The City of Hazelwood Parks and Recreation hosted its Hazelwood Holiday Craft Bazaar on Nov. 13.  

The Hustler family was among the people who headed to the Hazelwood Community Center to get into the spirit of the season.

"We figured we'd spend some more time together after my son Miles' soccer game," Katie Hutsler said. "We thought the craft bazaar was a perfect idea." 

Hutsler's own mother came along; so did sons Miles, 7, and Joe, 2, who was giggly and somewhat antsy as local artist Brian Hassler sketched the toddler's portrait in charcoal.

Hassler said this year was his fourth as a vendor at the bazaar.

"I'm enjoying the crowds," he said. "Although I love drawing portraits for people of all ages, older generations are my favorite to characterize because they're always so interesting to me."

Chris Reyfield has been bringing her handcrafted dolls, ornaments and other unique items to the bazaar for nearly 20 years, since the annual event's debut. Many of her wares are Christmas-themed. Her best sellers – and, incidentally, her favorite items to make – are Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. 

"The idea (of the bazaar) is to bring out some holiday cheer just as the holidays begin to approach," said Hazelwood Recreation Supervisor Jill Arnold. "Sponsoring this event every year is our way of supporting and helping local artists and craftsmen and we love doing it."