A few years back, a dear friend invited me to join her at the Junior League of Orange County’s annual Christmas Company fundraiser for a holiday shopping adventure. She said it was a best-kept shopping secret, so, egged on by her glowing endorsement and a shopping list down to my knees, I figured if it was a bust I would simply buy a little something to support Junior League and the vital charities they support.
As we perused the mini-boutiques set within the large but comfortable tent, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety and unique, quality finds in each. Ladies, and more men than I would have expected, some with wine in hand, looked to be thoroughly enjoying the scene that even included Charles Dickens carolers strolling through the crowd, making for a very festive environment indeed.
Not only did I get most of that list checked off, I found some nifty finds for moi, including the softest, most comfy spa-style robe I have ever owned.
The best part about my original visit to The Christmas Company is that getting through that holiday list no longer causes me to break out in hives. In fact, shopping there has become a tradition with my friend that we look forward to every year. Discriminating shoppers, have no fear, you will not be disappointed!
This year’s theme is a warm and fuzzy “A Home-Cooked Holiday,” and though it actually started yesterday, it continues through Sunday until 6 p.m. at the OC Fair and Event Center on Fair Drive at the 55 Freeway.
A host of special events including tastings, demonstrations and book signings will be held throughout the weekend, including one on Saturday featuring the charismatic Zov Karamardian, owner of ever-popular Zov’s Bistro. You can find a list of all of the vendors and events at ShopTCC.com.
The Christmas Company is now in its 36th year and is the largest annual fundraiser for the JLOCC, attracting more than 10,000 shoppers annually. This weekend’s event brings together more than 90 unique vendors from across the U.S., with proceeds going to benefit Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), Orangewood Children’s Foundation, Crittenton Services for Children and Families, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Olive Crest.
Originally established in 1956 as the Newport Harbor Service League, the JLOCC is a member organization of the Association of Junior Leagues International Inc. in Newport Beach. Solely an educational and charitable organization, the JLOCC’s trained volunteers actively support the community through collaboration with organizations that promote and support the health, safety and education of all individuals in Orange County.
General admission tickets for The Christmas Company are $10 each, and will be available for purchase at the door, online at ShopTCC.com or by calling 949-263-3785. For more information about JLOCC, visit jlocc.org or call 949-261-0823.
