By Steve Hise

The holiday season in Simi Valley kicked off in the best way possible last weekend – with the annual Holiday Boutique at St. Peter Claver Church. If you missed it, you missed out on one of the most charming community events of the year.

A Community Gathering

There’s something special about local holiday markets. They bring together artisans, families, and community members in a way that big-box stores and online shopping just can’t replicate. The Holiday Boutique at St. Peter Claver Church embodies everything we love about community events – local talent, handmade goods, and that warm holiday spirit.

Over 70 Local Vendors

The turnout was incredible. More than 70 local vendors set up shop at the church, each bringing their own unique handmade crafts and gift items. Walking through the aisles felt like a treasure hunt – you never knew what you’d discover next.

What I Found:

The variety was impressive. From handcrafted jewelry to homemade candles, wooden décor to knitted items, the vendors showcased the incredible talent we have right here in Simi Valley and the surrounding areas.

I ended up picking up a knitted giraffe – yes, you read that right! It was so well-made and adorable that I couldn’t resist. Whether it becomes a gift or stays with me, it’s a perfect example of the kind of unique, handmade items you just won’t find at a typical retail store.

Other items I saw included:

• Hand-painted ornaments
• Custom artwork and prints
• Homemade bath and body products
• Quilts and handmade blankets
• Pottery and ceramics
• Seasonal wreaths and home décor
• Handmade children’s toys
• Vintage and upcycled goods
• Personalized gift items

The quality and creativity on display were outstanding. You could tell each vendor put genuine care and effort into their work.

Santa Was There!

What’s a holiday event without Santa? Kids (and let’s be honest, some adults too) had the chance to take photos with Santa Claus himself. The joy on the children’s faces as they shared their Christmas wishes was heartwarming.

Having Santa there added that extra festive touch that made the event feel truly special. It’s these little details that turn a craft fair into a memorable holiday experience.

Food Vendors Too

Shopping works up an appetite, and thankfully, the Holiday Boutique had that covered. Several food vendors were on-site offering everything from coffee and baked goods to savory snacks and treats.

There’s something about enjoying warm food and drinks while browsing holiday crafts that just feels right. It gave people a reason to slow down, relax, and really soak in the community atmosphere.

Why Local Holiday Markets Matter

Events like the Holiday Boutique at St. Peter Claver Church are more than just shopping opportunities – they’re vital to our community for several reasons:

1. Supporting Local Artisans

Every purchase you make at a local craft fair directly supports a local artisan or small business owner. These aren’t mass-produced items from overseas factories; these are handmade goods created by your neighbors. Your dollars stay in the community and help local creators continue doing what they love.

2. Unique, One-of-a-Kind Gifts

Tired of giving the same generic gifts every year? Local craft fairs offer unique, handmade items that you won’t find anywhere else. When you give a handcrafted gift, you’re giving something with a story – something made with care and intention.

3. Building Community Connections

These events bring people together. You run into neighbors, meet new people, and connect with the artisans behind the products. It’s a reminder that Simi Valley isn’t just a place we live – it’s a community.

4. Family-Friendly Fun

With activities like photos with Santa, food vendors, and a welcoming atmosphere, holiday markets are perfect for families. It’s a chance to get out of the house, enjoy the season, and create memories together.

The St. Peter Claver Church Venue

St. Peter Claver Church provided the perfect setting for this event. The space was well-organized, with vendors spread out in a way that made browsing easy and enjoyable. The church’s commitment to hosting community events like this speaks volumes about their role as more than just a place of worship – they’re a community hub.

Location: St. Peter Claver Church, Simi Valley, CA

The parking was convenient, the layout was accessible, and the overall atmosphere was warm and inviting. Kudos to the organizers for putting together such a well-run event.

My Experience

I spent about two hours at the Holiday Boutique, and honestly, I could have stayed longer. Every vendor had something interesting to offer, and the conversations I had with the artisans themselves added so much value to the experience.

One vendor told me about how she learned to knit from her grandmother and now creates these incredible stuffed animals (hence my giraffe purchase!). Another explained his process for creating custom wooden signs. Hearing the passion and stories behind the products made each item feel more meaningful.

The crowd was friendly and relaxed – no Black Friday-style chaos here. Just people enjoying a leisurely Saturday morning supporting local creators and getting a head start on their holiday shopping.

Tips for Next Year

If you missed this year’s Holiday Boutique, mark your calendar for next year. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Arrive Early: The best items tend to go fast, especially the really unique pieces. Getting there early gives you first pick.

Bring Cash: While many vendors accept cards, some may be cash-only. Having cash on hand makes transactions smoother.

Take Your Time: Don’t rush through. Talk to the vendors, ask about their process, and really appreciate the craftsmanship.

Bring the Kids: With Santa photos and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great outing for the whole family.

Support Multiple Vendors: If your budget allows, spread your purchases across several vendors. Every sale makes a difference to these small business owners.

Follow Vendors on Social Media: Many vendors have Instagram pages or websites. Follow them to stay updated on their new products and other events they’ll be at.

Other Holiday Markets in the Area

The Holiday Boutique at St. Peter Claver Church is just one of several holiday markets in the Simi Valley and Conejo Valley area. If you love these types of events, keep an eye out for:

• Local farmers markets with holiday themes
• School and church craft fairs
• Community center holiday bazaars
• Pop-up holiday shops at local businesses

Each event has its own unique flavor and supports different artisans and causes. The more we support these local markets, the more they’ll continue to thrive.

Final Thoughts

The Holiday Boutique at St. Peter Claver Church is a wonderful example of what makes Simi Valley special. It’s a community coming together to celebrate the season, support local talent, and find joy in handmade, meaningful gifts.

My knitted giraffe now has a place of honor in my home, and every time I look at it, I’m reminded of the talented artisan who created it and the wonderful community event where I found it.

If you went to the Holiday Boutique, I’d love to hear about your experience! What did you find? Who were your favorite vendors? And if you’ve been to similar holiday markets in the area, drop a comment and share your recommendations. Let’s keep supporting our local artisans and makers!

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Steve Hise is a Simi Valley content creator showcasing local events, businesses, and the stories that make our community special. Follow along for more Simi Valley highlights and hidden gems!

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