Nicci is a local South Surrey Artist who has participated in many art and craft events over the years, including Circle Craft and Christmas on 24th. She tell me, “By being involved in such shows I have learned what helps make a show successful in terms of advertising, location, the selection and variety of vendors/products and having those extra little treats for your customers and vendors alike to make them feel welcome and appreciated.”

Nicci explains that in 2007 she established the Creative Finds Event Planning Company and began organizing her first show. I’ve seen first hand how this show is a real family event.  Nicci says, “My Mom bakes goodies for our vendors and greets customers at the front door, my husband helps me with the website and setting up/taking down the show (good thing he has muscles), my son who announces the opening and closing of the show each day, as well as manning his own table of treats and cards (he sold out last year), and last but not least my Niece who helps greet the customers and assists our son with his table. We also have a couple of great friends who have been with us each year greeting customers, etc… ”   New this year, and keeping in the family spirit, Nicci has a ‘husband/tired friend resting area’ on the upper level where she will also have colouring sheets for the children.

With over 25 vendors selling locally handmade quality gifts, here is a wonderful variety this year. You’ll find are pottery,  greeting cards, wooden pens made from the fallen trees at Stanley Park, holiday decor, stocking stuffers, knitting, jewelry & accessories and more!  There is a good mix of new and repeat vendors to keep the show fresh for the customer year after year. Check out the full list of vendors and view a few sample photos of their work to whet your fine craft appetite and plan your shopping.

I asked Nicci which vendor she considers to be her “special find”. Personally, I love the knitted hat pictured here. Vendor JLee Arts will be selling them at the show and you can bet Santa is bringing one to my sweet Mattea this year!

Nicci assured me that she is always on the lookout for something new and unique. She says, “It is my quest each year to find that something interesting and eye catching to bring our show into the forefront of creativity and help inspire others to reinvent or expand on their existing products.”

Nicci has gathered all these ‘creative finds’ in one place so that we can find or own treasures. Mark your calendars!  $1.00 entry also gets you entered in to the door prize gift basket draw! Nicci reminds us to please bring our own cloth shopping bags.

Check their website, follow them on twitter and visit their Facebook page for show specials!