PHOTOS: Solheim Christmas Boutique Bonanza For Vendors, Visitors

The annual Solheim Lutheran Home Spirit of Giving Christmas Boutique at the Solheim Lutheran Home on Sunday attracted some 150 people who got an early start on kicking off the holiday season. The dining hall and fountain garden of the residential home, which will celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2013, was lined with wall-to-wall tables on which 20 vendors displayed a variety of wares made by local artists and crafters. 

From jewelry, knitted goods and stained glass treasures to greeting cards and hand-made pottery, the boutique offered a terrific opportunity to get the holiday shopping done in one place—and support local business.

The smell of fresh-baked cookies and crepes filled the air as visitors sipped hot cider and cocoa in the dining room, while listening to live music played by pianist Brad Steed and songs by the Hill Avenue Grace Lutheran Singers. Outside, Burke Steed entertained guests in the fountain garden guests with delightful classical guitar and mandolin music.

Besides being a great way to shop locally, the Christmas boutique raised much-needed funds in support of seniors at the Solheim Lutheran Home.

“This is one of my favorite boutiques,” one returning vendor told Solheim Development Director Tina Antypas. “The people are so friendly, the atmosphere so welcoming and warm it puts you in the holiday spirit—and keeps you there.”