​2024 Festival of Trees
​Designer Guidelines 
  • Deadline for an entry is November 19, 2024.  We need all information by that date. This includes the 15 word description, name of item & suggested retail value. After that date, the space you require and time needed to prepare the necessary paperwork may not be available.
  • Non-tree entries may be artificial, natural or live. We recommend artificial trees only.
  • Setup times will be on:   Tuesday December 3rd  from 3 - 6 pm
                                                      Wednesday December 4th from 5 - 8 pm
  • Please plan your set-up time so that your item is finished within the designated 6 hours allowed.
  • Your tree may be selected to be placed in Hardy Hall this year.  We are expanding to that area if necessary.
  • Please be aware your entry item may have to be moved from your original spot due to spacing and/or aesthetic issues. If this is necessary, we will be as careful as possible.
  • Each entry’s designer will be clearly identified by signage placed by their entry.
  • Each entry will be numbered with a corresponding bid sheet. Bids will be accepted during the time the festival is open to the public. Each item will also have a minimum bid.
  • You will be asked to fill out a “special instruction” information sheet at setup. This should include such things as operation of lights, special transport instructions,, everything that is included with the entry, etc.
  • If your entry item has lights they may be left on for the entire event.
  • Successful bidders will be determined on Saturday December 7th at 8 pm.
  • Winning bidders will be notified by text/phone. All items are to be picked up by 12:30 pm Sunday Dec 8th. 
  •  There will be a People’s Choice Award. This is a public vote done with can goods- one can equals one vote. Winner announced on Saturday night.  Goods donated to local food pantries.  Because of setup space limitations, designers are asked NOT to bring any canned goods until Chamber Untapped or open to the public hours starting at 1:00pm on Friday.
  • This year Festival of Trees & Holiday Decor winners will be chosen in five (5) categories by judges at the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce Untapped Event on Thursday Dec 5th.
    •  There will be three categories for trees 4ft and up. They are:
1. Business/Commercial  2. Nonprofits  3. Individuals.
  • There will be a 3’ or less tabletop tree award
  • There will be a Best Wreath or Non-Tree item award          
  • Each of these categories  will be judged on a scale of 1 thru 10 points on each of these items -  A. Originality  B. Workmanship  C. Eye Appeal  D. Best use of Holiday theme.
  • There will be a Winner & a Runner-Up  in each of the five (5) categories. Total of ten (10) awards.
  • If your tree does not receive a bid, we will honor your wishes as filled out on the Designer registration form.  If not filled in, we will donate the item.
  • This has been a very successful fundraiser event for worthy nonprofits in Manistee County. Because it is a charity fundraiser we have decided to not make any winning bid  amount public. We suggest that if you are interested in what your item made for charity, check out the bid sheet on Saturday night before the auction closes.
Lakeside Club appreciates our supportive community. We would not be able to be as successful in helping great nonprofits in our area without you. THANK YOU for your support!
 
                                     More information, questions, or to register online
                                     Visit our website: www.lakesideclubmanistee.org,
                                           email: [email protected],
                                                   or Call Deb Green (906) 440-6770                                                Updated 8-20-2024
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Possible Judges Choice Award   - The same criteria but “ something the judges think is extra special.