Dante Perozzi

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I have moved around a ton in my life, so it's not easy to sum up. I was born in Zimbabwe, lived in places like Virginia, Louisiana, South Carolina, sailed on a boat along the US east coast and into the Caribbean, and finally settled in Arizona. The longest I stayed anywhere was 12 years in California, but I was just 21 when I got there. I think all that moving around made me more open to taking risks, trying new things, and not being afraid of big changes or new ideas.

Very cool! Do you have any artistic influences?

Yes! Other than finding beauty in formal attributes and shapes - I am always moved and inspired by sculpture. Some favorites that I can think of right now are Louise Nevelson, Gordon Matta Clark, Robert Motherwell, Carl Andre, Eva Hesse.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success as an artist is creating something that can affect the thoughts or emotions of others through my creations. They have an impact and can be absorbed/appreciated by an audience. In the case of jewelry, I feel successful when I see someone light up when they find or wear my my jewelry. 

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Knowing when to stop! I have endless ideas and I could make new designs indefinitely. But I have learned to hold myself back otherwise I become buried by the production of too many pieces at a time. Patience doesn’t come easily to me.  

Has your style changed over time?

I went from working with very clean lines, straight edges, smooth surfaces with sharp angled designs that were highly structural in nature to the complete opposite end of the spectrum! I am currently making pieces that are highly textural, and more organic in form. It’s funny to think about how very different my work is now.

Ya we can spot the difference from when you first started doing our fairs! How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I have steadily added skills to my knowledge base from the beginning. I thrive off of a design challenge-and since I don't let my personal skillset limit my ideas, I am often seeking out knowledge via courses or local resources in order to bring my idea to life.

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I could never pick a favorite. But I’ll say that I am really enjoying making chains lately. I have a beautiful new piece called the Nara Chain and I find it mesmerizing.  I can definitely see more unique chain making in my future.

Can’t wait to see what you will create next! And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

I have been in Colorado for 5.5 years now and the beauty of this state is truly incomparable, I have also really grown to love the active and engaged community of people I have found here. I have 2 young boys that I am very grateful to be able to raise in this special place.

Can’t wait to be back there next week! Catch Dante Perozzi at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.danteperozzi.com

Instagram: @danteperozzijewelery

Tatiana of Sanin Jewelry

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I am from Medellin, Colombia, the city of the eternal spring. Being born there brings a different sunshine to my inspiration that is reflected in some of my pieces. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Doing what you love every day of your life surrounded by your loved ones.

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

The days when I don't have inspiration. I used to think that I needed to be creative everyday, but I am just a human with sunny and rainy days. There will be days full of wonderful ideas and others for resetting myself.  

Well said. Has your style changed over time?

A lot! From the materials I use, to the design process, and I think it will continue evolving and that excites me!

How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I am coming out of a time in my life when I took a couple years to work on myself and get some clarity in my life. I am ready for the next chapter of growing and learning. I am planning to attend a design school next year to discover more about this creative world.

Very cool! What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I have a lot of favorite items, it is hard to choose. I love my WILDLIFE COLLECTION because I am a big animal lover. I also adore my CONSTANTINE COLLECTION that was inspired by the architecture of the big cathedrals around the world. My father helped me to bring my ideas to life and having his hands be part of this process makes every piece very special to me.

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The nature! The silhouettes of the mountains getting lost in the sky and the magnificent wildlife that I have the honor to be surrounded by. What a lucky girl to wake up with the sound of the birds and go to bed with the light of the stars. 

Catch Sanin Jewelry at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.sanin.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saninjewelry

Amber with Original Remix

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?  

I am from Denver Colorado. This affects my work because I love being outdoors and am greatly inspired by nature in my designs. I really like plants and enjoy creating out of the ordinary items with them (such as live plant jewelry)! 

Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I would say one of my biggest design influences is clean cut modern designs sometimes mixed with a bit of retro. This is reflective in my branding and logo, as well as my Root Vases which have a very clean aesthetic. You can see a bit of mid-century retro twist reflective in the gold that I use as part of my jewelry, and in how I style my vendor space at markets. 

How do you define success as an artist?

I define success as an artist as being able to create truly unique items, bringing them into the world from an idea, to a sketch at times, to a finished product that brings joy and a smile to people's faces.   

