The Botha Christmas Market held at the Botha Community Hall on Saturday, Nov. 7 was a mixed bag of diverse vendors from in and around the county.
Organizing the event for the second year, Christine Weldrick said, "This is my second year organizing the Botha christmas market and it won't be my last."
With the approaching holiday season, the market couldn't have been held at a more suitable time, with people from the community already looking for Christmas gifts and wares for the festive period of the year.
Although this was not Weldrick's idea, having participated a couple of times as a vendor of gourmet spices, prior to organizing it for 2014 and 2015, Weldrick said, "I love it, because it brings the community together!"
With enthusiastic shoppers starting to stop by as early as 9 a.m., the market appeared to cater to everyone's needs with the exhibits offering almost everything from handmade recycled items and flower cards to knitted and crocheted clothing to leggings to food items and even a photography studio,
Speaking of the turnout, Weldrick thinks that this year saw a larger footfall than last.
"The turnout was definitely better this year than last," added Weldrick. "We had twice as many vendors and way more foot traffic."
Coming all the way from Coronation was Laurie Bullick with artwork from her shop, Double Heart Stained Glass Design.
"My husband Rob and I teach stained glass painting, but whenever we can find recyclable items such as jar lids, we incorporate them into our artwork," said Bullick.
From miniature Christmas tree ornaments to wall hangings, Bullick's display was an intriguing treasure trove for children and adults alike.
Next year, Weldrick plans to market the bazaar with a little more fanfare, putting in more advertising for visibility,
"Next year I'm planning on getting better signs to put up on the highway entrances to Botha, something that is more sturdy and durable, which I think my husband will help with," said Weldrick. "And I'd also like to advertise even more than what I did this year."