Small Business Saturday ushers in the holiday season at Stockbridge

Local Girl Scout Troop 30731 sells cookies, candy and mixed snacks.

by Diane Rockall

Despite intermittent showers, enthusiasm and a variety of opportunities reigned Small Business Saturday, SBS, on Nov. 24 in Stockbridge.

The Open Air Market began its winter market at the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church Hall with women parishoners providing lunch, Larry Guenther filling the scene with music, and vendors offering their wares.

Suzi Greenway’s and Joey Lentine’s fresh-baked goods were available, as were honey, eggs and jam from Beemers Farm. Cheese lovers enjoyed products from Steffey Farm’s ParaPara Creamery. Mouthwatering pesto and chips came from Jackie Cosner, fresh produce from Titus Farms, and maple syrup from Genie Farms. The market also dazzled with Son-in-Law hot sauce products and Sue Wireman’s woodworking. Local Girl Scout Troop 30731 sold cookies, candy and mixed snacks.

Creator and organizer of the market, Suzi Greenway, said, “We believe in the shop small philosophy and that is what we bring to Stockbridge.”

The market will take place indoors Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 9, and April 13 before returning to its summer home on the township square.

Panther Cub PTO held its first SBS craft show at Heritage School from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. There, a larger-than-anticipated array of 80 area vendors made interesting and creative pieces available for purchase to the burgeoning crowd of attendees. Vendors, PTO members, and shoppers expressed satisfaction with the inaugural event.

As always, local businesses offered special activities and sales for interested, energetic shoppers. In-store crafts for kids delighted young elves.

The day drew to a close with annual Festival of Lights activities beginning at 3 p.m. and culminating with a sparkly parade at 6 p.m.

Cheese lovers enjoy products from Steffey Farm’s ParaPara Creamery.

Son-In-Law hot sauce products whet the appetite.

Wholesome honey, eggs and jam are on hand from Beemers Farm.