Marjim Manor announces vendor fair, 'Ugly Wine Bottle Sweater' contest

The Winery at Marjim Manor is hosting its annual fall vendor fair Saturday, Nov. 8, and Sunday, Nov. 9. Coinciding with the Niagara Wine Trail's "Share the Bounty" event, the winery requests donation for the Barker Food Pantry or the "Peanut Butter & Jelly Drive." Visitors over 21 years of age will receive a free wine tasting.

This year's vendors will sell a variety of locally produced items. Handmade jewelry, wreaths, cutting boards and stained glass items will be available. Nando's Pizzelle will have samples of its treats. Personal care items from Pink Zebra and Newfangled Homestead will be among the items for sale.

Now, with the holidays approaching, people think of traditions. One new event set to become a tradition at the manor is the "Ugly Sweater" contest. Many have ugly sweaters in their closets, but how about for their wine bottles? This year, the manor is sponsoring an "Ugly Wine Bottle Sweater" contest.

When customers make a wine purchase during November, they receive a kit for free. They can take it home, decorate it and return it. The manor will then judge them based on "Most Holiday Spirit," "Funniest," "Ugliest," "Best Match to a Person's Sweater" and "People's Choice" categories.

Wine sweaters and items to use to decorate will be available at the manor Sunday, Nov. 23, during regular business hours (noon to 6 p.m.).

First prize in each category is a $25 gift certificate.

Judging will take place during the Lighting of the Manor on Sunday, Nov. 30.

Festivities begin at noon and run until 5 p.m. The manor will officially light its dozen or more Christmas trees and the myriad of Chanukah menorahs.

The manor will kick off its hat, mitten and scarf drive. Customers can bring warm items for a special tree and help fill it up.

Nando's Pizzelle will again be available. Kim Seddon will play Christmas carols for a sing-a-long. Santa has been rumored to attend to hear holiday wishes.

Various wines will be personalized on the spot. 100 Windows can be renamed Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad or other holiday greetings. A couple's picture can be placed on the Pear Made in Heaven label; initials on the tree can be changed for the Applely Ever After.

Once Upon a Time, Marjim Manor's sparkling apple wine, can be personalized in many ways. Staffers can put a favorite lord or lady on the Lord or Lady of the Manor wine. The cat on the Cat's Meow can be changed to customers' special pet's visage.

Labels are $5 added to the cost of the wine.

For more information, call the winery at 716-778-7001 or visit www.MarjimManor.com.