Cool Craft Market-Handmade In America

Last night I volunteered to help out with the 

VIP Preview Party for the Cool Craft Market this weekend for Handmade In America.

I had an amazing time.

There was that part of me that was saying, "Amy, you've been up since 5am...you should just go home and go to bed."

But I felt I needed to go.

On I went. They had yummy small bites from Storm next door, a nice band, and 25 local vendors.

The best part of the evening was chatting one-on-one with talented women crafters. I found some new local favorites...

Anita M. Walling creates pots for your senses and your soul.

Jude Lally caught my eye with her wondrous witch dolls. 

They are magical. 

Ryan-Ashley Anderson's business is called Fray Knot.

I asked her for a business card and she handed my a pencil with her business name and a quote that sang to my heart, "creativity is rising up within you. I can feel it."

If you live in Asheville, or near...go check out the Cool Craft Market this weekend...you have today until 5pm.

Tomorrow, Sunday 11-4.

Handmade In America is located on 

125 South Lexington, Suite 101.

Support handmade. Buy local!

Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
 ~Amy
 The Spirit Dancer

I'm an Ambassador for Handmade In America

I'm an Ambassador for 

Handmade In America! 

What is Handmade In America, you ask?

"Handmade In America believes the handmade object has 

the power to transform both individuals and communities, 

and build partnerships and economies that are firmly rooted 

in the culture of Western North Carolina."

~Gwynne Rukenbrod, 

Executive Director of Handmade In America

Excerpt from Handmade In America Facebook page:

Mission:

To grow handmade economies through craft, cultural heritage, and community assets.

Description:

In 1993 a handful of Western North Carolina residents came together to find a fresh approach to economic development in their mountains. They knew that the region was filled with assets: it boasts some of the oldest, grandest mountains in the world, it is a biodiversity hotspot, and it serves as a home to some of the most creative craft artists in the nation. This small group of citizens therefore realized that this industry of craft artists, working in studios, classrooms, and galleries tucked away throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, held the key to creative and sustainable economic development.

I am proud to be an Ambassador and Member 

for Handmade In America. 

I believe in craft. I believe in answering your calling. 

I believe in Handmade In America.

Right now a campaign is going on to help Handmade In America continue to thrive. They have already reached over half their goal.

Here is a message from Gwynne Rukenbrod.

(I'm super honored to be quoted in this video. Yay!)

A few ways to show your support...

~Go to http://www.indiegogo.com/handmade and donate. 

There are amazing perks and membership opportunities! 

~Spread the word. We are all connected. Social media is powerful. Here are social media links for Handmade In America:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/handmadeinamerica

Website: http://handmadeinamerica.org/

Blog: http://handmadeconnected.wordpress.com/

Campaign: http://www.indiegogo.com/HandMade

~Buy handmade! Support crafters. Attend local craft shows. Buy your birthday presents and holiday gifts handmade. Don't go to the mall! Would you like some inspiration? 

Awesome Etsy Shops to Check Out - Support the craft!

"I am a crafter of sorts and it delights my heart to help out such a great campaign! Buy local. Buy handmade." ~Amy Riddle

Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
 ~Amy
 The Spirit Dancer