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Yes. Art and design help me in other areas of my life by providing an outlet for my creativity to flow. I also use art and design to create aesthetically pleasing and welcoming spaces in my own home.     

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

I have worked on developing my skill-set by continuing to develop new products, and by utilizing various tools in the workshop I work in, such as a CNC machine, drills, etc. My background is in product design and a lot of my designs are influenced by that. I like to call it "Craft meets Design." I also do multiple prototypes of a design continually refining and improving it until I feel it's ready to be presented. I also ask for feedback on a new product I may be working on.     

Very cool! What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

I think the hardest part is the patience required to complete a product from sketch or prototype to something I'm proud of and ready to present to the world.   

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

That's a tough one. Like choosing your favorite kid, lol. I love each product for different reasons but if I had to pick one, I think it would be my line of Live Air Plant and Live Cactus Earrings. They truly puzzle people, cause people to stop and do a double-take. Then the delight on their faces when they realize the plants are real is what I love the most. When I was developing the Live Cactus Earrings, I had a lot of skeptics (understandably). I did many iterations of the pot before I decided on the one I make and use today, and I love that I proved the skeptics wrong about this being a valid product. People are confused by them, but at the same time, love them.  

We can’t wait to see those in person! Catch Original Remix at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: originalremix.com

Instagram: @original__remix/

Alyssa Webb

Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I have many influences in the world of candle makers, but as far as main influence, I enjoy the candle makers that follow sustainable practices using high-quality ingredients and are transparent with their customers on best candle burning practices.

How do you define success as an artist?

Being able to adapt to change quickly.  What might be popular in scent right now might not be popular next season.  I am always reading about trending accords in the fragrance world and trying to incorporate them into my custom blends in one way or another for seasonal changes.  

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Being a candle maker is therapeutic for me.  Luxe Intuition was born during the pandemic, and candle making was a way for me to disconnect from all the turmoil and uncertainty.  Three years later, it is still a way for me to disconnect from this crazy world we live in.  Creating candles for people knowing they typically light them for relaxation or some form of enjoyment, brings me joy in knowing I can spread light to them in their time of disconnecting from the world.     

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

Through education and trial and error.  With candle making, there is an exorbitant amount of testing and retesting needed before you can sell a successfully made candle.  A candle that burns evenly down and burns clean without sooting has gone through extensive research to perfect that blend.  Luxe Intuitions custom blended scents undergo about 4-6 months of full testing to ensure our customers' best possible high-quality candles. 

We only use high-grade vegan-friendly oils that blend well into our sustainable coconut-apricot wax blend.  Our coconut wax will burn cleaner and longer than traditional soy wax, and our coconut wax blend will give an amazing hot throw from start to finish giving you an enjoyable aroma versus an over the top hit you in the face scent.  We are not about having the strongest candle in the room, as most of those are extremely toxic and have exceeded the limit of how much oil they should be using in the candle.  Luxe Intuition Candles create an ambiance like no other and last a very long time, up to 80 hours for our 12 oz candles, and we are proud to say our customers enjoy this the most about our line.   

Very cool! What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Creating the perfect scent.  Scent if so subjective, and only some people enjoy the same aromas.  So to ease this never ending battle we try to have something for everyone throughout our collections that are still unique and intriguing to our customers.  We pride ourselves in creating custom scent blends you won't find anywhere else.  

What’s the best thing about being an artist?

The best thing about candle making is when I am at an event and a customer comes up to me and says “Your candles last forever and I don't get headaches from them!”  You will not believe how many people I get that tell me they can't burn candles because they get nauseous or extreme migraines, and then once they have had ours burning and it doesn't happen to them, it is such a relief and breath of fresh air.  This is actually how Luxe Intuition came to fruition.  I am extremely sensitive to scent.  I developed the line around my sensitivities and created candles that were enjoyable and safe to burn.  I have attracted this type of customer and now I have a growing community of customers that can now enjoy candles safely without having headaches or nausea.  

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I have a love for nature and being outdoors.  One of my favorite places to go, and is also very close in distance to where I live, is Waterton Canyon.  When I developed my Colorado candle collection, I knew I had to incorporate notes that made me feel like I was there even if I wasn't.  And wouldn't you know, this custom blended scent creation happens to be our top seller for 2023.  We also ended up calling it Waterton Canyon, and this candle is gifted time and time again with return purchases, and we hope to keep this scent around for a long time as long as our customers keep enjoying it.  

