Do you have a story behind your company name?

Yes! My dog Elvis was the stinkiest little guy, and so I used to call him stinky paws.

How cute! How did you get your start?
I learned to crochet when I was a kid and picked it up again when my dad passed in 2012. I learned that it was very therapeutic and then only crocheted occasionally.

Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Watching it all come together and becoming something that I created.

Must be very satisfying. What serves as inspiration for you?

My boy Elvis and my parents; I miss them all so much.

What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

Chaotic. I work two part time jobs and trying to turn my passion into something I want to do full time is insane but totally possible.

Do you have a favorite item you have made?

I think my favorite piece is the cat house I made. I used a lamp frame and made a cat like sleeve over it; creating a cat house.

What will you be bringing to the festival?

Crocheted items for fur babies, their pawrents and many other items!

We can’t wait to see you in person this May 14th & 15th for the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival!

Where to see more of Crochet for Stinky Paws:

Instagram | @Crochet_for_stinky_paws

Do you have a story behind your company name?

My father has always been proud of his last name, so naturally I became just as proud and that’s how OLIVO was founded.

We love that! How did you get started?

I was slowing down with being a fashion photographer when my daughter was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and I needed a creative outlet. I knew how much I loved handbags and spent thousands per year purchasing them so I decided I wanted to learn how to make my own!

That is so cool! What inspires you to create?

I get inspired by all sorts of things. Many times it’s simply practicality. We all need practical items in our lives to make our lives easier.

Very true. Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

Every project has a different favorite part. Personal projects, favorite part = getting it done! Work, client projects = favorite part is coming up with a new idea that actually works the first time around. Picking out the right leather for projects and having great hardware that I know will last the test of time excites me!

What is a typical day like in the studio for you?

A typical day in the studio is getting organized to get work done. I don’t work well with anything being disorganized.

Elysian Bag

Do you have a favorite item you have created?

My newest favorite item is The Elysian Bag. I love it so much because of it’s minimal look but classic design that I created from start to finish really quickly and got it right the first time!

Do you have anything special that you will be bringing to Jackalope?

This will be the first time I will be bringing saddle stitched leather goods to Jackalope which is exciting. I will also be bringing some new block printed goods like stationary and small accessories that make great stocking stuffers.

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

I miss meeting my clients in real life and being able to talk to them about my process and getting excited with them about my products. I look forward to being able to be back in a collective space with fellow artisans and others that appreciate our work.

What do you love most about California, any special memories about Burbank?

I remember my first trip to Los Angeles very clearly in 2001. I fell in LOVE immediately with the mountains and the weather. In 2002 I made it my home. Since moving to LA I have always been a “valley girl” and I wouldn’t change that. Burbank is a sweet suburb where we always join our friends for Halloween because it’s always so festive and fun.

We can’t wait to see you in person this December 11th & 12th in Downtown Burbank.

Where to see more of Olivo:

Website | byraquelolivo.com

Instagram | @byraquelolivo

Jackalope has been very fortunate to work with Brighter Future Charity since 2017. Brighter Future is a California non-profit that works with children affected by autism. Their organization pairs individuals with autism with skills coaches and volunteers at local events to help learn and practice social and professional skills. What we love about Brighter Future is their desire to help kids explore their creative passion! As they state, everyone has a gift to share.

We have had the pleasure to work with Ray’s Shack, Something Extra Candle Productions, and Vyara’s Art, three entrepreneurs a part of Brighter Future Charity. Since we can’t meet them in person this year, we wanted to give you a look behind their brands.

Ray’s Shack

Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:

My name is Ray Tate and I sell key chains and jewelry. 

Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?

It's called Ray's shack and it's a charity for a brighter future to help kids to find there skills and talent and see how creative I am so they can do it too. I did this to show my lego minecraft videos on my youtube channel, RayTate1.

