1. How did you get your start in the handmade community?

 I started ceramics when I was 8 years old in Chicago.  Then after many years away from the craft... about 10 years ago I started teaching and creating functional art and have been in love with handmade since!

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

I make my work with my own two hands, so nothing is slip cast... my hands form every single piece, I infuse my energy, heart and soul into every piece and I believe the love and care is felt from this intimate process.

3. What or Who Inspires you?

Being present... clay calms my mind. So do subtleties and peace promoting colors and forms in nature.  

4. What is your creative process like?

It's very organic.  I'll get inspiration at times, but often I just create and it evolves.  I don't sketch much.

5. What is the coolest artistic tip you have ever received?

Every day, no matter how busy you are with client deadlines... make something just for you.  my commercial photography teacher said that, and it translates to every artistic medium I've done.

6. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

Everything, it's my first time and I'm thrilled to join... 

I'm excited to share many pieces from my new line I've just started to show that is hand built and extra organic, which is a sweet compliment to my cleaner wheelthrown designs.

7. Where can we learn more about you?  My Etsy page has some lovely details ... 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/aveshamichael

1. How did you get your start in the handmade community?

Even though my mom doesn't think of herself as artistic or crafty she is.  When I was young my mom often made gifts for friends and even sold a few things.  My favorite was candles.  My mom made molded candles and the room she made them in always smelled so good.  Back in the 60's there was a lot of macrame going on and my mother did that also.  Hanging planters, wall art and gods eyes were done a lot.  In the summer we took art and craft classes at the school.  When I started teaching preschool and kindergarten I came to love crafting with things people would typically throw out: kleenex boxes, toilet paper tubes, boxes, etc.  When I started my store I really wanted to focus on handmade and local.  There are so many "closet crafters" out there who didn't have an outlet for their crafts other than doing fairs.

2. What/Who is your biggest inspiration?

I can't really say there is one person or thing.  I feel like I get different kinds of inspiration from different people and places.  Inspiration comes from connection.  When you connect on a real level with something or someone you become inspired!  Love, beauty, heartbreak, adventure, challenge.  If the world touches you, you will find a way to express it in some way whether it is a poem, song, story, painting, jewelry etc., etc., etc.

3. Tell us a few favorites of yours?

My favorite color right now is probably a teal shade.  

My favorite people are probably my kids.  They range in age from 18 to 23 and I am just loving watching them turn into adults and finding their passions and working to that end.  

My favorite dream is winning the lottery.  I love to think of all the ways I would use the money to relax and do good!

My favorite drink is a chai latte.

My favorite thing to do in any gathering is play games (of all kinds).

4. What do you love most about the handmade movement?

I think the thing I love most about the resurgence of handmade crafts is the peace and community it offers people.  Almost everyone I talk to who crafts does it because they love it, it is their stress relief.  It also brings people together.  Someone will always want to learn how you do something.  So you teach them, or you tell them.  You have shared your passion and excitement for life and that spark will spread like wildfire!

5. What is the most important feature in an artists application for you? 

In the application itself it will probably be the picture and description of what the artist does.  Do they take pride in their work and take care to craft an item of good quality not something that is slapped together and likely to fall apart?  The application needs to be thorough and provide all the information that is asked for.

6. What are you looking forward to the most in joining the jury panel with Jackalope?

I look forward to being a part of the reason someone comes to a craft fair and falls in love with crafting or handmade items.  I have always loved event planning (worked to put on conferences, weddings, bat mitzfahs and fundraisers a lot!) and I love it when a patron comes away saying they loved it.

Have you heard? New this Spring, we are partnering with Verlocal for Jackalope Pasadena to provide hands-on workshops and unique activities at the Verlocal Experience Booth within the fair! 

Verlocal is a perfect fit for us because we both believe in better exposing the local community to handmade makers and artisans. Verlocal takes experiences beyond just individual events by building businesses and connecting them to people looking to discover local classes, events, products and services! 

So, What is Verlocal?  

Verlocal.com is a platform for artists, artisans, craftsmen and domain experts to offer unique classes, events, services and sell handmade products to a community of passion seekers.

