The season for holiday shopping is upon us again. It’s time to start thinking about a gift list — what to buy for loved ones, friends and business associates, not to mention gifts for teachers, housekeepers and all the people who helped you and your family in various ways this year. It’s only 77 days until Christmas and 58 days until Hanukah — so scribble a list and plan a budget.

Begin your shopping this weekend at the Metropolitan Community Club (MCC) Fall Craft Show. The organization is holding Potomac’s first show of the season, giving shoppers an opportunity to purchase one-of-a kind gifts while helping local charities. This 10th annual Fall Craft Show will be held at the Potomac Presbyterian Church, 10301 River Road in Potomac (next to Potomac Elementary School) this Friday, Oct. 16 and Saturday, Oct. 17. The hours of the show are Friday from 5 - 9 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Some of the Montgomery County charities that will benefit from the MCC member’s work and dedication are Mobile Medical Care, Inc.; Team River Runner; Nourish Now; METAvivor (Metastic Breast Cancer Awareness); CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates); Transformations of Montgomery County, Inc.; and Tree-Mendous Maryland.

“MCC wants to support local charities and keep our funds right here in Montgomery County,” MCC member Susan Magafan said. “We are providing a wide variety of support to families, women and Wounded Warriors through advocacy and healthcare programs as well as helping to keep our county green and beautiful.”

Vendors will provide a wealth of shopping prospects. Wendy Simon of “Show What Is In Your Heart” will display her customized jewelry. Health and wellness needs can be met at “It Works.” Ibhana Women’s Clothing offers the latest in women’s fashion apparel while “Fearless Threads” will present handbags and accessories. Silpada Jewelry and Stella and Dot will be providing the perfect opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind jewelry and accessories.

Fox Meadow Design is coming to the show just in time for Halloween, with decorations to delight Trick-or-Treaters. One of the most popular booths year-after-year is called “Greek Sweets.” Bessie Ioakim bakes and sells fresh baklava, kouklakis, crescent cookies, fig jam and more. A new vendor this year will be hand-crafted pens created by Moonlighting Pens.

The MCC was founded as the Junior Suburban Women’s Club in 1974 under the umbrella of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. When most of the members became 40 years old, they knew it was time to move on as members of a General Club. However, the members wanted to remain together and thus, in 1988, they reincorporated their club as MCC. The club has remained involved in contributing to the community in many ways.

“One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the Craft Show are donated to our charities. We hope the community will come out to shop for deserving local causes who are making a difference in our community,” Magafan said.