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The ever-evolving landscape of makers.  I have met many talented artists over the last few years of attending events, and their talent always blows me away.  We have a huge amount of artisans that continue to emerge, and I love the appreciation from customers that understand what it takes to make our products, and they value a quality over-quantity approach in consumed goods.       

We will plant a tree with every purchase you make with Luxe Intuition through a global organization called One Tree Planted.  They go into areas devastated by fires and destruction and create biodiversity through reforestation programs.  Something else I would like to share is our wedding candle collection.  This special collection is fully customizable and makes great gifts for out-of-town guests, bridal parties, bridal showers; and we even have a special candle engraved with the words I Do for the couple to light on their special day to calm the wedding day jitters and to relight at anniversaries.  We also recently launched room & linen sprays.  These are also made with vegan-friendly oils and complement the candles in our collections.   

Catch Luxe Intuition at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.luxeintuition.com

Facebook: www.facebnook.com/luxeintuition

Instagram: @luxeintuition

Amberle Byrne

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

I was born and raised in Webster, New York just a quarter mile from Lake Ontario. I have always been drawn to the water wherever I have lived. At age 22 I left New York and have lived in Alaska, Rhode Island, Georgia, Ireland, Mexico and now Colorado. In every location (except this one!) we were always within a mile of a large lake or the ocean, and the water has greatly influenced my work as I am drawn to beach looks and sea creatures. Seasons have also influenced my work with fall being my favorite (the colors of upstate New York are spectacular), and inspires pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors.

 How do you define success as an artist?

I am still struggling with the traditional American idea of success as how much money I can earn. Though the more time I spend in the art world, the more I find success to me means enjoying creating new work, having the opportunity to share that work with others both in the U.S. and internationally, having the freedom to balance my life with my work and bringing a little joy to others. 

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Art helped me when I was most struggling with depression and anxiety that began in 2018. Working with my hands helped me "get out of my head" and focus on creating something. 

2018 also kicked off a series of health issues that made traditional work impossible for me as I needed at least 20 hours per week to focus on my health. Starting my ceramics business in 2020 has become an "accidental" career and I love the flexibility that self-employment brings so I can take the time to focus on other areas of life when needed.

My experiences influenced my work in that I love to make pieces that bring people joy.

We love that. How have you developed your skill at your craft?

I came to art later in life. It was not a part of life that was encouraged when I was younger ~ academics, sports and a college degree in something more traditional were the goals. So I hail from 15 years as an International Educator, specializing in student and professional visas and assisting those individuals with adapting to life in the U.S.

A friend of mine invited me to her studio in 2018, handed me clay and said "go." I took four classes from her learning on the wheel, but moved more towards handbuilding over the years. Though I also took a 10 week class on animal sculpture in 2022, I am predominately self taught by watching videos on social media and YouTube, reading books, following groups online for tutorials/advice and a whole lot of trial and error in the home studio.

Very fun. What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Having to stop creating to manage social media, marketing, sales, applications to markets, packing and shipping, and all of the other jobs a one-woman small business owner does! 

I love the days I can just be in my studio and make pretty things!

How has your style changed over time?

Learning that I am a creative person has been the best thing! I had never thought of myself that way, and it has opened a new world with so many other wonderful creative and supportive people.

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

My current favorite item (my husband will tell you I never have just one favorite) are my whale sculptures (pumpkins are a close second). They are my most favorite to make, though also the most time consuming so having time to create them are my best studio days.

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The sunflowers growing wild along the side of the roads and in the fields. They are my favorite flower, and it makes me ridiculously happy to drive along passing thousands of them when they're in season.

Catch Amberle Byrne Creatives at Jackalope Arvada on October 13th, 14th, & 15th

Website: www.etsy.com/shop/AmberleByrne

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

Instagram: @amberlebyrnecreatives

Do you have a story behind your company name?

Yes, Something to Cherish® is a play off of my birth name, Cherish, which means: beloved, to treasure, to care for, or to hold dear. When I started this art brand in 2007, I didn't know what I wanted to call it, but the mystery was soon solved with a call from my mom who had been talking with my grandmother. They had brainstormed the name “Something to Cherish.” I thought it was a wonderful name but assumed that somebody else was already using it. To my surprise, the trademark was available.

