|
16 May 2012
When people heard about the newest fundraiser to raise money for Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire and Rescue, some thought Bloomin’ Bazaar was similar to a garden show; but organizers, Beverly Gibbens and Carolyn Stenger want everyone to know this bazaar has nothing to do with gardening or crafts.
“This is not a craft fair,” said Gibbens. “We are bringing in 30 different vendors and stores from other areas.” Gibbens explained that it is similar to Martha’s Market but not on that enormous scale.
Both explained the layout and that it would be at Lake Monticello’s Fire and Rescue, inside the John Maple Room and outside. Vendors will include a variety of things from antiques, outdoor furniture, estate jewelry, wineries, home décor, children’s items, cooking, plants, flowers, herbs, folk art, pottery, baskets, scarves, handbags, accessories, and much, much more. The local Fluvanna SPCA will also be on hand if anyone would like to adopt a dog or cat. Gibbens has a special place in her heart for the FSPCA since her adorable three legged beagle came from there. Also, present at the event will be the Gypsy Gourmet Cake Lounge, featuring some mouth watering and decadent desserts and goodies.
“We were amazed at how quickly vendors signed up,” said Gibbens. “And many are donating items for the door prizes and raffles.”
Admission is $3. This admission fee does not include lunch, which will be provided by LMVFR. Children under 10 are free.
“Those who could not come to the event have already given $3 as a donation,” said Gibbens.
“All the proceeds from the event go to support the Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire and Rescue,” said Stenger. “The vendors keep whatever they sell but we keep the proceeds from the booth rentals, admissions, luncheon, and raffle tickets.” She adds that they decided to have this fundraiser since donations were dwindling this year for LMVFR’s annual fund drive.
They realized that Saturday (May 19), might not be the best day for it with high school and college graduations but it does run all day from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and people can come anytime during the day and bring friends and family for an outing.
It is clear that these two women and the rest of their committee of four, including Doris Ward and Kellee Eastwood are energetic and enthusiastic about their planned event, hoping this fundraiser won’t be the first and last of its kind.
“We hope this will be the first of many yearly bazaars,” said Carolyn Stenger. They agree that it was time to create something new to raise funds for LMVFR and this seemed like a one-of-a-kind event that has never been done in Fluvanna to generate funds for a worthy cause that serves an entire community and Fluvanna County.
“We needed to step up and help fire and rescue. It has been a community effort. We have worked with so many nice people, everyone helping others,” said Gibbens, recognizing those who are making the event happen and those who want to contribute.
The Bloomin’ Bazaar will be held at the Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire Department at 10 Slice Road in Palmyra.
