What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?
Aside from my designs being simple but also statement making pieces, I use jewelry to promote a message of loving and accepting yourself. It's important to me that Adam Rabbit isn't just another handmade jewelry company. As AR has grown, I've been able to share more of my personal feelings as well as helping others start handmade businesses. My goal is for my message to translate through the designs and although I don't stamp, "You deserve to feel good today." on my packaging,  that's the general theme and energy I want to put out there in a subtle way. 

What sort of things inspire you?  Where do you look for inspiration?
I'm really inspired by nature and the feeling you get when you are unplugged from technology. Sometimes I feel like all of the wifi is frying my brain so it is nice to get outside and feel connected to something beautiful. I'm also a proud supporter of the treat yo' self movement! I use self-care as apart of my creative process to design jewelry from a place that is pure. 

When do you feel the most creative?
I definitely feel most creative in the morning. I love waking up between 4AM-5AM to just spend time in my craft room and see what ideas come before the stress of the daily grind begins. I also teach 6th grade special ed full time so my mornings are sacred to me. 

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?
I've received a lot of advice when I first started AR. Most of it was unsolicited and along the lines of jewelry being an over saturated market.  The best tip would have to come from one of my former students who has autism. One of the only sentences he would say is, "Never EVER give up!" (You have to scream the ever) He would say it at least 20 times a day whenever he had to do something he didn't want to which included walking in a line and getting up to sharpen his pencil. When I think about never EVER give up it brings a smile to my face. 

Where can we learn more about you? 
I really love the Instagram community! I post everything from new designs, daily woes of no longer being able to eat gluten, and pretty frequently gush over my boyfriend Joe. @adamrabbitjewelry

How would you describe your style?  Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?                                                                                                                                                     

I guess the best way to describe my style is a gypsy rockstar!   A bit of an edge with a free spirited gypsy vibe.  I love the freedom of expression and sharing in spreading positive energy and happiness to one another.  

We are all energy and the positivity of enjoying each moment is contagious. If I can help my customers focus on today and enjoy the little moments, then my job is done and my journey as a designer has purpose.  

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 

I feel my work is unique because of how the accessories make you feel!   Many times we buy accessories because we like them, which we all want of course.   But my accessories bring out something different in everyone. 

Countless times I get feedback from my customers that my cuff or bracelet makes them feel so “cool," even if they are very conservative and do not wear statement pieces or much jewelry at all.   Their vibe changes while wearing the jewelry and there is not a better gift than that as a designer.   

What sort of things inspire you?  Where do you look for inspiration?

I have to say I am truly inspired by color and textures. My process always begins with something raw that I see; a material, a stone, a piece of art or sculpture.  I then create incorporating how I feel and the message that I want to convey or inspire someone else to feel.  I went on a very personal journey about a year ago and through that very positive and enlightening path I designed my new lines Energie and Henergie. I definitely learned that when you are authentic and true to yourself as a designer, the designs and inspiration are one in the same.   

When do you feel the most creative?

I am actually most creative when I am sad or on crunch time…it is such an extreme difference I know.  But both actually do not allow too much time to think and I am forced to make decisions instead of the possibilities of change or direction.  When I am saddened or stressed, my mind shuts off and my feelings go into my designs, but I will not put the time into it as I would if I was happy thus not a need for change. When I am on crunch time I have to make the decisions and my mind chooses things and processes differently.   The need to not have the “Maybe” is extremely important in my creative process.  

What is your creative process like?

My creative process really begins with an idea and the medium I choose comes second. The design process determines the medium. I always say that there is something about an artist’s mind that allows us to see and create without barriers. There are challenges and we always find the solutions.

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?

The best tip I received was from a very successful man a long time ago.  He said "NEVER listen to someone else’s ideas or opinions!!   Stay true to yourself and your designs.”   We all have a message to share in all aspects of design including painting, sculpting, music or designing.   We create from our soul and it is an expression of who we are.    Others like to project opinions and unsolicited advice that can steer you in the wrong direction.   