Ray wanted me to sign him up at street fairs so he could pass out a business card directing people to his YouTube channel about his Minecraft LEGO World that he built. I explained to him that the booths cost money and that most of them were for artists that made something. I suggested he use my old jewelry making supplies to create some necklaces. He did his first show with six necklaces. That was four years ago. After three shows, he said “I need to make keychains, people keep telling me they don’t wear jewelry” I was most impressed by this. I sold jewelry at craft fairs for nine years and it never crossed my mind to diversify and I heard that for years. I’m so proud of Ray and how much he has grown. He is quite the salesman and very creative. 

What makes your business unique to the industry? 

I take old toys and make key chains and holiday ornaments for a recycled idea and I like doing it.

What is your favorite part of what you do?

See what creative ideas I have to make recycled new jewelry creations from broken and donated jewelry. Finding favorite characters for children and for adult customers to bring back childhood memories. 

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Something Extra Candle Productions

Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:

We are lifelong friends and candlemakers who have Down syndrome.

After taking candle classes, we decided to give our own business a shot. We make soy and beeswax candles with hemp wicks.

Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?

Our business name is Something Extra Candle Productions. We were both born with an extra chromosome, so something extra is fitting. We also try to include tea-lights or other small candles with orders.

What makes your business unique to the industry? 

Some of our candles are in unique containers, some are hand painted and some have one of a kind labels we create. We also make labels for customers with personal photos of families, pets, art etc. 

What is your favorite part of what you do?

We like being creative, thinking of new ideas and trying to improve!

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Vyara’s Art

Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:

My name is Vyara, and I create original art.

What makes your business unique to the industry?

My business is unique because I create canvases using paint, duct tape, fabrics, acrylic medium, and found objects, that tell stories about characters I created. My canvases are imaginative and colorful, and my stories are particularly unique because I’m on the autism spectrum, so my imagination and perspective is unique.

What is your favorite part of what you do?

My favorite part about creating art is seeing my imagination come to life, and sharing my stories with others.

Learn more about Ray’s Shack / Something Extra Candle Productions / Vyara’s Art:

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

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

https://instagram.com/somethingextracandles?igshid=17e2vfduao1zy

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

Learn more about Brighter Future Charity:

http://brighterfuturecharity.org/

Burbank is Jackalope’s newest home and we could not be more proud! We love expanding our handmade footprint and sharing the importance of supporting small business. Next time you are visiting Burbank, make sure to check out a few of our favorites ;)

NEXT UP:

May 16th & 17th

Downtown Burbank Arts Festival @ San Fernando Blvd

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Studio Tours Galore

Give yourself a behind the scenes look into your favorite tv shows and movies.

Walt Disney Studios, Warner Brothers, and Universal Studios all call Burbank home and offer studio tours!

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Porto’s

You haven’t eaten in Burbank until you stop at the legendary Porto’s.

Potato balls anyone?

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Shop Magnolia Park

Full of unique shops, ranging from vintage to quirky boutiques there is something for everyone! Two of our favorites; Mindfulnest - shout out to previous Jackalope juror owner Amanda Vernon, and It’s a Wrap that sells secondhand props and wardrobe from the big screen.

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Lady and Gents Night Out

On the last Friday of every month, head back over to the Magnolia Park area and enjoy tastes from over 30 food trucks parked along the streets.

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TV Show Taping

Ever wanted to be an audience member for Ellen? How about Conan? You can advance-reserve tickets to either for free and be a part of the magic.

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Hike Wildwood Canyon Park

Get out of town and step into nature in this 2.3 mile trail that will give you gorgeous views of Burbank and LA, while at the same time providing a challenging workout!

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Spend a day at Universal Studios

Just a few miles from Downtown Burbank, you can spend a day at Universal Studios. Within, you’ll find the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, full of butter beer, magic, and spells. You can even grab your own magic wand in Hogsmead.

While you’re there, make sure to check out our favorite- the Simpsons ride. For being a virtual reality roller coaster, the ride is insanely realistic, and one of the best rides around!