Something to Cherish® means that life is a gift to cherish. It’s an extension of my family legacy that focuses on loving and caring for people from all walks of life. As a community, if we’ve learned nothing else from the past years of Covid, hopefully, we have learned that no one is promised tomorrow, and we all need meaningful human connection. This present moment truly is a sacred gift to be cherished.

So true, and we love how personal your company name is. How did you get your start?

Since I was a little girl, I made art and played “gift shop” by creating amusing little things for all my family members to “purchase.” I even offered a gift wrapping service! In high school and college, I was fortunate to study art and earned multiple degrees in illustration, fine art, and design. Initially, I concentrated on children’s book illustration. After illustrating my first two books, I started a greeting card company and began assisting independent publishers in publishing their own books, which led me to realize my gift for artistic product development. 

Early in my career, I was selected to lead the art team for a company owned by Clint Eastwood (Tehama), where I learned about the intricacies of product development from firsthand experience, designing high-end resort wear that often appeared in celebrity sightings. I was also appointed to create surface pattern designs for the IZOD G (a PVH brand) and Arnold Palmer fashion lines where I learned about licensing and our global apparel markets. 

Wow that is really cool. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

My favorite part is the spark creation that takes me off into a flow of delightful surprises, one after another. I often see things in colors and words before I see images. So, it's a fascinating journey to put pictures to the feelings and sensations that I have in my brain to help bring a story and vision to fruition. Stretching myself to use my various gifts and life experiences in each project is also challenging and fun.

Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

One of the reasons I always wanted to be an artist is that I thrive on atypical days, as spontaneity is often the fuel for my next brainchild. However, I have also learned the importance of honoring my circadian rhythm so I am dedicated to opening and closing a day with a certain routine. Every morning I begin in the studio with a gratitude painting practice where I take out a blank sheet of watercolor paper, prepare my watercolors, and let my wet brush guide the painting. After this, I may work on a visual project, meet with business associates, teach an art class, work in my garden, take a walk, take an entrepreneurship class, and/or hop in and out of the computer to facilitate momentum – it all depends on the season, the deadlines, and my current endeavors.

Love that the first part of your day is a painting! What inspires you to create?

My work is highly inspired by nature. I love the little intricacies of how a flower buds, how a blade of grass is swept along in a creek, the rustling sway of trees, the taste of the life-giving herbs, and the way we are all connected on the substance of earth amid an infinite starry landscape. I’m enthralled with the divine order of things and honored to contribute my song to the vast chorus of creation.

Do you have a favorite item you have made?

There is a range of beautiful things I have created over the years, but I am still exceptionally proud of the tote bag I designed for my “Elements by Cherish” line in partnership with Studio M. Each beautiful canvas bag in this collection not only reflects the joys of the elements of earth, fire, wind, air, and cosmos as interpreted by my watercolor designs, but the leather-handled bags are very sturdy and are designed to travel both near and far. I designed it with my ballet dancing sister in mind (it’s amazing how much they need to carry to each show!). Its big size and pockets fit everything you need for work or leisure. I love mine for a trip to the farmer’s market, and I have been known to use it as a weekender bag to the hot springs or beach. And best yet, it stows perfectly underneath an airline seat!

That is a true win! What do you love most about Colorado?

As a multi-generational native of Colorado, I adore the sunrises and sunsets over the purple mountain majesties. Living against the foothills, I love the close proximity to both the yawning prairies out east and the mountain passes to the west. I’m excited by the future with its expanding cultural opportunities and reflect on my deep family history roots in this little corner of the planet.

What will you be bringing to Jackalope?

I’m excited to debut a new collection of tablet-friendly handbags, luxurious handmade silk scarves, accent pillows, boho baby blankets, and other accessories featuring my watercolor designs. In addition, I will be displaying a series of signed and numbered prints, as well as a selection of original watercolor paintings.

Anything special you would like to add?

While it’s a joy to share resplendent watercolor stories and inspiring words through quality designed goods that become a part of everyday life, it’s also important to remember the bigger picture. Because of the success of Something to Cherish®, it’s an honor to partner with non-profits that help me plant fruit trees in vulnerable areas where food, jobs, and vegetation is necessary for communities to survive and thrive. I love how one fruit tree can multiply into many possibilities for provision, nourishment, and even seeds for future trees, practically cherishing both people and the planet for many years.

