Vendors Star at Holiday Market Nov. 16

October 31, 2018

Fort Bend residents will again enjoy the opportunity to fill their (complimentary) shopping bags with handmade holiday décor, unique gifts and boutique fashions at the Riverstone Holiday Market Friday, Nov. 16, from 5-9 p.m.

The event ushers in the holiday season with signature cocktails, light appetizers and live music at The Club at Riverstone, 18353 University Boulevard. It’s elegant and fun, but the real stars are the local business owners who come out year after year, offering tasteful gifts sure to please the most discerning recipient.

Many of the 30+ vendors have been with us since our first market in 2012. Some like Sara Wear, also are Riverstone residents.

Sarah and her husband Kevin own The Wearhouse, a home apparel boutique that offers everything from small home décor, gift items such as candles and women’s clothes. The first year Sarah sold holiday decorations. Now she brings the boutique experience found at the three stores they own to the Holiday Market.

“I decorate my booth with light fixtures, mirrors — everything, “ Wear said. “We try to come out and offer something for everyone from a small gift to a cute sweater to something for the home.”

For Adriana Deplano, the Holiday Market is a way to connect with her clients.

“I work out of my home and 90 percent of what I sell is handmade,” said Deplano, owner of Tutti Bello. “I sell holiday decorations, home décor, jewelry, flower arrangements and table runners. Many of my clients are return visitors. They love to see what’s new.“

Both women enjoy the opportunity to promote their businesses to the Fort Bend community.

“I don’t advertise locally and participating in the market allows me to pick up new clients,” Wear said. “Every year, you meet new people who don’t know about your business. It’s also a good way to network. People look forward to seeing us year after year.”

Wear also loves that Riverstone gives back to the community, asking shoppers to bring canned food to donate to Second Mile Mission Center in lieu of an admission fee.

It’s the feeling of community and the uniqueness of the Holiday Market that Deplano and Wear enjoy the most.

“The ambiance is great,” Deplano said. “Everyone is nice, the vendors are friendly and everyone comes with a great attitude. The organizers are great. All of the vendors feel like they are part of the Riverstone family.”

Ready to shop? This year your ticket includes light hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails featuring Deep Eddy Vodka, a complimentary custom shopping bag while supplies last and live music.

Learn more and see our full list of list of vendors so you can make the most of this wonderful holiday shopping opportunity.