Tybee Island Gets into the Holiday Spirit with Tree Lighting and Holiday Market
Tybee Island, Georgia, is buzzing with holiday cheer as the community comes together for its beloved annual Christmas tree lighting and festive holiday market. This heartwarming event marks the official kick-off of the holiday season, all while celebrating Small Business Saturday, and it didn’t disappoint! The streets were filled with laughter, joy, and the sweet aroma of festive treats as both locals and visitors gathered to enjoy the festivities.
A Family Reunion Vibe
Many attendees described the atmosphere as a big family reunion, with smiles and hugs shared between friends and neighbors. Kaylee Hettenbaugh, a local business owner and artist of Mirror Image Fishburning, expressed her delight saying, “Tybee’s like just one big family, so just having so many reasons to get together in the off season and just be around each other is wonderful.”
Ashley Flynn, owner and artist of Alchemy in the Sea, resonated with Hettenbaugh’s sentiment, adding, “It’s nice that once the season finally wears off a little bit, there’s kind of that hibernation where we can all just be together.” Her words reflect the warmth of community spirit that permeated the air on that lovely evening.
Unique Local Artisans Shine
Among the many talented vendors at the holiday market, Hettenbaugh and Flynn stood out, showcasing their unique creations that represent the island’s rich culture and artistry. Hettenbaugh explains her craft, saying, “I start with a real fish, paint it with ink, and then press rice paper on top,” creating stunning pieces that capture the beauty of marine life.
On the other hand, Flynn’s handmade jewelry tells a story of its own, “I use copper from historic Savannah homes that have been torn down in my work.” Her jewelry shines not just as beautiful accessories but also as pieces that hold a deep connection to the region’s history.
A Day of Joy and Community Support
Both artisans are excited to have participated in the holiday market for the second consecutive year. Flynn shared her enthusiasm: “I think it was still really good energy and a lot of fun. I had a great day, so I’m happy to be back and hopefully we’ll be back again next year.”
Hettenbaugh echoed her sentiments, voicing her appreciation for the event: “I love that Tybee puts this event together so that all of us can come together in one place, making it easy for our customers to come down here and enjoy the day on Tybee.”
The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses
Both women emphasized the significance of supporting small businesses during the holiday season and beyond. Flynn remarked, “If you really like having your little boutiques and your little shops in your community, it’s really important to continue to support those small businesses.”
This community-focused spirit is essential, especially during the festive season when local businesses rely on the support of residents and visitors alike. Events like the Tybee Island holiday market not only foster community ties but also encourage shoppers to make a conscious effort to shop local.
Tis the Season of Togetherness
As Tybee Island embraces the holiday season with open arms, the tree lighting and holiday market reflect the essence of what makes this community special. It’s about coming together, celebrating love and friendship, and lifting each other up by supporting local artisans. With plenty of good vibes and an array of handcrafted goods, it’s clear that Tybee Island is ready to spread some holiday cheer.
