There are many different ways to raise money. From the very typical and usual ways to new and creative ways that reaches a new audience. The Lillian Women’s Club has chosen to take the creative approach in their fundraising efforts. An approach that will appeal to those with an affinity for unique houses and Christmas decorations.

The Lillian Women’s Club has sponsored a Christmas Homes Tour every other year since 1990 as a fundraiser and a fun, unique event for the community. Six local residents that have spent time decorating and sprucing up their unique homes are the hosts of the event.

“We ask different people that we think have interesting homes,” said Joyce Sheldon, secretary and publicist for the club, which just celebrated its 50th year. They are honored to have people agree to be a part of the tour each year and typically stick with six homes.

When tickets are purchased, a map of all the locations is given. The houses can be visited in any order except for the home of Duetta Szabo and Phillip Bowers, which is planned as the last stop.

At this location, there will be refreshments, music and prizes given out based on the “lucky number” on the tickets. The Szabo/Bowers home is located on Meadow Lane off Highway 98 and referred to as a “tree house.” They have a “vintage room” with many childhood toys and an extensive record collection.

Each house is described as distinctively charming and described further as follows:

The house of Dan and Millie Freeze is located on N. Spanish Cove Drive. This house has a number of statues from other areas of the world and will be full of ginger bread houses and cookies.

Harry and Harriet Suarez live on Woodland Lane in an Acadian Style home. They own a large collection of family art, tea pots and antique furniture is a must see.

Ricky and Becky Wiggins home on Palao Drive is worth coming to for its view of Perdido Bay. This and a collection of family treasures, including hand made quilts, classic cars and other antiques add a sense of nostalgia to the home.

Water is key at the home of Jim and Jeanne Baxter on County Road 99. A screened and roofed pool and deck, along with a hot tub on another screened and roof deck are sites in and of themselves.

The inviting porch of William F. (Monk) and Sara Mannings on Bayview Drive will invite you to stay a while. Stained glass and a gazebo add to the inviting feel.

 The Christmas Homes Tour is typically well attended. The club has already had to print more tickets after starting with 140. They’re hoping to sell 200 tickets overall, and if they do it will be the most ever sold.

 “It has worked out very good for us and made good money for us, so we've continued to do it,” Sheldon said. “It’s really an enjoyable thing to see how each home is uniquely decorated. The money goes to really good causes.”

The Lillian Women’s Club has been in an existence for 50 years and puts its effort into donating to community organizations such as the library, fire department and athletic fields. They host silent auctions from time to time throughout the year, and proceeds from the home tour will go to supporting their community services

 The Homes Tour will be on Dec. 11 from noon until 4 p.m. Tickets cost just $15 and can be purchased from the Lillian Perdido Bay Library, as well as from any Women’s Club member.  Call 251-961-2113 for ticket information.