"It’s shopping for a great cause," said Sharon L. Harrup, Chief Executive Officer of STEPS, Inc., as she walked into their huge Farmville facility—where starting Friday evening, Nov. 12, the inaugural HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA kicks off. "Proceeds will benefit STEPS, the local, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing training and employment for individuals with disabilities."
With over 60 high quality vendors including artists, craftsmen and retail businesses—each invitation-only and jury selected— Sharon, her dedicated co-workers and volunteers have created a yuletide showcase bound to become an annual destination event for the entire East Coast.
"Farmville is magical—with its thriving historical downtown and open country," said Sharon. "We’ve booked a block of hotel rooms at special rates for everyone wishing to make it a weekend."
As holiday music puts everyone in a joyous mood, you’ll find much to delight the eye: original artwork, quilts, festive wreaths, ornaments, home accessories, jewelry, jams, jellies, all sorts of confections and more. Especially for wine lovers, 11 of Virginia’s finest wineries offer festive gift packages—and on Saturday and Sunday, wine tastings to please both palate and purse.
Local businesses have sponsored the "Festival of Trees," 13 gaily festooned theme trees—and shoppers are invited to bid on their contents in the Silent Auction. Delights include the Vacation Tree, Children’s Tree, Pets Tree and Spa Tree.
"Come Friday night and meet Dr. Christopher Howard, President of Hampden-Sydney College and Honorary Chairman of the Holiday Extravaganza," encouraged Sharon. "Then bid on the Hampden-Sydney Tree, decorated with the school’s gift items plus a Hampden-Sydney Logo Captain’s Chair. It’s a $1,000 value."
The Friday night festivities start with a Gala Opening /Wine Tasting Passport with heavy hors d’oeuvres, followed by live performances by Steve Bassett, Ammon Tharp and the Mystic Soul Bubbas
Saturday and Sunday, in the midst of the merriment, take a moment to relax in the Holiday Café while sampling home-made delectables.
"You won’t even have to carry your purchases to your car; we’ll take care of that," laughed Sharon. "Everything you buy helps someone else, so we’re here to pamper you."
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement