News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

(Photo:   Rosie Murphy <on left> is one of the many vendors who will have quality, hand-made items on display at the Early Bird Cristmas Craft Fair at the Elks Hall on November 13 and 14.)

By LeRae Haynes

The Early Bird Christmas Craft Fair is back by popular demand, and will fill the Elks Hall on November 13 and 14 with a full range of hand-crafted gifts ideas, home décor and furnishings, clothing, jewelry, items for babies and children, baked delicacies and more. 

This will be the 9th annual fair, where crafters and shoppers come together in a lively, fun, friendly atmosphere. Organizer Carmen Schwarz said that the Elks Hall location is a positive benefit for the fair. “Everybody’s so happy we’re back at Elks Hall: it’s nice and central and convenient. There’s plenty of room and it’s right downtown so that you can walk over on your lunch hour or stop by after work.” 

(Photo:  Shoppers can find gift ideas for all ages at the craft fair, including fresh-baked Christmas delicacies, baby wear, furniture and much more.)

Shoppers will find homemade quality items that make wonderful gifts, and treasures you simply can’t live without. “One of the main benefits is that it’s one-stop Christmas shopping for all ages, from babies to seniors and for men and women,” she continued. “This is a wonderful Cariboo tradition that features crafters and vendors from the entire area, including 100 Mile House, Williams Lake, Horsefly, 108 Mile, 150 Mile and Lac La Hache---there’s something here for everyone.” 

You can find felted slippers and hats, Springhouse scents and photography, Disney character crotched blankets and Father Christmas figures, furniture and décor. New items this year will include Heather McKinny’s beautiful wooden benches with wool, plaid cushions for true Cariboo warmth and comfort. 

Heather said that she and her husband have access to driftwood and lumber, and started making benches for themselves and as gifts for friends and family. “I love outdoor crafts and ‘woodsy’, natural things, and when we had extra benches, I thought I’d bring this new line to the craft fair,” she explained. “We also found boxes of Pendleton plaid wool, so I decided to make cushions and pillows, too. 

“I love this craft fair,” she added. “It’s lively and friendly and has so many different types of vendors and products.” 

The craft fair will also feature 100% Canadian Heritage Valley Alpaca products, wooden toys and games made by Mike Royal and Peter Smith, Happy Gold Nugget Jewelry, polished rocks, gems and dream catchers. There will be pottery, fresh baked goods by newcomer Sue Peters and Rosie Murphy’s renowned bannock, Wee Two Treasures kids wear and Barbie clothes, therapeutic and magnetic jewelry and Lil and Murray Manual’s bowls, lamps and furniture. 

There will be Pursicles, African butterfly hair clips, Mad Hatter fleece wear, Amber Moon Botanicals and First Nations leather and beaded products. Shoppers can find Italian charms, fleece baby blankets, hand-made colourful ‘scrubbies’, health fleece sheets, Pampered Chef, Epicure, Beauty Control, Tupperware and 5th Avenue Jewelry. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing all my friends at the fair and visiting with everybody,” Carmen said. “I hope all the vendors do well and that everyone enjoys the sale.” 

 There are a few vendor spots still available. For more information about the fair or to sign up as a vendor phone Carmen at 296-3590 or Bev at 398-5337.

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