Through Verlocal, Verlocal Business users can set up an online Verlocal Storefront and sell their experiences and products to hundreds of thousands of local customers.

Businesses will also gain access to online tools like an online booking system, customer messaging tool and more to help them launch and manage their passion-based business efficiently.  

How to Get Involved? 

Whether you want to host a workshop at the upcoming Jackalope Pasadena event, or simply want to sell your products through Verlocal, the first step is creating a Verlocal Business Account. 

Here’s TOP 6 reasons you should set up your Verlocal Business Account:

REASON 1 - Get a free digital online shop to sell anything, even workshops!  
A Verlocal Business Account provides you with a free digital online shop that allows you to sell classes, workshops, events, services and products. Your offerings will also be listed in their localized marketplace for unique experiences and products.

REASON 2 - Join hundreds of other users, you will gain access to a suite of online software tools to maximize your craft business processes. Check them out at www.verlocal.com/pro.

REASON 3 - You can supercharge your craft fair experience through the social features of your Verlocal Account.

People can find your offerings easily through the Verlocal iOS App or Mobile Website. And through your account, people can easily follow your store in one scan/click and store you in their wish-list so they can revisit your store after the craft fair.

Any Verlocal business who is at Jackalope Pasadena will have a QR Code for shoppers to scan!

REASON 4 - If you are a Jackalope Pasadena vendor, you will benefit from their direct marketing promotions to get more sales from Jackalope Craft Fair Visitors.

1. $5 Free Verlocal Credits will be given to new sign-ups and iOS app download users at Jackalope Pasadena. If you have a Verlocal Business Account, these users can spend those credits in your store or for a workshop that you may be hosting at the fair!  
2. Be Featured Prominently in their marketing campaign leading up to Jackalope Pasadena. They will work with you on a branded content article that will be shared across their social media channels and on their Landing Page website.

REASON 5 - Also for Jackalope Pasadena Vendors, be part of a Fair-Wide Giveaway Scavenger Hunt!

Get customers to visit your store like Pokemon GO! When they scan a unique QR code at your store, they win a raffle ticket which they can use to enter in their online raffle exclusive where they can win free gifts and discounts.

REASON 6 - Get dedicated marketing support for Verlocal Businesses. For any Jackalope Pasadena Vendor, that will include: 

1. Verlocal X Jackalope Pasadena Landing Page will feature all Verlocal Stores participating in the fair.

2. Visitors can easily go to this landing page to find stores and follow those they like and they can make purchases directly on this page.

3. Verlocal will also write a content article about you that will be shared across all their social media channels.

4. At the event itself, they will also promote your brands in their Experience Booth and also display you at their Verlocal Booth.

Want More? Meet some Verlocal Users: 

From Craft Store to Passion Sharer, Meet Brandi, the Succulent Master  

DIY Succulent Terrarium Experience with Brandi Tickets: https://goo.gl/prFf0Z --ABOUT BRANDI-- My love of succulents stems from my long-time residence in San Francisco's Outer Sunset neighborhood, which is full of wondrous succulents both large and small that thrive with minimal care and survive the harsh ocean winds, sandy soil, and fog.

From Wood Craftsmen to Passion Sharer, Meet Chris from Wood Thumb

Join us as we take a closer look at Chris's local experience "Triangle Shelves Woodworking" Tickets: https://goo.gl/pN5lwr Video Shot and Edited by: Bryce Charles Botorowicz Music Courtesy of www.bensound.com "" Like us on Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/verlocal/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Verlocal Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialverlocal/

As you can see there are many reasons why Verlocal is such a powerful tool! We are very excited to partner with them and we hope many of you see the value in what they have to offer, whether you are a Jackalope Pasadena vendor or not. 

If you are interested in setting up a Verlocal Business Account, simply click here 

OR....

Interested in hosting a workshop at Jackalope Pasadena this Spring? Click Below!
 

