For a place normally tranquil and peaceful, Caleb Village was bumping with business and activity on Nov. 22 during their annual trade show. Vendors from Humboldt and beyond showed off their wares to scores of people despite the tempestuous weather.
“It was absolutely phenomenal. We were worried about the weather, but it was absolutely perfect,” said Gail Deighton, manager of Caleb Village. “We probably had about 300 people come for sure even though the weather wasn’t good.”
Every year, Caleb Village hosts a tradeshow as one of their few large events. Since vendors from all over come to showcase their merchandise, it attracts people from outside the city as well. Moreover, opening their doors like this also gives the community a chance to tour a facility they don’t often see.
“It’s good for people to come if they haven’t been to Caleb before,” said Deighton. “They won’t come for a tour if they don’t know anyone. (Because of the trade show), they’ll come if they’re curious and might want to take a look around.”
The trade show hosted about 25 vendors and served around 100 people during the chili lunch, which was a first compared to last year’s baking table. The piano committee from Caleb Village also had a raffle table set up by the front doors so they could fundraise for piano maintenance.
Since it’s coming close to Christmas, this event also kills two birds with one stone for residents living at the village.
“This gives our residents a chance to shop because a lot of them don’t have a chance to go out shopping or even to leave Caleb. This is also a chance to shop for Christmas,” said Deighton.
According to the manager, the trade show has really grown since last year. It was sold out last year and many of the vendors had already reserved their tables for this year.
Likewise, merchants are already starting to line up for 2015.
“There were no hurdles whatsoever; it was very well done,” said Deighton. “The community support was amazing.”
