By Barb Draper
Special to The PREVIEW
The ever-popular Russ Hill Wreath Bazaar at the Methodist Church officially opened on Monday for it’s 55th year of making wreathes and centerpieces.
This is one of the most enjoyable and worthwhile holiday traditions in our community. Each year, thousands of dollars are passed on to local nonprofit groups through the sale of hundreds of beautiful fresh wreaths and centerpieces.
Many people have come by to place orders at Community United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis St., while others attempted to reach the order desk by phone, but were unable to.
The number was incorrectly given to The SUN in last Thursday’s article. The correct phone number is 264-4538. I apologize to all who may have been inconvenienced, especially to the person whose phone number was mistakenly listed. This is the designated number used only for the bazaar. Please do not call the church office with your order.
Orders for wreaths and arrangements will be taken through Dec. 3. Keep in mind that a maximum of 500 wreaths will be made. Don’t wait too long to place your order. There will be no wreath No. 501.
There will be people at the walk-in and phone desks next week on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Any centerpieces for Thanksgiving that are still available at the “buy it now” table can be purchased Monday through Wednesday next week, but arrangements and wreaths will not be made during this time. Orders placed next week will be filled beginning Monday, Nov. 26, when the workshop crew returns from Thanksgiving break.
Small arrangements will be priced between $15 and $25. Larger ones will range from $30 to $40. Both sizes can be shipped for an additional $20.
Two wreath sizes are available. A standard wreath (approximately 25 inches wide) is $35. UPS shipping is available for an additional $20. Shipping dates can be discussed when the order is placed. There is a UPS pickup daily. An extra-large wreath (approximately 40 inches wide) is $60. Due to their size and weight, extra large wreaths cannot be shipped. Advent wreaths my also be made if an advance oder is placed.
Each wreath will be adorned with several pinecones and with a bow that can be chosen from a variety of colors. There is a wide variety of berries, colored balls and theme decorations that can be selected for custom wreaths. An additional charge will be determined according to the items selected.
Everyone is invited back to the workroom to observe the wreath-making process.
There are so many good reasons to purchase from the Russ Hill Bazaar. Perhaps foremost is the fact that all profits from the sales are distributed within Archuleta County to deserving nonprofit groups. The funds are distributed through a mini grant application process.
You can simplify your gift giving decisions, avoid standing in long post office lines and give gifts that will surely be appreciated by anyone. There is no need to worry about size, color, style, personal likes and dislikes, or duplication of gifts. As for your own wreath, you will not find one made from fresher materials or that will be as long lasting. These wreaths can often stay fresh and beautiful throughout much of the winter under normal weather conditions.
You will be purchasing tangible wreaths while at the same time you will be making tangible and intangible gifts to people in need throughout our area.
The “bazaar elves” look forward to helping you.