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Downtown Burbank Arts Festival

How can we not include the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival, who gave Jackalope Arts our Burbank home! With over four blocks of world famous animation, and handmade artisans we are so grateful to be a part of this longstanding festival.

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As we gear up for our sixth year, we want to celebrate the cities we call home with some interesting facts about each of them.

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The Cheeseburger Legend

Rumored to have been created in 1924 by a 16 year old at his father’s restaurant, The Rite Spot, in Pasadena.

However, the name “cheeseburger” was trademarked in 1935 in Denver CO.

So… where did the cheeseburger really originate? Pasadena, Denver, or somewhere in between? One thing we know is, it probably wasn’t in Burbank.

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Holidays in our cities

Every New Year is marked with the famous Rose Parade in Pasadena. Ever since it began, organizers have promised never to hold the parade on a Sunday in exchange with a pact with God that it not rain out the parade. In it’s 130 years, the parade has yet to be rained out!

Later in the year, where can you find one of the largest St. Patricks day parades? I bet you did not know that Denver has one of the largest parades in the country! Celebrate Irish culture and the start of Spring.

We are all about supporting local artisans and we would consider Norton's Winter Wonderland in Burbank as one of them! This fabulous Christmas display has been going on for more than 50 years. There are more than a dozen handmade displays including a ferris wheel, see-saw, train, angels, and carousel within.

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Historic Locations

Pasadena Ice House is the oldest comedy club in the US. It’s also home to the first ever Trader Joe’s (with the world’s tiniest parking lot), and Vroman’, the longest independent bookstore which has been open for over 120 years.

The oldest remaining Bob’s Big Boy is in Burbank and was officially declared a historic landmark in 1993.

Meanwhile, Denver is home to the unsinkable Molly Brown’s house! The activist and philanthropist who survived the historical sinking of the Titanic.

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On the big screen

Home to three major motion picture studios, Burbank could be named the movie capital of the world. It is also home to Walt Disney Animation studios who released the first fully animated film, 1937’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs!

Pasadena plays home to many on the big screen: The Gamble House = Doc Brown’s house in Back to the Future, Pasadena City Hall = HQ for Parks and Rec, Pasadena Central Library = The Law Library in Legally Blonde, and many more!

We can’t count Denver out though- Die Hard 2 was filmed at the old Stapleton Airport, and the stadium in Blades of Glory is the Pepsi Center. Yippee-ki-yay!

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Animals

What’s with the squawking? Wild parrots fill Pasadena and urban legend has it that the exotic flock began with birds that escaped a burning pet store, or were released from Busch Gardens when it closed.

You wouldn’t expect horseback riding to be so popular in the middle of the city, but Burbank is home to a large equestrian park and provides over 50 miles of trails!

Denver is the city of dogs. No, really! It was reported that Denver has more dogs than children. There were about 158,000 dogs in Denver, and only 140,000 children according to the last U.S Census.

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One thing we noticed right away when we first took a walk down San Fernando Boulevard in the heart of Downtown Burbank was the street art. From large scale murals front and center, to smaller pieces down an alley, the cities love for art was prevalent. With the 17th annual Downtown Burbank Arts Festival coming up this May, (our second year joining in!) we want to highlight a few of our favorite pieces. As you’ll see, our own mascot, Stanley, makes a debut in each of the pieces during our stroll too, can you spot him?!

Much of the street art found in Downtown was commissioned by Blank Canvas LA. An outdoor media company who specializes in handmade murals and custom designs.

First stop on our mural tour would be any instagrammers paradise. Be sure to check out the “Burbank” mural on the side of Starbucks (Palm/ San Fernando Boulevard), see above photo. The bright colors in contrast with the jet black outline makes this one of our favorites. You can spot additional flower art by the Make-up Design School!