If you stay uninfluenced by others and believe in your path, no matter how many No’s or negative feedback you receive, you will get where you are supposed to be.   Stay Positive and Stay True to yourself and the possibilities are endless.  

Where can we learn more about you?  

You can find out more about me on my website at www.melis.com

Phoenix New Times:  The paper continues its tradition of award-winning long-form journalism while covering daily happenings and pop culture in its Valley Fever (news), Up on the Sun (music), Jackalope Ranch (culture), and Chow Bella (food) blogs. The total package makes Phoenix New Times a must-read and a perfect partner for Jackalope Arts! We will even be doing a giveaway with them featuring some of our vendors once we get closer ;)

Arizona Art Supply: For over 65 years, artists have depended on Arizona Art Supply for high quality art materials and technical information. Between their website and stores they offer over 30,000 artist products with the highest in-store student/instructor discount in Arizona. Arizona Art Supply also makes generous contributions to professional arts organizations to ensure that individual artists have strong foundations in the community.

This Could Be PHX:  This Could Be PHX provides a creative outlet to envision Phoenix the way "we" want and start a community discussion in order to plant the seeds of our future. Their goals are simple: envision, educate, and inspire.  They help to raise awareness about urban living and sustainability in Phoenix through monthly envisioning projects, educational blogs, and inspirational showcases.

We Do Men : The Man Spa: This male focused spa is throwing the taboos and stereotypes of the industry right back at it!  Making it something new to talk about, with a comedic twist, owner Stacey Grondahl wanted to create a new take on ManHandling.  Hence WE DO MEN, and the #BoozeAndTaboos Menu, was born. 

frances: Georganne Bryant opened Frances, affectionately named after her grandmother, in the heart of midtown Phoenix in 2006. She personally curates Frances’ revered blend of unique clothing, jewelry, paper goods and handmade gifts.

Couture in the Suburbs:  Fashion. Beauty. Culture. 
Couture in the Suburbs seeks to expose talented individuals excelling within these industries to an investigative audience. They look for the best of the unknown; whether that be a fashion designer, makeup artist or photographer. Discover the stories of these emerging artists as told by a team of distinguished bloggers, determined to showcase the next generation of talent.

Phoenix Ale Brewery: The home of our artisan mixer!  You can't drink the beer at the Fair but they have graciously hosted our artisan mixer and you can visit Phoenix Ale Brewery yourself for some delicious, local pints!

Yelp: Everyone knows and loves Yelp as the premier site to find the best of what's local!  

Junk N Love:  A collaborative community for creatives. Junk N Love is a cost effective way to promote businesses and a venue for creative collaboration within our community. A juried Merchant Directory and Event Calendar are the cornerstones of the website, along with an ever-growing list of additional features to help you stay informed and connected.

How would you describe your style?  
I'd say my style is a mixture of a few elements...a little bit modern, a little bit bohemian, and a little bit vintage.  

Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
There are so many to choose from!  I'm a big fan of Justina Blakeney, author of The Modern Bohemian and creator of The Jungalow.  I admire her sense of style and her love of mixing prints.  I feel like we'd be friends if we met :)

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 
I've always been the friend who gives handmade gifts for birthdays, weddings, special life events, etc.  And fortunately for me, my friends and family seem to love receiving these handmade gifts!  I just feel like there's more life and love attached to the gift, and it makes a person feel special when they receive it.  I think this is why I love doing custom apron orders.  I love finding prints that match a person's aesthetic and then creating a product that I know they'll love.

What sort of things inspire you? 
First and foremost my friends and family inspire me.  The support I get from them to continue creating my product is most inspiring.  Also, I've come to the realization that I am a fabric addict.  I am obsessed with textiles!  Finding prints and mixing and matching them makes my heart flutter!  That feeling inspires me.

Where do you look for inspiration?
I love shopping at the local vintage shops and finding quirky items that are rich with history.  I'm inspired every time I go to farmer's markets and flea markets.  It's so great to see all the talented vendors selling products that their hearts (and time) go into. There's just so much creativity out there!  

