I am writing to share with you one of my favorite holiday shopping traditions, which I attended this past Saturday in Wellesley, MA.  Each year, usually the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the Wellesley Hill Junior Women’s Club hosts its annual Wellesley Marketplace.  One of my good friends and I have been going to this for years together.  We love it, and it’s become a ritual for us.  There are more than 130 exhibitors from New England and beyond, and the vendors are incredible.  They make many of their goods themselves which means most of the items are priceless.  And speaking of prices, they are reasonable – and there are even some bargains…. I bought some amazing holiday gifts, including shirts and headbands with peace signs for my daughters (my 7-year old especially loves peace signs right now), earrings for my sister, “picture personalized” picture frames for my parents and a few things for myself too – like this “Lighthouse” red cedar door mat – isn’t it so whimsical and unique?  

All of the proceeds benefit charitable organizations and scholarships in the community, and so the good news is that while you are having fun shopping, you are also supporting a great cause(s).  Are there similar shopping events where you live?  If so, I would love to hear about them and spread the word.  This begs the next question - What is your favorite place to do holiday shopping?  I love the Wellesley Marketplace and shopping events like these, but I must add that Target is pretty great too…..  I can’t wait to hear from you.