For any queries, feel free to contact us at edmund@verlocal.com

1. How did you get your start in the handmade community?

As a child I grew up in the environment of makers, enjoying the company of my dad while he crafted wooden toys for us and seeing grandpa make household items; learning alongside grandma while she patiently knitted yet another pair of socks; or being by her side in the outdoor kitchen watching 3 gallons of sour cherry jam bubble on the stove. Nothing seemed impossible and I also wanted to make everything.

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

I formulate my skincare from scratch by researching hundreds of ingredients and being inspired by nature's bounty and the physical properties of botanicals. I love creating very complex formulas with dozens of natural and exotic ingredients that harmonize to make a final product. 

3. What or Who Inspires you? 

I've always wanted to be a botanist and be surrounded by plants, to care for them and to watch them grow from seeds. I still think it's magical and my garden is full of saplings. I love knowing about the plants I use, where they originate, how they are harvested, where they are grown. I don't chase the latest trends; all formulations are the result of true inspiration and passion for botanicals. 

4. What is your creative process like?

The inspiration for a product typically arises from necessity. I imagine what would be nice to use, then do research to see what ingredients have qualities to suit that need. I love creating my formulas, which are quite intricate and involved. After working with biotech companies as a interior designer for 8 years, I've observed so many manufacturing processes that prove very handy right now. Calculating a formula and ingredient proportions is probably my favorite thing to do. I start by making few test batches, refine the formula and proceed to preparing the products for final pictures, write ups and presentations. There's a lot of technical know-how involved, and I love every aspect of the process. Later comes picture taking which as a designer by training I enjoy very much. All aspects of the process truly fulfill my passion for making things and being in sync with nature and health.

5. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

All the classics and all the new products which I'm very excited about.  Perhaps some free samples. I may play a little giveaway game prior to the event. We shall see. 

6. Where can we learn more about you?

The best place to learn about me is on Instagram where I post my daily maker's life through a lens. Occasionally you'll see my kids and healthy cooking,  in addition to the skincare making craft. There's a quick write up about me on the LENUS website, as well as my Etsy page. 

1. How did you get your start in the handmade community? 

Wee Monster got its start in the handmade community by hearing about the holiday markets from different vendors. I love being apart of such a creative and loving group of individuals. There is so much support for one another--everyone really wants the best for each other.

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

It's not every day you find trendy and comfortable kids wear. Wee Monster is unique, because our styles are right on par with adult fashion trends. Kids don't always have to wear flowers and sparkles. They can be unruly and wild. Kids should be kids.

3. What or Who Inspires you?

My kids inspired it all. They taught me how to become a better designer. Now, I have a sense of how clothes fall and styles that look best for kids. From people watching to dance, everything and anything inspires new styles each season.

4. What is your creative process like?

What's cool? What's the next trendiest thing? I do a bunch of research on fashion trends. I look at reports of what is up and coming and incorporate it into the line. Most fashion forward brands don't do kids wear, so that's where Wee Monster comes in.

5. What is the coolest artistic tip you have ever received?

Surround yourself with the most creative individuals and progressive thinkers you can find. Oh, and lots of caffeine. 

6. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

Our latest spring collection! Some highlights are rompers, muscle tees and patchwork on denim jackets.

7. Where can we learn more about you?

Website: www.weemonster.net

Instagram: www.instagram.com/wee_monster

Facebook: www.facebook.com/weemonster.kidswear

In light of the New Year, we want to take a look at what we can do to continue to grow and improve, and how to help our artisans do the same. We took notice in how popular Snapchat has become and wondered what we could do as a business to hop on the fastest growing social media platform. We're not going to lie, it was a little intimidating. We've seen snapchat used on a more personal level, posting stories for family and friends, but as a business how do you make that connection? 

We are no Snapchat pros.  However, as we begin our journey we thought we would share what we have learned so far in case you would like take the plunge as well.

First, make sure Snapchat is for you. According to Hootsuite, the largest Snapchat age demographic is 18-24 year olds, making up 37 percent of users. Followed by 25-34 year olds, with about 26 percent of Snapchatters, and about 12 percent of users are aged 35 to 54. Each company has a target demographic so look into whether or not yours is on Snapchat. 

