Vendors showcase goods at 2022 Mentor Senior Center Arts and Crafts Show
Nov. 20—Rows of vendor booths and the sound of holiday music filled much of the Mentor Senior Center on Nov. 19 as it hosted its first Arts and Crafts Sale since 2019.
One of those vendors, Terri Reichard, said she has been coming to the event for almost 12 years. She brought fleece blankets and memory animals from her business Wrap Them With Love, carrying various patterned designs including football teams, a Harry Potter house and camouflage.
She said that her blankets include materials from Jo-Ann Fabric and Crafts and a custom knot, which she designed after experiencing uncomfortable tags on a blanket. The memory animals are made to honor people who have passed away, using their shirts and other items on top of pillows or bear, dog or rabbit designs.
"They do a very good job here," Reichard said, adding that her previous experiences at the event have been "awesome."
She added those interested in purchasing her products can reach out to her at 440-220-2141.
Vendor Lori Spuzzillo said that she was introduced to crafting by her friend Laura Lee Kowalcic. The two of them brought decorations including pine cones, ornaments, angels, framed paper art, skunks and gift card holders.
"We have known each other my whole life," noted Spuzzillo, who said Kowalcic was her mother's neighbor.
Spuzzillo added, "We enjoy our time together, our crafting time."
Various forms of jewelry and light-up decorations were among the products offered by second-time vendors Kim and Cheryl Gebeau. Kim noted that for them, crafting is a way to keep busy.
"She loves making her jewelry," Kim said, noting that Cheryl brought items including necklaces, keychains and earrings. Kim brought light-up snowflakes and stars, as well as pins and cork-based projects.
A first-time vendor, Carol Offak, came with old Christmas decorations that she sold to raise money for the St. John Vianney food pantry.
"They're all things from Christmas past, and a lot of people, especially the older people, might enjoy it because it's something they've seen in the past," she said.
Other vendors brought items including holiday decorations, quilts, books and more.
According to Mentor Senior Center Recreation Coordinator Dave Duricky, around 60 vendors turned out for the sale, with food and drinks also available. While seniors were given first priority in reserving vendor space, people of all ages were invited to showcase their wares and browse vendor goods.
