SAFFORD — A new Gila Valley holiday tradition was started Thursday evening.
Copper and Cotton Lifestyle Co. held an Early Christmas Reveal, giving VIPs a chance to see the store newly decorated for the holidays, as well as the first opportunity to purchase items from upward of 80 different local makers and entrepreneurs.
The special event echoed the tradition of shoppers lining up to see the Gingerbread House when that store redecorated for the holiday.
“We’re excited to bring it back, not only to the Gila Valley, but right on Main Street where all the community events kind of thrive and are centrally located,” said Taylor Ludwig, co-owner of Copper and Cotton Lifestyle Co.
Tickets to the exclusive event were $20, with all ticket proceeds going to help the Monster Exchange on the Thatcher campus of Eastern Arizona College.
“So grateful that Copper and Cotton decided to help us out,” said EAC’s Patti Wren. “Tricia (Garrett, co-owner of Copper and Cotton Lifestyle Co.) has always been a supporter of everything that I’ve been able to do at the college.”
The Monster Exchange, which serves students in need with food, clothing, toiletries and personal items, recently announced bare shelves, despite there being a month remaining in the semester. Wren said a few donations have started to trickle in, but more help is needed.
Garrett said she’s anticipating a busy holiday season as residents focus on shopping local.
“We have lots of Downtown events, lots of things happening in the store so, yeah, fun events coming up all season,” she said.
Copper and Cotton Lifestyle Co. is open Wednesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
The Monster Exchange is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to receive donations.