What makes Snapchat stand out between other social media platforms is that you can utilize individual snaps (photos/videos) to create an overall snapchat story, or in other words, a video narrative. Each snap only lasts 24 hours which creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity which is always good when trying to engage your audience.  Instead of demonstrating product photography, you have the chance to be more immediate and personal. 

Here are some ways in which you can better engage your Snapchat audience:

1. Use it in real-time! This can include doing product launches, or snapping live events. Creating something new? Make it a story! Your first snap can be a mysterious "Stay Tuned" post or an incomplete snap teasing what is to come. Building excitement for your audience so that they keep coming back. Doing any live events/fairs, snap your day! 

2. Deliver private content, exclusive for your snapchat audience. This creates a sort of VIP status. This can be a sneak peak, a look behind the scenes, and/or contest. You can even post on your other social media pages that you will be doing a first look via Snapchat, to encourage your fans to join Snapchat and follow you in order to achieve VIP status ;) (make sure to include your Snapchat username so they can find you!). 

3. Offer a contest, perk, or promotion.  Offer promo codes or discounts to the fans who watch your entire Snapchat story. Tease them to watch it until the end. This would especially be good for a product reveal, or perhaps promoting an event you will be at. Snap how you are preparing for the fair, or a new product that is coming. At the end of the story, maybe they get a discount code they can use at the fair or for that product?!  

4. Feature your followers. Snapchat is more personal then other outlets so help engage your followers by enticing them. A great way to do this is to ask them to take a snap while utilizing your product! You could even create a contest utilizing this method. Post a photo with "______" and be entered to win "_________"

5. Demo your product. Use it as a guide for your followers, create a tutorial with your story. Have fun with it, since it is so personal, don't be afraid to be goofy. 

6. Reward new followers with exclusive previews! "The next 25 new followers will get an exclusive peak at a new product or giveaway." Again post on your other social networks to entice them to join you on Snapchat.

Snapchat can be tricky and we are still figuring it out ourselves.  So far, these are the things we found to be most relevant. We hope this helps, and if you do join Snapchat make sure to follow jackalopearts!

1. How did you get your start in the handmade community?

I've been a creative person since childhood but started working as a creative professional in 2007 when I started working in a photography lab. I learned so much about color, composition, style and developed an intense eye for details during my 5 years with them. After that I started my Etsy shop while in between jobs and it slowly grew while I worked in the textile industry. During this time I started sewing without fear and tried pattern making, fabric dying and doing whatever I could with fabric. It was during this time I started sewing bags and other accessories. Designing handbags was a natural transition for me because I am a little bit of a bag hoarder.

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

All of the fabrics I use are hand crafted by myself in my home studio. I hand dye, hand print and digitally design all of my patterns before sewing them into handbags, pouches, wallets and other accessories.

3. What or Who Inspires you?

The ocean and the night sky. There's nothing like a vast expanse of nothingness to get my creative mind churning. Watching the soothing waves along the Pacific Ocean or the twinkling stars in the Milky Way inspire a calming feeling of being a spec in a huge magnificent universe filled with wonder and endless possibilities.

4. What is your creative process like?

I start with a small idea and try lots of variations. My goal is to always end with a product that is unique and aesthetically works from the smallest detail to the overall piece. I'm not afraid to scrap plans and start fresh. Some details remain as a framework to build on with new ideas and details. Trial and error is my friend, I learn whenever I can. I refine my designs and patterns until I have a beautiful, professional and meticulously sewn item.

5. What is the coolest artistic tip you have ever received?

“Through the mere act of creating something—anything—you might inadvertently produce work that is magnificent, eternal, or important.” - Elizabeth Gilbert
Just get started. So many times I overthink and get all anxious about the idea of something I have in my head, that I don't even start.

6. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

Indigo dyed shibori fabrics, bright colorful patterns, canvas bags, tote bags, women's wallets, makeup bags, accessory cases, cross body purses.

