Saturday, November 5, 2011

Meet Karin of Sunset Gems

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Karin of Sunset Gems

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

I make jewelry with semi-precious stones, crystals and sterling silver, pewter and copper

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.
I am a professional faux finisher (decorative painter) by trade and have been doing this for approximately 20 years. Always having had a love of all things nature, I decided to try my hand several years ago with making gemstones...some that I even mined myself!...into jewelry. It is a passion that actually started when I was a little girl and my dad brought home a box of beautiful polished gemstones from one of his many travels abroad. I've always been fascinated by natural beauty in colors of stones, sunsets, clouds, flowers, etc. If something I put together doesn't “flow”, I have to start over and it isn't complete until it looks like something I just couldn't live without! My greatest inspirations are people I have known and love, places I have been in my life and the animals that are some of my favorite little companions (yes, we have seven furry little kids!!). My husband, mother and step-father are my biggest supporters and usually one of them accompanies me to my shows and gemstone hunts. My sister, who sadly succumbed to a short battle with breast cancer in 1998, was also a huge support and inspiration to me and several of my pieces have been named after things that remind me of her! I hope that people enjoy wearing my pieces as much as I enjoy making them!!
Thanks Karin!  Check out more of Karin's work at:

Friday, November 4, 2011

Meet Marilyn of Weber Farms

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Marilyn of Weber Farms

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Goat milk soap, goat milk lotion, lip balms, lotion bars, salves, candles, baby products and much more!

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.
 
Our hobby farming start came almost 20 years ago with our teenage daughter wanting to compete with 4H dairy goats.  We found that we could not drink the milk - it was very strong.  Since we had store bought goat milk, we thought this was how goat milk should smell and taste.  We learned to make goat milk soap with the milk we had.  Wonderful, unscented goat milk soap.
 
Fast forward a bit and we were transplanted to Kentucky.  We had a son that was allergic to Kentucky "and everything else".  We purchased goats again - this time Alpines.  We quickly learned that the sagebrush the other goats were eating were what made the milk unusable except in soap and maybe cheese.  These goats and a sick little boy transformed our lives. 
 

We starting searching out answers to why this child was sick and what we could do about it.  We found that is was our "food" and products we purchased that was causing us all so many  health concerns.  Now we grow almost all of our own food and make all of our products with your health in mind too.  We use untainted milk, beeswax and honey, herbs and oils from our small farm; along with some certified organic, sustainably grown additions to make the products that we offer for sale. 
 
Marilyn was the first licensed cosmetic manufacturer ever in the state.  Kentucky is one of the very few states that require such stringent guidelines as to how/where you can make product.  All of our product is now made in Versailles, KY in a commercial kitchen.
 
As Pat would say, Weber-Farms.com - "To Your Health."


Thank you so much Marilyn!  Check out Weber Farms on Facebook or visit their website at:

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Meet Kate of Sweet Pea Murals

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.


Kate of Sweet Pea Murals and MORE!

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?


At the fair, I will be offering “mini murals” - an assortment of canvases and plaques that range from inspirational quotes to seasonal decoration, and of course, i am always happy to take orders for personalized items! (these are my favorite and shipping to you is free!) Most of my artwork is specifically custom made for children, but I have a few things for adults too :)

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I am the mother to one 5 year old sweet pea! I started this company when my little one was born back in 2006. I wanted THE perfect baby nursery and decided that I would try painting something special for her. After all, I had been drawing and painting most of my life and I had a degree from one of the best art colleges in the country (Ringling College of Art and Design). So how hard could it be?! It turns out, I really enjoyed doing this project and the comments from family and friends about her room were all so positive. I could definitely get used to doing things like this but I only had one child and only so many walls in my house!


Eventually, I expanded on my love of painting walls and started doing “mini murals”  This was a great way for me to share my creativity with clients who weren’t local and/or didn’t want something quite so permanent. So here I am now, making cute spaces and ‘ready to hang’ art for other little sweet peas and loving every minute of it!

Thanks Kate!  Check out more of her fabulous work at:

You can always find me on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/sweetpeamurals
My etsy shop is currently on vacation while I prepare for the craft show but I can also be found online at my blog: http://spmurals.blogspot.com or my newly redesigned website: http://www.sweetpeamurals.com

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Meet Kristen of Adorable You

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Kristen of Adorable You
2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Handmade Hair Bows

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I have three beautiful little girls who love to have their hair done up with bows.  After spending a ton of money on accessories I took matters into my own hands and started making them myself.  I custom make any bow with your favorite colors or design.   This is a great way to show off your team or school colors.


Thanks so much Kristen!  We'll see you at the Fair!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Meet Jamie of The Sunday Flower

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.
My name is Jamie Doan, and I run The Sunday Flower, an Etsy shop.