Lastly, I'm excited that Jackalope is coming to this special area of Colorado, home to so many people who have supported my art journey over the last 20 years. I'm thrilled to have a venue to share my latest works and to celebrate this special milestone. 

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of Something to Cherish:

Website | https://www.SomethingToCherish.com

Instagram | @somethingtocherish

Do you have a story behind your company name?

After not feeling completely satisfied with my business name for a third time, I decided to take a walk to clear my head. It was a full moon that night and I jokingly said to myself, maybe I should change my name to The Moonery Collective. No, that's silly.. I looked up the definition when I got home and beside the obvious of mooning someone(!), I found that a "mooner" is a person who abstractedly wanders or gazes about. I have always been a daydreamer and get lost in thought. So the name stuck! It's a homage to all of those daydreamers out there!

Oh we love that! How did you get your start?

I have been dabbling in herbalism and creative processes for twenty years and in 2019, finally made it official. I am a professional archaeologist, and while that is a fun and fascinating career, I needed a creative outlet. My motto is "where science meets magick" slow fusion skin and ritual care, blending traditional herbal remedies I've learned over the years with fun, witchy ritual things like intention candles and bath items.

Definitely important to have balance. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Coming up with an idea and then watching it unfold for both the successes and the ideas that didn't quite come out the way I planned. It is all part of the learning process.

Very true. Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

The first thing I do is sip herbal tea, take in a deep breath, and say, "You got this," then get the candle melter started. While that is heating up, I check orders and emails, as well as the low inventory list. Some days I just start creating without a routine and follow my heart. Other days I'm overwhelmed and sit on the couch ignoring it all!

What inspires you to create?

I love teaching people about my products and to encourage others to make or do what inspires them, even if it's been done a thousand times. I'm not re-inventing the wheel here. You can buy a candle or a salve from a lot of amazing people, but it's that connection and conversations that keep me going.

Love that. Do you have a favorite item you have made?

Lady From the Mountain (a line in a Stevie Nicks song, can you guess which one?) is my most popular candle. Made with my own wax blend of coconut, soy, and mango butter using only essential oils, it smells absolutely intoxicating and is so pretty to look at! The candle is adorned with botanicals and a crystal that corresponds to the candle to help set your intention. The candle is safe to use on your skin, too! But if I'm being practical and want to share my love of herbalism, then I would have to say the Colorado Crack Salve is my favorite. It's like a first aid for your skin! Great for dry, cracked hands and feet, minor cuts, bites, and even safe for healing tattoos.

What do you love most about Arvada?

I love seeing the mountains every day, it never gets old. Arvada is a cute town just down the road from Golden, where I live. Olde Town Arvada is really great - the shops, the food.. one of my favorite places to meet friends is The Bluegrass Coffee and Bourbon Lounge, there is something for everyone and the people are friendly.

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of The Moonery Collective:

Website | https://www.themoonerycollective.com/

Instagram | @the.moonery

Do you have a story behind your company name?

Our name is actually pretty simple! My husband and I have the last name Mathews, so it’s just the power of two M’s making candies!

Tell us, how did you get your start?

I originally learned the basics of chocolates in culinary school over a decade ago. Even before that, I was always making candy and chocolates as gifts for my extended family- my mom has plenty of stories about chocolate on her ceiling, cabinets and counters. There was something really alluring in the creativity of chocolate making; even though I have a restaurant chef background, I wanted to learn more. I worked in New York for a celebrated chocolatier and absorbed everything I could. I was able to do a lot of flavor creation and started to develop my creative voice. Once we moved to Denver, I was able to expand my restaurant skills, all of which help inform our direction for the business.

That is awesome! Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

I love the aspect of creating! Food is so much fun to play with, and the interconnectedness of science, flavor and memory makes discovering new flavor combinations that much more enjoyable. My favorite time of the whole year is early Autumn- I start planning and testing my winter and holiday goodies, which means there are plenty of goodies to taste test!

That would be my favorite part for sure! Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

Typical is a bit hard to describe, as I’m sure every small business owner knows- but the day always starts with coffee! There’s a semi-official structure to the day, but by about an hour into most days, the schedule gets blown apart. In general, every day is handling custom orders, getting ready for events, holidays, emails, talking to vendors, coordinating with customers, managing finances, planning for future events and item rollouts, and then the actual production and packaging of items. All of this while checking all of our various sales platforms to make sure we’re getting products out to customers!

