Christmas trees lined the entrance, giant wreaths adorned the walls, and tiny lights twinkled over silvery tables, creating a holiday mood that transformed the setting, as close to 400 guests attended the Opening Night Gala of The Christmas Company, the largest annual fundraiser for the Junior League of Orange County.
The Opening Night Gala kicked a four-day shopping extravaganza that featured more than 100 vendors. In addition, there were entertaining activities. A morning yoga event featured special guest and founder of YAS Fitness Centers, Kimberly Fowler, a tri-athlete, attorney and author of “The No Om Zone.” Girl’s Night Out featured libations sponsored by Gallo Family Vineyards, exclusive shopping, a fabulous gift bag, and even a little pampering. Zov Karamardian, owner of Zov’s Bistro and three other namesake restaurants, demonstrated the preparation of delectable dishes from her latest book “Simply Zov.”
For the youngsters, a PJs & Pancakes breakfast included fluffy pancakes, arts and crafts, and time with Santa. At the popular “Fancy Nancy” Tea Parties, author Jane O’Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser read their latest book in the “Fancy Nancy” series. Young guests enjoyed delicious sweet treats and took home a Special Edition book. The parties were hosted by A Whale of a Tale Children’s Bookshoppe.
According to overall event chair Julie Asher, The Christmas Company and its events raised $200,000 for the Junior League. The funds support collaborative projects with partner organizations, which include Second Harvest Food Bank Backpack Program, Crittenton Services Connect Program, Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) Reading Program, Olive Crest Kinship Support Services Program, The Raise Foundation Resources in Motion Program, and the League’s Bear Hugs and Bear Necessities Program, which partners with the Orangewood Children’s Foundation.
