Exhibition grows

Bobbi Sands

CHRISTMAS in the Home will celebrate it’s tenth anniversary this year and a staggering 133 exhibitors from all around the country will take part at the Moffett on Main Lifestyle Centre this weekend.
Christmas in the Home originated in the home of Michelle Kritzinger in Walmer and when she relocated, Michelle Brussow took over.

Initially only 29 exhibitors took part.
Brussow said her vision for Christmas in the Home was two- fold.
“It’s to provide an affordable platform for artists, craftsmen and entrepreneurs to exhibit their wares and at the same time to give back to society in a significant and meaningful manner.
“It is Christmas-time and rather than charging an entry fee we have chosen to bless those in need by fulfilling a need.”
There is no cash entry fee at the market. Instead non-perishable food items to stock up the Alpha Primary School soup-kitchen, or double-knit wool will be accepted.
“They no longer form part of the government-funded school feeding scheme and many children come to school hungry,” said Brussow.
The double-knit wool will be used by the Rotary Anns of Algoa Bay for knitting projects for the benefit of the under-privileged.
Brussow said previously donations were put together with Herbert Hurd School’s collection and were added to Christmas food hampers for elderly residents.
Donne’ Frisch and Noel Sadler were two of three exhibitors who have been there since the market’s inception.
“It’s fantastic to see how it has grown,” said Frisch who will have Jam-Jams cotton shorts and strawberries for sale.
“Michelle is dynamite and has ensured Christmas in the Home has grown.
“Sometimes we are so wrapped up in our own lives we forget about those less-fortunate and having people bring foodstuffs and wool to help others, especially at this time of the year, is an excellent idea.”
Sadler said the exhibition was a wonderful platform for small businesses.
“It is a great idea to give back to the needy, but it is sad it only happens at this time of year.”
Sadler will be promoting her beauty salon and other crafts.
Asked to nominate her favourite stall Brussow said she was looking forward to all of them.
“I am always astounded by the exhibitors’ talent and innovation.”