When do you feel the most creative?
It's strange to say, but I'm most creative when I've had the least amount of sleep!

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?
"Believe in your product and others will too." and "Your love for your product will be contagious."

Where can we learn more about you?
You can also find me on www.hotchickaprons.etsy.com
Instagram @hotchickaprons
Twitter @hotchickaprons
Facebook @hotchickaprons

Shop Hot Chick Aprons at Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on December 12th & 13th at Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix AZ!

How would you describe your style? 

I don't think I can pinpoint or identify with a particular style. I tend to like and lean more toward modern woodworking, however I’m not sure that is completely reflective in the wine and spirit racks, as well as the bottle openers i've been making. RIght now, I feel like my style is functional and Colorado-Ish. I am really have fun combining the Colorado beetle kill with our Colorado flag. I like to sneak in some led lighting here and there.

Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?  

I truly find a lot of inspiration from watching others in the artist community, who are making and doing what they are passionate about, They are out there hustlin’ and selling products they’ve made and love. Seeing their enthusiasm and excitement is what keeps me inspired to keep creating, as I try to follow down a similar path. I like to think that every artist/crafter/maker out there is potentially a step away from becoming the next BIG thing. You never know who is eyeballing your work, it could always lead to bigger things. There is some amazing talent out there!

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 

Being able to take something that is devastating our beautiful Rocky Mountain forests like the beetle kill wood and upcycling it into something creative and practical is pretty unique. The natural grains in the beetle kill wood are always different and full of surprises, which makes each piece unique right from the start. I’m particularly honored to have some beetle kill wood from the Black Forest fire of Colorado Springs in 2013. The heat from the fire affected the colors and grains giving them a super unique appearance.

What is your creative process like? 

I think the creative process is always evolving. Part of my process is simply thinking about the grains on a board and getting the creative juices flowing. The next step in the process which is my favorite but the longest, it’s the problem solving along with creating the templates, jigs, and methods necessary for the final piece.

Where can we learn more about you?

I have my website with some pics and all my links at jccustomdesignworks.com but I mostly post to instagram @jccustomdesignworks

Anything you'd like to add that I didn't ask....?

Many years ago I got nicknamed “Elroy” after the Jetsons cartoon. For whatever reason, it stuck and I havn’t been able to shake it. Now as I am aging into an old man, I’ve accepted it and I just roll with it. However,  my mom always wants me to be sure to let  people know that she didn’t name me that.

In anticipation for our upcoming Holiday Fairs in Pasadena, Denver and Phoenix, we want to provide some helpful tips and tricks for making the most out of your holiday shopping experience AT...

Before the Fair: 

• Make sure you know the vendors that will be there and get an idea of your must haves! All of our vendors can be viewed for each city online: Pasadena, Denver, Phoenix
• Create a Holiday shopping list for all of your family and friends, that way you are not wondering around aimlessly loosing precious time! 
• Planning to bring your kids? Check out our workshops online under each corresponding city. A great chance to become a maker yourself, offered for both kids and adults. 
• Wear comfortable shoes and pack those reusable bags! You can also purchase a Jackalope Tote at the information booth at each cities event.

Getting to the Event:

• Make sure you know the directions and parking situation so you can easily find your way- all of the parking information can be found ONLINE under Attendee Info.
• Or Skip parking in Pasadena and Go Metro by taking the Gold Line to Del Mar Station, steps away from Central Park! For your best route use the Metro Trip Planner - AND once you arrive if you are one of the first 50 people to show us your TAP card, Metro employee ID, or LA County employee ID you will get a free Jackalope tote! 
• In ALL cities you can also opt not to drive and use LYFT! We are excited to announce that we have partnered with LYFT to offer first time riders a $20 credit by using the code: JACKALOPEARTS

At the Fair:

• Do a lap first and make sure you check it all out before making purchases, and then using your previously created shopping lists, get down to business! 
• Getting hungry? Don't let hunger slow you down, we will have a bunch of vendors selling prepackaged treats and Food trucks in both Pasadena and Phoenix, and indoor Food vendors in Denver! 
• Since Pasadena and Phoenix are both outside feel free to bring blankets and picnic on the grass if you need a shopping breather! 
• Over 21? In Denver make your shopping experience more enjoyable and grab a holiday inspired cocktail at the bar!
• From everyone you purchase from make sure to get their business card and sign up for the mailing list if they have one, that way you can be kept in the loop on all of your favorites artists! 
• And if you loved Jackalope, like we hope you did, join our mailing list so you will be the first to know when we come back in town! 