Sporting multiple hats! What inspires you to create?

Part of my philosophy when it comes to creation is to take flavors and desserts that inspire nostalgia and turn them into unique and approachable chocolates. Tapping into food memories is one of the things chefs strive for every day we make food. The act of making someone feel through our food is the definition of our artistic expression.

Very cool. Do you have a favorite item you have made?

That is a nearly impossible question to answer! I love so many different items for so many different reasons…I think our s’mores kits are so unique and delicious, and I feel like there are very few people who can do what we do with our kits. I’m a big snacker, so when it comes to sheer snackability, anything with our peanut butter crunch filling is so delicious and easy to munch on (I’m never too disappointed if I have a piece or two of our peanut butter whirls crack). Overall, our bon bons are the real representation of the full breadth of our creative direction, and they give us the most room to play around and enjoy unique flavor combinations.

What will you be bringing to Jackalope Arvada?

We will be bringing as much chocolate as we can hope to not melt, as well as some classic and unique candies that pack flavor punches! We have pectin jelly candies, various flavored bon bons and our s’mores kits, made with hand cast chocolate bars, fresh marshmallows and house-made graham crackers. We also hope to bring an assortment of other brand new items if we can manage it!

What do you love most about Arvada?

Arvada has been very good to us, both the city itself and the vendors and friends we’ve made in the city!  We’ve been welcomed with open arms by so many of the shops in the town, and we hope to have earned that trust and kindness.  I love that Arvada is such a welcoming community to everyone, and supports small businesses of all sizes!

What did you miss most about in person events now that events are picking back up again? 

Mostly just being able to connect with our community!  It’s very hard to communicate our intentions with our products without being able to present them ourselves, and I think that people appreciate when the maker can actually tell them why they are unique and worth buying.  I also missed getting to hang out with our vendor friend community.  It’s always nice to be surrounded by people who are going through the same trials you are, and everyone is always so supportive (especially the Jackalope community!) 

That makes us smile! Anything special you would like to add?

We’re opening our first retail and physical location in Westminster this August! We are so excited to finally move out of our commissary kitchen and into our very own space so we can continue to grow and innovate. We are hoping to expand our current truffle, candy bar and gift offerings, as well as introduce a few brand new (to us!) programs, including small batch ice cream and custom sundae kits! Keep an eye out on our social media to see what we’re up to, including when our grand opening will be!

YUM! We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of M2 Confections:

Website | https://m2confections.com

Instagram | @m2_confections

Do you have a story behind your company name?

Mindful Works was chosen to reflect our meditation and yoga products. Our original name was Infinitely Simple, but participants felt that name did not accurately portray our mission and activities.

Tell us, how did you get your start?

Our Executive Director, Susan Williams, saw a need for employment to be part of the recovery process for individuals overcoming mental health challenges. Mindful Works is supervised by The Windhorse Guild and was created in 2015. We provide employment and real wages to our participants as they build skills to prepare them to enter the traditional labor market or pursue educational goals.

We love that! Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

We love the collaboration that goes into making all of our goods. One person may cut the pattern, and another may sew, and then another may fill. It feels really great when it all comes together and we arrive at a finished piece. It is also wonderful to see the progress made by our participants as they improve their skills and gain confidence.

It is a true team effort. Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

Our day typically starts at 10am, with Program participants clocking in and getting work assignments for the day. Our Shoppe Manager keeps the work flow going as pieces are cut and serged, sewn and filled. Our baking team, The Mindful Bakers, head to the commercial kitchen and work with our Kitchen Manager to create delicious cookies and scones. The atmosphere is lively and buzzing with activity as our program participants learn work skills.

That is inspiring! Speaking of, what inspires you to create?

We are inspired to create different items according to the seasons, as well as color, texture and the beauty of the natural world.

Do you have a favorite item you have made?

That’s a hard question! We have so many items that we love to make. If we had to pick a favorite it might be our Kilim Patchwork Pouf. That seems to be a customer favorite as well.

What will you be bringing to Jackalope Arvada?

