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take5.ca
DEC/JAN 2024
The Heart & Soul of Christmas Craft Fairs BY NADINE WONG With the Christmas craft fair season upon us, bringing together many talented crafters and artisans eager to showcase their creations, let’s look at what it takes for these folks to participate in a fair. For vendors, success at these festive events hinges on the products they produce, the venue they have chosen to show their wares, the price point for their product and, of course, you, the shopper. I took the time over the past three weeks to visit fairs and markets from Nanaimo to Duncan, including the Cedar
Christmas Chaos (above) and other craft fairs offer vendors to showcase beautiful, handmade items. Photo: Nadine Wong
Yellow Point Tour, the Cedar Farmers Christmas Market, Ladysmith Eagles Hall, Ladysmith First United Church, Carol’s Crafters on Cedar Road and the Christmas Chaos Market in Duncan. Generally, I don’t shop at craft fairs and markets for myself. I’m looking for gifts that can’t be found in a mall. I’m seeking
a “one-off,” high-quality, unique, handmade and affordable item. Several local crafters and artisans have shared the joys and pitfalls of preparing for and participating in local Christmas crafts fairs and markets. Most Christmas markets have the same vendors throughout the year at various
