Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN – The annual Lucan Christmas Craft Show brought 100 vendors to the Lucan Biddulph Community Memorial Centre on November 6-8, attracting shoppers and giving young entrepreneurs a chance to sell their work.
The municipally organized event has been running for more than 30 years. Vendors came from Lucan and communities across Ontario, including Grand Bend, Windsor and the Toronto area.
Abby Vandermuren, recreation co-ordinator for Lucan Biddulph, said the show brings shoppers into the community, benefiting local restaurants as well as vendors. She said shoppers were coming through steadily during the event. “It’s just the whole community that comes together to promote the show,” she said.
The market occupied three rooms, with products offered by vendors from across the province. Vandermuren said selling handmade goods is a livelihood for some participants, making events like this an opportunity to connect with customers.
Community groups also had a place at the show. The municipality offers free tables to Scouts and Guides, and space for Legion members. The Lucan Girl Guides were invited to sell cookies, while the Legion was offered space for its poppy campaign. Revenue from the show goes back to the municipality.
Vandermuren said local vendors receive priority when applications are reviewed. Organizers accept applications throughout the year, with preparations becoming busy in September.
The show has also been welcoming young entrepreneurs, who receive discounted booth fees. Some make crafts with family members, while others work independently.
Among them was 14-year-old Brynlee Anderson, who has been making epoxy resin hair clips for five years. This was her third year at the Lucan show. “I just started making them for my friends,” Brynlee said. “And then I asked my mom if I could try making them at a market, and she said yes, and then it kind of took off.” Her display included resin and fabric hair clips, along with bookmarks she began making this year. She also sells at spring markets.
Her mother said participating in markets has taught Brynlee to interact with customers, make change and calculate material costs, booth fees and profits. “As far as an educational experience, it’s been really fantastic,” she said. She added that other vendors have offered advice on running a business and encouraged Brynlee to continue.
Vandermuren said building relationships with vendors is one of her favourite parts of organizing the show. The event is expected to return on the first full weekend of November next year.