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

My specialty is paper flowers, done in the kusudama style of origami. I'll have all kinds of these flowers available at the fair -- arrangements in vases/containers, a la carte stemmed flowers, unstemmed flowers, holiday decor flowers and wedding items. I'll also have other paper goods, such as cards, gift tags and cupcake wrappers. You might even see some handmade fabric buttons and jewelry at my booth.

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.
I started making paper flowers to use as centerpieces for my own wedding (which took place Sept. 9, 2011), and fell in love with how great they look in so many settings. "Paper flowers" might not sound durable, but these are surprisingly strong, helped by the fact the flowers are made from sturdy acid-free cardstock. They're sure to last you a long time, and are great for anyone who has allergies or a "brown" thumb.

Thank you so much Jamie!  Head on over to Jamie's etsy shop and blog!




Monday, October 31, 2011

Meet Melissa of Night Owl Crafts

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Melissa of Night Owl Crafts

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Jewelry, Collages, Jewelry Holders

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I have two associates, one in Fine Art and one in Art History.  I am so happy to have a hobby that allows me to utilize my artistic side.  I love knowing people all over the world are wearing pieces that I have made!  Selling handmade crafts has created a network for me of such talented, kind, and creative people.  My jewelry is a mixture of vintage and new components.  I spend hours mixing and matching findings and coming up with the perfect design.  I enjoy telling customers about the history of each piece and how some beads came from Japan in the 1950s but the pendant is new from a shop in California, etc.  It really makes you realize how unique and special handmade jewelry is and that it truly is one of a kind art!



Thanks Melissa!  Follow the links below to see more of Melissa's work.





Sunday, October 30, 2011

Meet Terri of Cutey Patoot

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Terri Fleener of Cutey Patoot

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Baby Couture Clothing and Accessories - My creations are intended for the truly fabulous! My mission is to make your little fashionista funky, utterly unique and most of all fantastically fabulous!!

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I'm a stay at home Mom with a nearly 4 year old little boy and a 7 month old baby girl.  I love all things frilly.  The more ruffles the better!  I love designer clothing and purses.  My passion aside from my beautiful family is to create fun, trendy yet classic items. All of the products I make show creativity and help express a desire  to be one of a kind.

Thanks Terri!  Check out her etsy site at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CuteyPatoot


Saturday, October 29, 2011

Meet Christina of Latreia Designs

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Christina Bohn of Latreia Designs

 

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Original oil paintings inspired by nature and romance
Prints and paper goods

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

Since moving to Kentucky a year ago to attend seminary, I have been very stimulated to paint the beautiful countryside right outside my backyard. Art brings me so much joy and it is only natural for me to want to share that joy with others. When I am not busy manipulating color in my studio, I enjoy running, writing, reading, and conversing with friends over coffee.

Thanks Christina!  Check out more of her work at:

Friday, October 28, 2011

Meet Joyce of J. Sarnelli Hot Glass Studio

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Joyce Sarnelli of J. Sarnelli Hot Glass Studio

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Stained glass pins, lampworked beads, fused   dichroic pendants, lampwork beaded bracelets and necklaces, copper, brass & bronze clay pendants…. Framed fused glass wall art, whimsical hand painted single serve cocktail pitchers, candles


3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I am a self taught stained glass, glass fusion & lampwork bead artist. I have been practicing my craft since 2000.  I use my lampwork beads as the focal bead in my jewelry designs.

Thanks Joyce!  Keep up to date with Joyce at her links below:

www.jsarnellihotglassstudio.biz
(includes some photos and a blog as well as facebook favorite)

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Meet Deanna of Mirabelle Creations

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Deanna Talwalkar of Mirabelle Creations

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Party Paper Collections – I make custom and personalized party paper goods, such as cupcake toppers, place cards, food labels, water bottle labels, thank you tags, invitations and party banners.  At the Fair, I will be selling a few samples of my party collections, including holiday collections.  I will also take orders for personalized and/or custom party packages.  

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I’ve always loved a great party!  One of my first party memories as a child was my mom making a me a Strawberry Shortcake cake for my birthday.  I adored that cake, probably even more than any present I received!  

Once I had my own children, I spent months planning their parties.  The special, handmade touches gives parties that special touch.  After much encouragement from friends and family, I decided to make a business out of my passion.  

Mirabelle Creations blog was started in April 2011 and the Etsy store opened in August 2011.  My goal is to create beautiful parties with a hint of southern charm!

Thanks Deanna! Can't wait to see you at the Fair!  Visit Mirabelle Creations at:

www.mirabellecreations.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/dtalwalkar
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mirabelle-Creations/202684699763625


 






Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Meet Julie of One Little Band

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Julie of One Little Band


2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Baby/toddler headbands, flower headbands, wedding shoes, and bridal hair accessories.

