Creations and Coffee highlights shopping local

Over 200 people flocked to the Tin Cup last Saturday for dozens of vendors set up selling their wares.

Tin Cup manager Shakira Willis organized the Creations and Coffee event so the community could shop for a wide variety of items in one place including jewelry, food, clothing and more.

Willis organized the event because of the challenge during the pandemic to find shops that are open and have the items they need.

The attendees were also treated to music by the Charlie Zanne Band as they perused the booths.

Margaret Munega, who was attending the event with her two children, said that this was a great event and was also chance for her to actually have something to do with her kids in this time of the pandemic.

"I have tried to find things for us to do as a family and it's been really hard with so many place being closed down, or with restrictions on where we can go because of the virus thing," said Munega. "This has been fun, looking at all the different businesses. I didn't realize how many people we have in Shafter and around here that offer such a variety of things to buy. I bought some awesome food and a couple of handmade belts that my kids love. We also bought a couple of purses. All in one event, this is great!"

Events such as this have become a way for the community to enjoy a time of fellowship and fun. It has also been a boon for local vendors who need an outlet to put their creations on display.

According to Willis, the event exceeded her expectations and she is hopeful that there will be more events to come.

"Thank you to the great vendors we had and to all of the people who attended this event," she said.