Thursday, October 25, 2012

Christmas Memories


Victorian Christmas Open House 2004

(NOTE:  This is what we had planned before we learned that our precious little grandaughter, Sadie, has acute myeloid leukemia.  The treatment is extensive and will last around 6 months.  Mammaw, who owns and operates this store had to close it temporarily to help out during this time.)  This will be our 9th Annual Victorian Christmas Open House at Memories Past and Present.  As I prepare for this one, I have so many pleasant memories of the past warm and wonderful events we have hosted.  It seems early, I know, to be thinking about Christmas, but I learned a long time ago that if you are in retail business of any kind, if you wait till after Thanksgiving, you have waited too long to begin.

Victorian Christmas Open House 2004 (me and my Daddy)
on the Porch

Our Christmas Open House has always been held on the second weekend in November and gets the season kicked off nicely for our customers and friends.  We have a few traditions which people have come to expect at Memories - and they involve all of our senses - sight, smell, touch, taste and hearing.  As you enter our store you immediately get a sense of belonging, warmth and welcoming - kind of like going home on Christmas Eve to be with the family.  We welcome you at the door, lightly scented holiday candles are burning, soft piano music is playing your favorite Christmas carols, and beautiful treasures are everywhere for you to see and touch!  You are welcome to stay a while, browse, visit, have a special tasty treat, and even leave with a gift!

Victorian Christmas Open House 2006
On the Porch

In the days leading up to our Open House we spend time moving all Christmas trees and decorations to the front of the store - each tree is decorated with a unique theme - and the ornaments can be selected and purchased right off the trees.  All of our vintage red, green and crystal glassware is featured among the Christmas decorations and this year we have beautiful red velvet  furnishings in our "parlor" and other "sitting room".  We start baking our delicious treats for you to enjoy and prepare our famous old fashioned hot mulled apple cider!

Victorian Christmas Open House 2007
Country Tree

Traditions - as we enter the Christmas season, we must remember the reason for Christmas which is the remembrance and celebration of the birth of our saviour, Jesus Christ!  We sing carols, go to special church services, give to local charities so that others can enjoy the Christmas season, plan family events and more!  It is true that Christmas has become very commercialized, but I choose to see it as a season for giving - showing our love for others in tangible and intangible ways.  At Memories, we like to be a part of your Christmas tradition where you can come and browse and find a special treasure for your family members and friends as a token of your love at Christmas time.

Victorian Christmas Open House 2008
On the Porch!

It gives me great pleasure each year to try to create "memories" at Memories!  Please plan to stop by our store this Christmas season and enjoy all the sights and sounds and scents.  November 16 and 17 - 10-5.  324 N. Elm Street, Henderson, KY  www.hendersonmemories.com

Victorian Christmas Open House 2009
Angel Tree

Victorian Christmas Open House 2010
Angel Tree and front dining table

Victorian Christmas Open House 2011
Front Window display!