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Have a sweet time at Strawberry Tea in Colwood

Annual event a fundraiser plus a social gathering for volunteers
Strawberry-tea
Donna Brandle

It’s tea time in Colwood.

Twenty-four large cakes, 12 flats of strawberries, “lots” of whipped cream and hundreds of cups of tea served in fine China will feed the masses tomorrow (June 7) during the 31st annual Church of the Advent Craft Fair & Strawberry Tea.

“It is really very sweet,” said Donna Brandle, one of the organizers. “(The event) is based on friendship, longevity and meeting new people.”

She’s one of several people around since the inception of the function, which started with a group of young mothers looking to raise money for a church nursery, Brandle said. Today, in addition to the traditional strawberry shortcake and tea, the event includes a craft and artisan element, with 21 local crafters selling wares from pottery and woodworking, to various cards and weaving products.

“It has really had a long history. Now we are grandmothers and still hosting the tea,” Brandle said, laughing.

Committee members have been raising funds for youth programs and church outreach programs with the tea and craft fair for 31 years, she added.

The Strawberry Tea served about 300 people last year and raised about $3,000, with 50 or so volunteers contributing to the fundraising event. Brandle hopes to see the same or better result this time.

“We want to do something productive… The community comes in to have strawberry shortcake and a very traditional event. I appreciate people being able to work together and come together. I really value long-term friendships and having fun on the day.”

The cost is $6 for a large cake and tea (or beverage), or $5 for a small. The event happens from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Church of the Advent, 510 Mt. View Ave.

alim@vicnews.com



Arnold Lim

About the Author: Arnold Lim

I'm an award-winning photojournalist, videographer, producer, and director.
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