Cheers and thank you for choosing Jackalope for all of your holiday shopping needs ;)

How would you describe your style?  
My particular style has always had a bohemian feel,  I love bright feel good colors and a variety of texture!  
 

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?  
I feel what makes my work unique is a combination of my designs and marketing.  I created the Giving Bracelets for a sole purpose, I wanted to create a sustainable business the continues to give back.  After launching a successful handbag company,  I spent some time volunteering for an organization that helps mentor children in the foster care system.  This experience had such an impact, I decided to create the Giving Bracelets and donate the proceeds to them.  

What sort of things inspire you?  
Traveling, culture, nature.   

When do you feel the most creative?
I feel most creative when my work space has no clutter and after having a cup of earl grey tea!

What is your creative process like?  
I design new styles twice a year, in the fall I’m thinking about Spring colors, styles and hardware and in the Spring I’m thinking about Fall colors, styles, and hardware.  

What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?  
Design and create the things you love!

Where can we learn more about you?  
www.givingbracelets.com

Shop Giving Bracelets at the Phoenix Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on December 12th & 13th at Steele Indian School Park!

How would you describe your style?  Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
Clean and contemporary. Even though I run a confection company, the flavors are more interesting and adult so I like to have the packaging reflect that. 

What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own? 
think my unique flavors make me stand out. The texture too! I tested a lot of recipes to find one that yields a soft caramel that melts in your mouth, rather than pulling out your fillings! People are always surprised at how soft they are, which makes me happy to have spent all that time worrying about it. I also seek out the best, most flavorful ingredients using local purveyors whenever possible. Colorado dairy, fresh spices and tea and hand-zested citrus all give me the brightest flavors possible.

What sort of things inspire you?  Where do you look for inspiration?
find the inspiration for my flavors from what I enjoy eating as well as what is available seasonally here in southern Colorado. The green chile caramel idea was planted when we received roasted chiles from Hatch, New Mexico in our CSA box last summer. I wondered what they’d taste like as a candy and started tinkering. The skins impart a lovely smoky flavor instead of just heat, which many people find surprising. I’m always on the search for the best horchata, so I thought, “Why don’t I just make it into a caramel?” It was tough to get the rice flavor to come through, but I think I finally succeeded. You’ll have to try them and let me know what you think!

What is your creative process like?
As a pastry chef, it’s all about precision and recipe testing. Once I have a new idea for a candy, I need to try it out in — tiny — batches to see if the flavor I’m trying to get across comes through. (This is definitely my husband’s favorite part!) I take copious notes about the weights of ingredients and any adjustments I make because I never remember what I did although I’m sure that I will at the time. After the recipe is dialed in, I pack the caramels in bags and let them sit at room temperature for 3-6 months to be sure the flavor and texture remain the same. I need to ensure that my customers will have the same experience regardless of when they purchase my confections. After all that, I’m finally ready to launch a new item!

Where can we learn more about you?  
Please visit my website at www.peakcandy.com. In addition to learning more about me, you can see our current list of flavor offerings and find outlets where you can buy them.

Keep an eye on my site in November; I’ll be rolling out a cashew curry and classic peanut brittle just in time for the holidays. I’ll also offer the caramels in a smaller, 3-count bag, so you don’t have to choose between a few of the flavors you’re pondering!

Shop Peak Candy Company at the Denver Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on November 14th & 15th!

Meet Bill and Travis, the owners of Bowwood Pinball: creators of all wood pinball games.  

