Local writers, vendors, cooks, seamstresses and jewelry designers gathered Friday for the Knights of Columbus Council 6872 Ladies Auxiliary 2nd annual Marketplace in Picayune. The event continues today.
Auxiliary member and Marketplace coordinator Marion Hebbler said this event is an annual fundraiser for the organization.
“We support a number of community charities, including the senior center and the Sav-A-Life pregnancy center,” Hebbler said. “This year we have 27 booths and room to grow next year.”
Vendors had the option of renting a table or booth, Hebbler said. This year, shoppers can peruse children’s clothing items, local authors’ books, jewelry, stained glassware, Easter items, purses, homemade jams and much more, Hebbler said.
“A craft fair is a fun way to raise money,” Hebbler said. “Each of our vendors receives a complimentary lunch.”
Angelina Ryals from Picayune made homemade jellies to sell during the two-day event. The name of her booth is Angry Al’s. She offers samples of her various flavors, which include hot pepper, strawberry, blueberry and hot strawberry.
“This is my second year here and I enjoy supporting our local ladies auxiliary,” Ryals said.
Don McKenna crafts wind chimes from recycled bottles.
“It’s a hobby,” he said. “I also etch glass. The ladies auxiliary does good work for this community.”
Debbie Callens, is an independent Thirty-One Gifts director and said this was her first year to rent a booth.
“Our company is all about supporting women and what they do,” Callens said. “They are a wonderful group of ladies who do great things for this community.”
The Marketplace will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today at the Knights of Columbus building located at 408 Carroll St.
Anyone interested in renting a booth space for next year can contact Hebbler at 601-749-8317 and through email at mhebbler@bellsouth.net.