Don't miss the 62nd Annual Christmas Idea House, located on over four acres of land in Mesa!
Inside, the home has been completely transformed, and there are literally thousands of unique and handmade holiday gifts and decor for sale.
Lauri Leadley, Desert Club's Publicity Chair for Christmas Idea House told us that in January of 2019, Billy Johnson of Amberwood Custom Homes, generously decided to donate his personal home that he's lived in for 20 years.
"So, the ladies of the Desert Club split up into their committees and started working early this year on all the items that you are going to see for sale," Lauri said with a smile.
For months, Desert Club members have been creating and crafting all kinds of things like dog stockings (and other items for dog lovers), hand-made ornaments, jewelry, bath bombs, signs, pillow cases, baby and kid items, and even home-made treats!
Typically, the week before the event, the homeowner "moves out" temporarily, and the Desert Club members do their magic. We were told that about 100 people came in, brought all the goodies inside to design and decorate, and they did it all in just one day!
Our favorite room was the kitchen. There, you'll find homemade jellies, fudge, and other treats! One Oreo-frosted dessert looked like a snowman. The other looked like Santa. Each had a hand-sewn tag that read, "Even the Naughty deserve something Nice!"
You'll find all kinds of other humorous and punny items as well as extremely elegant and extravagant items. The prices are fantastic! A big slab of fudge was $6. I saw other unique items for those who like to camp for under $20!
The best part is that 100 percent of the proceeds from this event go back into local charities and provide scholarships to high school students in need. Lauri named a few of the other organizations that benefit, like Save The Family and Sharing Down Syndrome.
Lauri also shared a story with us about one of her recipients. Back in 1999, a female was given a scholarship to go to Arizona State University. After she graduated there, she got her Masters degree at Harvard University. Now, she works here in Arizona, giving back to the community that helped shape her.
This year's theme is "A Lasting Impression", one they've made for decades and will continue to make. Insiders told us though, that this might be their last year for Christmas Idea House. We sure hope not, but if it is, as we said in the introductory line to this article, you don't want to miss it!
Christmas Idea House is the primary fundraiser for Desert Club. "Together, we've raised over 2.8 million dollars... We've given almost one thousand scholarships to high school students to go to college over the years," Lauri said with warmth and passion.
IF YOU GO:
Parking is located at 3520 E. Brown Rd., Mesa, AZ. This is the Living Word Bible Church. Shuttles will take you to the actual home, located at 3818 East Brown Road, Mesa. Tickets are $10 each, and those can be purchased at the door or online.
You can go on Friday, December 6, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, December 7, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Know that the cost of admission and proceeds from the items you purchase will be donated (100 percent), to the charities mentioned above and into need-based scholarships for students. This event is also great because it offers some gift or decorating inspiration, hence the word "Idea" being in part of the name and title.
If possible, try to peek out back. The pool is stunning, and we saw four gorgeous horses!
We were sent a press release, sharing more of what to expect when entering this gorgeous home. "Anticipation grows as one enters this captivating, 10,000+ square foot home, situated in the historic citrus corridor. Built in 1998, the property captures Johnson's passion for home building and is reflected throughout every corner of this sprawling estate.
The hand-forged iron doors lead into a traditionally elegant interior design. The home features rich wood inlayed walls, a combination stone and wood floors, beamed ceilings, unequaled faux finishes, five unique fireplaces and Venetian plaster details.
Extensive under-roof exterior spaces enhance the privacy of the azure swimming pool with running fountains, surrounded by hand-laid flagstone, palm trees, and guest casita. Also located on the estate grounds are dog kennels, four horse stalls, a riding arena for his Spotted Tennessee Walkers, and a private underground target shooting range! "
Have fun!