Another one of our favorites is the “Burbank Hillside”. We loved it so much we even used it for our event promotion teasing where we would pop up next. This one is not as obvious to find- see if you can locate it in May ;)

The most recent mural from Blank Canvas LA can be found at the Burbank Town Center. Playing tribute to the cities history and its entertainment routes- this has quickly become a must see piece.

And finally, we need to mention “Made in Burbank.” We are suckers for supporting local and small business, so of course we love this ode to just that. This mural is also not as obvious to spot so make sure to fully immerse yourself to every twist and turn- even if that means taking a break to recharge at one of the many restaurants along the way.

We hope to see you out this May at the 17th annual Downtown Burbank Arts Festival, May 16th & 17th from 11am-7pm each day. Come see over 200 handmade artisans and animators spread out amongst four blocks from Magnolia to Angeleno!

We have a Summer state of mind now that the weather is warmer and it is staying lighter later! Here are our picks to jumpstart the new season!

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The Tut Tut

Olivo
Price: $125

We think the blue mimics the ocean waves, so naturally this has become our new favorite beach bag! Let the waves hit your feet, and the sand be your seat.

https://www.byraquelolivo.com

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Rafiki Red Friend Sandal

RoHo
Price: $112

These will be your new summer go to sandal for both comfort and style!

https://loveroho.com/

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Stone Gray Convertible Shirt - Long

Velvet Lamb
Price: $50

Wear it long or tie it up, this convertible shirt makes the perfect swimsuit coverup!

https://www.velvetlamb.com

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Amber and Blue Shell Soutache Necklace

Zina Designs
Price: $125

Carry your love of the sea on you, literally, with this shell necklace. Between the sandals and this necklace, you will be a walking fashion statement.

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

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Karma Monstera Set

Lulo’s Swim
Price: $100

Take in the sun, sand and surf in your new bikini! Tis the season for beach parties is it not?

https://www.luloswim.com/

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Strawberries Sandwich Bag

Pontigo
Price: $9

Pack your next lunch in style with these adorable sandwich and snack bags!

https://www.pontigo.org

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Green Shell Vase

Ceramics by Mims
Price: $80

It is time to bring out that summer time decor. This shell vase is perfect for a table centerpiece or on your mantel.

http://www.mimsellisceramics.com

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So Lit- DIY Brightening Face Mask

Belle & Beast Organics
Price: $25.40

Get your summer time complexion ready! You will both brighten and nourish your skin, it is a win win.

https://belleandbeastorganics.com

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Don't miss your chance to shop all of our Jackalope Burbank artisans in person this May 18th & 19th at the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival. Click below to add us to your iCal calendar!

Life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother. Here are some of our favorite picks to show your mother just how much you care this Mother’s day!

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Anthos Leaf Bib Necklace Ombré

Carla de la Cruz
Price: $130

Diamonds are a girls best friend, how about all jewelry is a girls best friend! Your mother will love this statement piece.

https://carladelacruzjewelry.com

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Cabernet Two-Zip Wristlet

Studio Auckland
Price: $73

Who doesn’t love a wristlet? How about a wristlet made with cork?! The ease of having everything on you so you can just grab and go.

https://studioauckland.com/

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Mother’s Day Bouquet Card

Sketchy Notions
Price: $4.50

Pair this cute card with a floral bouquet and you have got yourself a winning gift!

https://sketchynotions.com/

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Mother Dish

Rooted Clay & Paper
Price: $15

The perfect size to keep her jewelry safe, she will think about you every time she see’s it!

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

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Lem’me Surprise You

Delight Patisserie
Price: $16

Mom have a sweet tooth? Satisfy her tastebuds with this sweet treat that comes from the zest of fresh lemons.

https://www.delightpatisserie.com

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Body Mist Spray - Lavender & Flowers

Francesco Palmieri
Price: $14

Made with essential oils, this spray is perfect to use on the body or even around the house. The soothing scent of lavender will help to ease the mind.

https://francescopalmieri.us

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Monster Plant

Unique Clay
Price: $30

Mom have a green thumb? Put a smile on her face with this adorable monster air plant holder!

http://unique-clay.com

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Lavender Oak Soy Candle

RX Candles
Price: $19.99

Relax and take in the scent of lavender mixed with woodsy notes. Now all you need is a good book and bottle of wine, and mom has her next night in planned out!

https://www.rxcandles.com

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Don't miss your chance to shop all of our Jackalope Burbank artisans in person this May 18th & 19th at the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival. Click below to add us to your iCal calendar!

