FROM STAFF REPORTS

BIRMINGHAM – The Junior League of Birmingham’s annual holiday market will be Nov. 20-23 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center in Birmingham.

Market Noel features more than 100 vendors, including Made in the deep south, a jewelry line created by Shelby County resident Michaela Swafford.

Swafford said she is thrilled to be returning to Market Noel for her second year. While usually selling her pieces at the larger markets in Atlanta and elsewhere, Swafford said she loves “being able to sell directly to my fans and customers from my home town.”

MADE in the deep south creates one-of-a-kind pieces from vintage jewelry. Every MADE piece is unique and is adorned with a “story card” that provides its very own biography. Since designing her first piece three years ago, Swafford now sells her pieces in more than 70 stores around the country.

All proceeds from Market Noel will support the 41 community projects of JLB including Girls Inc.’s Mother-Daughter Connection and Teen Leadership programs.

General admission shopping takes place Nov. 21-23 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Highlights of the week include Market Morning featuring country music singer Sara Evans, and a book signing by Charles Ghigna and his wife Debra. Charles, a nationally renowned poet and author, and Debra recently wrote a children’s book titled “Christmas is Coming!” Both authors will be on hand to sign copies of the book.

On Friday, John Croyle of the Big Oak Ranch will be signing copies of his book, “The Two-Minute Drill to Manhood: A Proven Game Plan for Raising Sons.” Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand on Saturday for free photos with families.

Visit Marketnoel.net to purchase tickets and to review a complete listing of participating merchants and event details. Follow Market Noel on Facebook: Facebook.com/MarketNoel or on Pinterest or Twitter: JLBirmingham and #jlbmarketnoel.

The Cahaba Grand Conference Center is located off Interstate 459 on Highway 280. Parking is free. Tickets are also available at the door. All special event tickets include admission for shopping.