7. Where can we learn more about you?
www.starlightbags.com or say hello on Instagram @mariashacreaw

Joining our 2017 Jackalope Pasadena Jury panel is Kay Yee.  We're excited to have Kay help us continue our goals with promoting the highest quality handmade artisans.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself & your background in the arts & crafts world

Education: BFA from California College of Art, Oakland CA (majored in Crafts & Metalsmithing) MFA from CSULB in Long Beach (majored in Metalsmithing, jewelry, and Crafts)

Q: What / who is your biggest inspiration?

Mentors: Roger Baird was my inspiration when I began my studies in the Bay Area in the early 70’s.

But Alvin Pine an early educator of metalwork who many of the current teachers in the area have studied metalwork with in the 60-70’s have worked with him.

Q; How did you get into your position in the arts & crafts world?

I would say that my position in the jewelry/crafts area has been that of an educator. I had taught for over 30 years at Pasadena College, and am now a Professor Emeritus. At PCC, I developed the Jewelry and Crafts certificate and program. 

Q: Tell us about a few favorites of yours: 

My two great interests are traveling to see archeological sites and studying crafts (historical & contemporary)

June Schwarcz was a enamelist and metalworker for the the Bay Area that created beautiful timeless electroformed enamel vessels that continue to inspire me.

Harlan W. Butt another metalsmith/enamelist teaches in Texas. He makes hollow ware that  incorporates cloisonné enamel and silver accents.

Carol Webb, an artist who incorporated bi-metal (of copper & silver) with photo etching to make graphic jewelry.

Q: What do you love most about the handmade movement?

There is nothing like being a maker or a craftsperson. The gratification of problem solving through creativity is a creative zone of accomplishment.

Q: What is the most important feature in an artist's application for you? 

The quality of the creativity and craftsman.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the Jackalope Arts jury?  

I am honored to join a group of jurors who wish to help promote unique quality handmade products to the community.

Q: Share some of your own work with us:

1. Copper enamel & silver vessel
2. Copper & silver enameled bowls
3. Sterling and enameled brooch

We can't believe we're already into our third year with Jackalope.  Thank you to everyone who's been there to support us along this journey.  

We're looking forward to everything that 2017 has in store and are looking forward to sharing all of that with you soon.

Pasadena Spring 2016 started the year off strong with record Jackalope attendance!

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We got a chance to help pups in three different states.  It was a really great experience working with The Pasadena Humane Society, Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies, and Arizona Humane Society this year.

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We added a bunch of really fun workshops to all of our fairs! We love getting the chance for attendees to become makers themselves and to experience the process behind a handmade item.

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We participated in Small Business Saturday in Arizona!

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We made our way to the historic McNichols Building in Downtown Denver for the first time.  What a great building in a beautiful part of the city!

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Jackalope received mentions in over 42 different stories throughout the year!  We even managed to make it onto television with KTLA, Arizona Midday, 3TV, and Fox 10 News!

You can view some of the footage here:  https://www.youtube.com/jackalopeartfair

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AND... we met a TON of awesome handmade artisans from all across the country!

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We can't wait for what's in store this year. 
Bring it on, 2017!

1. How would you describe your style? 

I strive for a balance in my work. My style is loose and somewhat raw without being too messy. Thematically my work expresses feelings of isolation, loss, and grief balanced with innocence, hope, and strength.  If art can make people feel less alone, and more united in our existence, I believe it is successful. 

2. What or who inspires you?

I'm inspired by dreams, animals, nature, dance, music, dolls, colors, patterns, and beauty in general. People inspire me who stay strong and positive despite the debilitating challenges that life can deliver. I'm also inspired by people who live boldly, often going against societal norms in order to express their personal truth, and give voice to those who have been marginalized.   

3. When do you feel the most creative?

I'm the most creative when I can let go of fear about the outcome of a painting, or the fear of messing it up. When I can work in a state of freedom, my creativity flows.

4. What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?

You will see many original paintings ranging from very small to large, as well as a large selection of prints. 

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

I coolest artistic tip I have received was in my early months as a painter, I had a short conversation with an established artist friend about the background of a painting on which I was working. He described the background as being responsible for creating the world in which my character would live. This incredibly simple, and yet obvious, idea revolutionized my understanding of the backgrounds in my work.

Find out more about Jen Herling at: http://www.jenherlingart.com/