The Greens Market has been in operation every year since 1946 and this year, it promises to be better than ever. Between four and five hundred people shop at the marketplace each year, and many are return customers. “We see familiar faces, friends and family each year”, said Pat Hambleton, Greens Market co-chair. “Our club members really look forward to being a part of this exciting event and connecting with the community.”
Linda Claussen, a resident of Rochester Hills, has been attending the Greens Market since the 1980s. “It is a community event and it is not commercial in any way,” said Linda. “We have a family tradition to attend each year. There is a natural aspect to it, and the whole vibe is very nice.” Linda goes on to say “I like to look for stocking stuffers and the nice little homemade items and the treats. I also love the fresh greens they sell.”
Another Greens Market regular is Martha Kent, a resident of Oakland Township, who has been attending for at least 15 years. Martha said one of the most important reasons she keeps coming back is “it is a wonderful way to support the community. If you buy fresh greens anyway, you might as well spend your money so it goes back to the community.” She also loves the friendly, nice people who work there. “I don’t have the knack to create these lovely arrangements and crafts, and I like what the club members do. I usually come for the fresh greens, but I always look at all the other pretty things, and usually pick up something perfect for my house.”
Local businesses also have become long time customers of the Greens Market. Dick Schlecht, of Pixley Funeral Home has been buying fresh greens at the Greens Market for more than 20 years. He uses wreaths to give the business just the right decorative touch for the holidays. “The product is always fresh and well done. We have never had a complaint. They are top notch,” said Dick. He goes on to say, “I like to support the Rochester Garden Club. They do wonderful work in the community. They are highly organized and are good people to work with.” Dick uses the greens in the Pixley locations in Auburn Hills and Rochester, as well as in his own home.
The Greens Market is held at St. Philips Episcopal Church just north of downtown, on Rochester Road across from Dairy Queen. It will kick off with an Opening Gala, on Thursday evening, December 3 between 6 – 8 p.m. For a $5.00 entrance fee, shoppers can enjoy a lovely evening, enjoying snacks and beverages while shopping for beautiful handmade gifts, gourmet foods and fresh and permanent arrangements. “This is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season, and get a head start on all the shopping”, said Jane Giblin, co-chair of the event. “But don’t worry if you cannot come on Thursday evening. We will replenish our stock in time for Market Days on Friday morning.” Market Days are held on Friday, December 4 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturday December 5 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. with a $2.00 entrance fee.
Those customers looking for new ideas for their greens should plan to attend a demonstration on how to make Porch Pots presented by one of the club’s best designers. This entertaining and informational presentation will show customers how to best use the fresh greens for maximum effect. It will be held at 2 pm on Friday during Market Days.
As the regular customers know, shopping at the Greens Market means supporting the greater Rochester area. All proceeds are returned to the community in the areas of conservation, education, scholarships, horticulture therapy, and civic improvement. The club supports the Children’s Garden at Van Hoosen Farm, preschool planting programs in Rochester schools, Dinosaur Hill, Clinton River Watershed Council, college scholarships, the 4-H clubs, landscaping, annual flower plantings at parks and buildings and many other causes. The club has received civic recognition over the years for its contributions to the quality of life in our community. New members are welcome.
The Greens Market will be held on Thursday, Dec. 3 from 6 – 8 p.m. (Opening Gala), Friday December 4 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Market Days). It is at St. Philips Episcopal Church, 100 Romeo Road, Rochester MI 48307, the corner of Rochester and Romeo Roads.
Visit RochesterGardenClub.org or their Facebook page for details.
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