More than 40 local businesses and vendors ventured out to the base for the first-ever Spring Bazaar May 2-3.
The bazaar, put together through the efforts of the 482nd Force Support Squadron, was held in the newly renovated Sam Johnson Fitness Center here. The Fitness Center, which is almost ready to open for business, was filled with vendors presenting their products, samples and displays for people to shop and learn about their services.
Some of the participating vendors and businesses donated door prizes ranging from $25 to $400 worth of their goods to be given away.
"Winners will be picked at random from a drawing Monday and will be contacted via phone," said Sheree Chandler, 482nd Force Support Squadron, business management specialist.
Amid the vendors at the event was an Active Duty Air Force member stationed here, who was manning a table with his father as a co-owner of Southern Iron.
"My dad and I ran our own custom iron business before I joined the military," said Airman 1st Class Greg Harmon, aerospace propulsion apprentice from the 495th Fighter Group, Det. 93 here. "When I heard about this bazaar, my dad and I wanted to bring some of our small, easy-to-ship pieces here. All the iron is hand forged to suit customers' orders for beds, chairs and tables."
Businesses offered a myriad of products ranging from decoration, crafts, health and jewelry. This gave shoppers a wide variety of items to try and unique gifts for the upcoming Mother's Day celebration Sunday.
Many shoppers at the Spring Bazaar commented on how they enjoyed the large space, variety of products, and convenience of having the event on base.
"I would love to come to another event like this," said Amanda Higgs, Jamberry Independent Consultant who had a booth in the bazaar. "Letting people try out my product is drumming up interest in my business."
Chandler said the 482nd FSS plans to hold more events like this for Team Homestead to enjoy. An official opening of the Fitness Center is also being planned and will be announced soon.