Travis and I have always felt Boxwood Pinball is unique because of its beginning as an artist collaboration. We each have our own style when it comes to our individual art, and the combination of our talents becomes very unique. We both are into abstract and conceptual art, but bring it down to Earth when it comes to Boxwood. Our wooden games are meant to be a throw back to simpler times with a twist of modern design and art.

We can work independently because we are in tune with what we want Boxwood to be.

Bill's creative process happens in the wood shop where he draws and saws the physical aspect of the games. Travis works in his drawing studio surrounded by pets and music. Our creative process is triggered by the excitement of seeing what the other person has done, and being able to react to that work with our own.

We are inspired by the love of doing our work. The daily routine of getting into the studio with a fresh cup of coffee and letting our hands take us somewhere is a thrilling experience.

Learn more about Boxwood Pinball:

https://www.facebook.com/boxwoodpinball

http://boxwoodpinball.weebly.com/

Shop Boxwood Pinball at the Denver Jackalope Art & Craft Fair on November 14th & 15th!

Today's blog is dedicated to introducing and thanking all of the amazing sponsors who have been so supportive of the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair! 

Our sponsors are a diverse group of local and national businesses including both those directly involved in the handmade community and those who aren't but are excited to find ways to connect to it.  So let's take a minute to celebrate the warm support of the handmade community and these Jackalope Sponsors!

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Wondering how you're gonna get to the Fair?  Skip parking and Go Metro by taking the Gold Line to Del Mar Station, steps away from Central Park! For more details click here.  For your best route use the Metro Trip Planner or call (323) Go Metro or (323.466.3876

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YELP!   Yelp is connecting neighborhoods, businesses, and people in a unique way and we are thrilled to have them promote and attend the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair.  You can find our Pasadena Fair in the Yelp event listings here! 

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Thanks to our sponsor, The Pasadena Humane Society, you may be taking home a brand new, four legged member of your family!  We will have plenty of great vendors in the Fair selling pet supplies like collars, leashes & even doggy outfits so you can stock up for your new friend!

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These two sponsors are a special mention since the owners of both stores were on our jury panel! 

Los Angeles County Store:  Los Angeles County Store is the only shop dedicated exclusively to fine goods made in Los Angeles.  From artisanal food to small housewares, apothecary to prints and stationary, it is a thoughtfully curated collection of beautifully crafted wares from across the county.  

Leanna Lin's Wonderland: A playful jewelry studio/shop/art gallery inspired by modern + retro designs, where you can use your imagination to create your own beaded jewelry or shop the amazing work of carefully selected makers.  People of all ages enjoy visiting this little gem in Eagle Rock, especially for the carefully curated art + pop-up events!  

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Come join SPACE Arts Center at the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair for the Mask-querade! Create masks of your favorite fantastic creatures and take a walk on the wild side. 

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Our next four sponsors are dedicated to making sure their readership knows about the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair!  Let's give a shout out to our media sponsors!! Click on the links below to check them each out:

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Now let's talk about the sponsors who make sure our printed materials look fabulous for distribution!  
Responsible for our really rad Jackalope Arts Canvas tote bags, which will be available for sale at the Fair and online, is Print Renegades!  They incite and embolden free thinking by crushing the walls of traditional print shops.  They are environmentally aware and come from the artist background delivering the highest possible quality.  Shop Jackalope for your own canvas tote!

Our second print sponsor will be creating our flyers, post cards, banners etc.  The Printing Train is a family owned and operated company who loves what they do and takes pride in delivering the highest quality product!  

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Last but not least our next sponsor comes to us in support of our artists and mission: For 30 years homeowners in Los Angeles and surrounding areas have come to rely on Renewal by Anderson of Los Angeles for top quality replacement windows and doors.

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Last but not least, we love a good celebration and great, locally crafted beer makes for the perfect celebration… sponsoring our accepted vendor mixer is Angel City Brewery!  Located in the Downtown LA Arts District, ACB supports local arts of all kinds.

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Have a great idea for a sponsorship or want to be a sponsor yourself? Learn more and fill out our sponsorship form!