Valentine’s Day Vendor & Craft Show in Monessen a Sweet Success Despite Bitter Cold

Last Updated on Sunday, 28 February 2016 03:59

By Jill Brown

For the first year, Shortbread City designer desserts in Monessen hosted a Valentine’s Day Vendor & Craft Show at Fire Dept. #1 Social Hall, Monessen, on Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

From Shortbread City: Pictured are (l - r): Savannah Johnson - owner’s daughter; Tiffannie Rawlins Johnson - owner; Maddi Holmes; Alaina Charavalle; and Vickie Kizzie.

Even the brutally cold weather with wind chills below zero could not keep away the people from the packed event. Tiffanie Rawlins Johnson, pastry chef for Shortbread City, said, “I feel very blessed that everyone came out in spite of the weather.”

Patron at the event Jan Runfola of Monessen, said, “I was looking forward to this for a long time, and the weather was not going to stop me.”

Vendor Cindy Newman of Tastefully Simple in Charleroi commented on the host and event, stating, “I can’t applaud her more. It’s really been a nice vendor show—a lot of foot traffic, very nice.”

Mary Kovscek of Mary Kay cosmetics agreed with the sentiment, saying, “She’s had a nice turnout and did a nice job. It’s good to support local businesses.”

Vendors featured at the craft show included: Avon; Jamberry nailcare; Junk & Disorderly in Donora; Plum Run Winery; Ripley’s Wholesome Treats (for pets) in Finleyville; a Chinese auction for gift baskets; a raffle; and much more! A big seller at the show was Shortbread City. The shop’s creamy cupcakes were going so fast, they could barely keep them in stock.

From Junk & Disorderly: Pictured are (l-r): Ashley Milton and Angela McDonough, displaying unique items, antiques, and collectibles from their store.

Bethel A.M.E. Young People’s Dept. in Monongahela was in charge of the good variety of food—breakfast and lunch. There were the following: corn fritters, sausage, hash browns, Hawaiian meatballs with rice, chili with rice, walking tacos, corn dogs, nachos, and French fries.

The exciting show was a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, with all the pastries, gifts, and good music. The host and vendors are to be commended!