Katharine and Isabelle Adams, founders of Paper for Water

Katharine and Isabelle Adams, founders of Paper for Water

This year’s Holiday in the Highlands promises to be the best ever, with 100 active members of Lake Highlands Women’s League (and 200 sustaining members) bringing 37 years of both tradition and new ideas to the home tour, luncheon and holiday market.

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Shhh, don’t tell anyone, but I got the secret scoop from market chairs Katie Mueller and Julie Bonahoom. Here’s your insider’s preview.

Katie and Julie shopped bazaars and boutiques far and wide to recruit the best and brightest vendors. One third of merchants are new this year, including Sweet Sentiments by Lori, which features vintage Christmas trees, framed crosses and handmade greeting cards. Choca Loca Designs will bring handcrafted leather items, personalized memory books and handmade jewelry. Jammit Jam specializes in spreadable fruit using natural sugar and a splash of libation. The business began as the hobby of a farm-loving stay-at-home Dallas mom who enjoys summers in Oregon and another friend who loves creativity in the kitchen. With flavors like “Thyme Prosecco” and “Cinnamon Bourbon,” you’ll be the most popular cook at the party.

Paper for Water sells Origami Christmas ornaments, and proceeds support water projects around the world through Living Water International. The charity was started by Katharine and Isabelle Adams, 5 and 8 at the time, who wanted to raise $500 to build a well in Ethiopia by selling handcrafted ornaments at Starbucks. Stephanie’s Stuff is old school: Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, Sock Monkeys and Cats, chef’s hat and apron sets, Teddy Bears and dominos. If you’d like to buy your child or grandchild something that doesn’t explode or connect to Wi-fi, Stephanie can help you.

Of course, also returning will be the most popular vendors from last year’s show bringing holiday favorites you’ve come to count on. Soap Girl will help you find a gift for that loved one who enjoys luxuriating with homemade soaps, masks and bath salts. Chef Milton, for your culinary friends, will bring gourmet salts and Chili-honey roasted nuts. Scarves by Theresa features hand knit scarves and shawls along with ponchos, kimonos, resort caftans and vintage clothing. Blondie Designs creates one-of-a-kind artisan jewelry pieces. Southern Initials offers personalized, embroidered items – everything from baby blankets to cell phone covers to scarves and more. Dulces Suenos brings colorful, hand-embroidered pillows.

The holiday market will be open Thursday, Dec. 3 from 1-4 and Friday, Dec. 4 from 9-3. It’s inside Highland Oaks Church of Christ, on Walnut Hill between Plano Road and LBJ. Entrance to the market is free.

Tickets to the luncheon and the home tour are available online via Ticketleap here.

Hand-embroidered pillow from Dulces Suenos

Hand-embroidered pillow from Dulces Suenos

Handmade crosses from Choca Loca

Handmade crosses from Choca Loca

Jammit! Jams

Jammit Jams