For some people, it’s never too early to start planning for Christmas.
Jim Brubaker is one such Christmas aficionado. The owner of Jim Brubaker Designs, Inc. and its gift shop, JBD Home, has a soft spot when it comes to Christmas.
“I just love the happiness,” he says. “To me, it’s a good time of year to celebrate. And this year, I have a new grandbaby, so it’s going to be even better.”
Every year, JBD Home hosts a “Holiday Open House” to welcome the Christmas season. Behind the scenes, Brubaker and his staff are already planning away for this year’s event to take place Nov. 6-9 at 909 Lawrence Drive, Fort Wayne.
Shoppers are inundated in holiday décor from the moment they enter the open house. There are special discoveries in every corner, including ornaments, artificial arrangements, wreaths, flags, garlands, accessories, Christmas lighting and more.
“The atmosphere is just overwhelming,” Brubaker describes. “When you walk in the front door, you’ll feel like it’s Christmas. I mean, it just really hits you.”
Despite the event’s small show room, Brubaker and his team spend several weeks setting up for the open house. Pictures don’t even do it justice, Brubaker says.
During the event, shoppers can find a plethora of quality items for a great price, including special discounts on Christmas ornaments – something Brubaker is particularly fond of.
“I still give a special ornament to my daughter every year, and she’s 43 now,” he says. “She has pretty much every one I have ever given her. They get a special spot on the tree, and I have customers who do the same thing with their families. It’s a memory you imbed in your kids’ heads that they cherish throughout time.”
All throughout the year, JBD Home specializes in unique indoor and outdoor home décor, from furniture and lamps to fountains, planters and more. Current hours are Wed. to Fri. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Brubaker has worked with plants and people all of his adult life, first as a florist and later as the co-owner/president of a local landscape design company. He opened Jim Brubaker Designs with his late wife, Vicki, in 2008.
If you spot him at the holiday open house, be sure to say hello.
“I hope everybody leaves with joy in their heart,” Brubaker says.
For more information, call (260) 436-3639 or visit jimbrubakerdesigns.com.
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