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

This is my first time as a vendor at a Fair and can’t wait to meet the other vendors and all my fabulous fans!

Thanks so much Julie!  Be sure to check her out on etsy and Facebook at:

www.onelittleband.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/onelittleband

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Meet Cristin of Hazelnut Designs

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Cristin Wilson of Hazelnut Designs
2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

I will be showcasing sewn fabric items such as bunting banners, fabric shopping bags, pieced pot holders, hand towels, mug rugs, zipper pouches... and some baby goodies such as burp cloths, drool bandanas, and baby leg warmers... maybe some baby clothing too!

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I hail from Columbus, Ohio but my little sister, Carla, lives in Northern KY and is my right hand girl for craft shows!

My little guy, Eli,  will be at the Birds of a Feather Fair so look for him to be running around my booth!  He's 1 1/2 and cute as a button.


Thanks so much Cristin!  You can find more of Cristin's work at:

Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hazelnutdesigns/

Monday, October 24, 2011

Meet Beth of Beth Toner Designs

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.

Beth of Beth Toner Designs


2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

Handcrafted & designed stationery

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I am a very lucky mom of two beautiful boys. They keep me VERY busy but we always have fun. I quit my design job to stay at home with my first son and to keep my creative side satisfied I started doing wedding invitations, videos, and party invites. This eventually turned into stationery and craft shows. I love being a part of the special events in people's lives and I'm so thankful and honored when people ask me to create things for them.

I also love baking and throwing parties. It's such a thrill to create a fabulous atmosphere that makes that special event more memorable for years to come. I believe that it's all about the little details in life. 

Thanks for reading and hopefully I'll see you at the show.


Thanks Beth!  You can see more examples of Beth's work at:


Also search for Beth Toner Designs on Facebook!

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Meet Kelly of Decadence

1.  Please tell us your name and the name of your business.
Chocolate, sugar, and creativity - three of my favorite things in life!  My name is Kelly Gindele, and I am the owner of Decadence.

2. What can shoppers expect to see at the Birds of a Feather Fair from your booth?

We specialize in custom gourmet desserts.  Decadence is my second job (well, actually third behind being a wife and mother) and my passion.  For my day job, I sit behind a desk all day doing mainly uncreative tasks.  I felt like I was in a rut. Then, for daughters 3rd birthday last year, it hit me - I wanted to learn to make and decorate awesome cakes.  I always let my daughters pick their birthday party theme.  My daughter,  Mayson, chose The Wizard of Oz.  I had so much fun creating a 3D house sitting atop the Wicked Witch of the East, the yellow brick road, and even the Emerald City.  Though I knew I had a lot to learn, it turned out great!  I have since made tons of cakes for various themes, including Cincinnati Reds, Sesame Street, Scrabble, and Candyland.  I have made birthday cakes, wedding and baby shower cakes, holiday cakes, 1st Communion cakes, and plenty of other cakes and desserts.  I also decided to expand to all sorts of delicious desserts.  I love sitting down with my clients to design the perfect custom dessert that fits their needs and tastes!  It such a great experience to get in the kitchen and experiment with various flavor combinations and decorating techniques.  It definitely gets my creative juices pumping!! Decadence is going to be showcasing various desserts at the Fair this year, including Cupcakes in a Jar!  These are great gifts (or even better to keep for yourself)!  They include decorative jars, delicious cupcakes, and even a spoon to eat them.  We will have a variety of standard and holiday flavors!

3.  Tell us some more about yourself.

I am a wife to an amazing husband and a mother to two beautiful, intelligent, hilarious little girls.  My husband recently made the courageous decision to go back to college, and I am so proud of him.  Between my day job, his day job, his evenings at school, our kids and their activities, and Decadence, we live a fantastically chaotic life!  And I wouldn't change a thing!  My dad passed away unexpectedly at the incredibly young age of 44.  As devastated as I was that he died, he gave me a profound parting gift.  He made me look hard at my life and realize that I should not take one moment of it for granted.  There are so many wonderful things to experience in this world, and I want my daughters to grow up trying

to take advantage of each one.  I have so many blessings in my life, and I am truly grateful for every one.  I want my kids to have fun and be kids for as long as possible, and I love that they keep me young.  I love seeing the world through their eyes.  Whether it's playing in the sprinklers at the park, acting like pirates for the day, or playing in the leaves, a good day is any day I am spending with them!


I would love for you to check out Decadence on Facebook.  Be sure to "Like" us for a special coupon for the Fair!  See you November 6th!!

Thanks Kelly!  We are looking forward to seeing you soon!