Keep calm and get your Cinco De Mayo on!! Whether you are choosing to celebrate or sitting this one out, here are a few picks to get any party going.

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Serena Crown

Loschy Designs
Price: $110

Any excuse to get dressed up is a good excuse! Make a statement where ever you go with the Serena crown.

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

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Postcard Set

Mis Nopales Art
Price: $6

Send some love to your family and friends near or far with these day of the dead postcards.

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

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Skeleton Plushie

SaoZen
Price: $

DTF, Down to Fiesta! These skeleton plushies make perfect party favors or decorations!

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

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Blood Orange and Chili Pepper Cocktail Mixer

Yes Cocktail Co
Price: $15

This ain’t your average cocktail! Jazz up that tequila and mix in this blood orange and chili pepper cocktail mixer!

https://yescocktailco.com/

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Caliente Tee

Preston and James
Price: $24.95

You are what you wear, so wear this Caliente tee and get the party started!

https://prestonandjames.com

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Nam Prik Sauce

Nam Prik Chili Sauce
Price: $6.99

Spice up those backyard tacos with this chili sauce!

http://nampriksauce.com/

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Taco Serving Tray

Elizabeth Caparaz
Price: $52

Tequila, taco’s and naps….in that order. Serve up those delicious taco’s with this taco serving tray.

www.elizabethcaparaz.com

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Don't miss your chance to shop all of our Jackalope Burbank artisans in person this May 18th & 19th at the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival. Click below to add us to your iCal calendar!

With Easter coming up this weekend, we thought it was only fitting to highlight some of our favorite Easter inspired pieces all by our Jackalope Burbank artisans!

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Hinagiku Twilly Scarf

Tiepology
Price: $20

Flowers are an Easter staple, so even if you do not have a green thumb, you can still rock them with this floral scarf that can be worn around the neck or as a headband!

https://www.tiepology.com

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Screen Printed Rabbit Pillow

Ecarlate boutique
Price: $34-$44

Dancing Rabbits, how can you not smile at this?! The perfect throw pillow to jazz up any room of the house!

http://www.ecarlateboutique.com

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Butterfly Soap

ALJ Skincare
Price: $

Add a little sparkle to your bathroom with these butterfly soaps, so cute your guests won’t want to use it!

www.aljskincare.com

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Zunny - Kid’s Bunny Blanket

Fuzzie Dot
Price: $85

Does your little one need a comfortable place to nap and play while the family is over? Try this Zunny Bunny blanket!

https://fuzziedot.com

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Apricot Ginger Jam

Laura Ann’s Jams
Price: $8.99

A great host/hostess gift, or something for you to serve your guests as they arrive! Spread it on crackers, or you can even add it to champagne for a kick ;)

https://www.lauraannsjams.com/

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Coco Dress

S. Kanouni
Price: $175

The perfect dress for the holiday whether it is spent with friends and family, at church, or out and about!

https://www.skanouni.com/

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Mugs

Betsey Carter Ceramics
Price: $

Start the day off right with a nice hot cup of joe in these adorable striped mugs!

https://betseycarter.com

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Tetris Wallet

Stephanie Pecino
Price: $30

Grab and go, the perfect accessory for your Easter adventures. Hand painted, one-of-a-kind, colorful canvas wallet!

https://www.stephaniepecina.com

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Don't miss your chance to shop all of our Jackalope Burbank artisans in person this May 18th & 19th at the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival. Click below to add us to your iCal calendar!