donations to Community 4 Kids (formerly Christmas for Kids) and the Senior Wish Association will be accepted. Both organizations are focused on providing vulnerable people in the community with items needed at this time of year, so monetary donations and new toys for children of any age will be accepted, as well as new pyjamas, slippers, sweaters and toiletries for seniors.
“With Christmas fast approaching it leaves me considering those who are not in the position to provide or have a Christmas,” Griffith said when asked why the Winter Market is supporting these organizations. “Children young and old need to believe in the spirit of Santa so he will be visiting. Young and old need and deserve the importance of belonging, especially during hard times and what is happening in the world today.”
“(Both groups assist) year-round to ensure they receive help and yes, gifts, during Christmas.”
As a resident of Innisfil for 56 years, Griffith reflected on her life: “I remember Christmas as a child, I may not have received the few things I asked for but I definitely received one. I cherish the memories of spending time with my grandparents on Christmas. The fun, laughter, food made and my aunts, uncles, cousins, et cetera, eating and loving being with each other. It is these memories I fondly remember and those who are no longer with me that made Christmas that special time of year. I want to help these memories grow and continue for others.
“As we get older, it's the memories, smiles and yes, warm fuzzy feeling that makes a community in my opinion."
Griffith has been facing serious health issues for the past four years.
"Events and raising funds for needy causes keeps me going. Mortality makes (one) truly understand and appreciate many things in life.”
In addition to organizing the Winter Market on Saturday, Griffith is organizing a benefit concert with Keith Hampshire in support of Community 4 Kids and the association in December.
“If there was more time between now and December 25th my mind would be racing to help them further,” Griffith said. “We are never guaranteed tomorrow so let us make a difference for others today.”