We will be bringing some old favorites like our poufs and meditation cushions. We always have festival flags, jewelry pouches and napkins, which make great gifts.

Anything special you would like to add?

By buying our products you are supporting the recovery of individuals overcoming barriers to employment due to mental health challenges.

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of Mindful Works:

Website | www.mindful-works.org

Instagram | @mindfulworksboulder

Dana and Gary

Do you have a story behind your company name?

Our company name actually came from my mother in law who has been a huge supporter of the syrup and our business from the beginning; we are always running ideas by her even to this day! She thought since it started for our kids, made by "daddy," why not Daddy's Homemade?

Cute! How did you get your start?

Dannie is a stay-at-home dad who started taking a closer look at all the high fructose corn syrup and other artificial ingredients in the pancake syrup our kids were eating so much of. Between our family and some health issues that developed, it was important to have a healthier alternative, so he started experimenting with his own syrups – mixing, matching, and calculating all-natural ingredients and flavors. He created our syrup with no artificial ingredients, no high fructose corn syrup and no preservatives. Our daughter is the pickiest eater, so when she approved the taste, we knew we were onto something. With the encouragement of Dannie’s mom, we started giving it to friends and family to sample. They loved it, he loved making it, and from creating the labels to taste testing, the kids loved being a part of the process. Each member of our family, even our littlest at 3 years old likes to have his special jobs!

From our ingredients to the hand-tying of the twine on our jars, we utilize a multi-step process of creating then packaging our products meticulously by hand to ensure every batch is of the highest quality. Dannie has found a passion for trying new flavors, and I love experimenting with what we can use them for. Having three young kids who never agree on anything makes meals difficult most days, so he has created over 60 flavors, so there is always something for everyone. All our kids love helping us experiment with new recipes too! Even after customers have tried all of the flavors, there is always another flavor available or will be available soon. It’s exciting to see our return customers at events when they find a new flavor they want to try.

Often we are asked why many of our flavors are clear. There are no artificial ingredients, no high fructose corn syrup and no preservatives. We started using it on our breakfast foods, but because of the unique flavors, it is easy to enjoy on just about anything! In addition to our breakfast foods, we now put it in our coffee and beverages; meats and vegetables, popcorn and salty snacks; desserts and baked goods and so much more! 

That is so fun! Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Dannie makes all our syrup and I love the way the scent of the syrup fills our kitchen and house when he is making it! Getting to taste test new flavors is always fun too!

I bet! Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?

There is no typical day! I have a full time job while running our small business and juggling 3 young kids! We find time when we can in order to try to get everything done, but when Dannie is making syrup, our oldest has a special job to help get him started and then we are all kicked out of the kitchen while he works his magic! Once he gets started, he gets into his groove and if he needs anything we help get it, otherwise he is not to be disturbed! We like to ensure the highest quality product comes out of each batch every time!

Love that. What inspires you to create?

I am surprised to have found a creative side to my husband giving us a flavor explosion! He has always been the science and math brain! When I am creating for our social media or for recipe ideas, oftentimes my kids give me ideas and we just start creating! I also get inspired from hearing what other people use our syrup for.

Do you have a favorite item you have made?

I love our variety packs. They are great for gifts and for someone who wants to try different flavors (they come with 4 flavors in different sizes and are customizable); plus it includes a single batch of pancake mix and a reusable tote. I love when customers use the tote to bring back their empty jars for discounts on their new jars at events.

That is a great idea, and a great gifting idea. What will you be bringing to Jackalope Arvada?

We will be bringing lots of new flavors of our all natural homemade syrup we have been experimenting with as well as some of the classic flavors and our newest; most popular flavor - Lavender! We will also have our variety packs, pancake mix and samples to taste a few of the flavors!

Anything special you would like to add?

Our daughter helped create the labels and was hand drawing each one when we first started selling so we are bringing out some of her artwork to the event as well that you will be able to purchase and take home! We are so proud of her art and how much she has been helping us with our family owned business!

Other ideas for our syrup? We also have a restaurant/bar using our syrup in cocktails, mocktails, coffee drinks and lemonades. There is a bakery using our syrup for baked goods and a doughnut shop that will be using it for glaze for their doughnuts!

We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!

Where to see more of Daddy’s Homemade Syrup:

Website | https://www.daddyshomemadesyrup.com/

Instagram | @daddyshomemadesyrups