Saluting women entrepreneurs
Sunday, October 29, 2006 7:05 AM PST
somethin' to talk about
Julie Engel
It is that time again - the time for holiday bazaars. I love attending the bazaars around the area because they always feature unique items handcrafted by local residents. Last weekend a new bazaar started an annual tradition with the first women's fair at the Olde School Community Center.
The idea to salute women entrepreneurs with a women's-only fair was exciting, especially since October is both Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness month. The businesswomen were varied with their crafts and items, and it was fun to visit with each woman at her respective booth.
Of course, my favorite candle maker, Julie Krygsman, New Plymouth, was in attendance. I knew she was there right as I walked through the door because she was burning one of her chestnut and brown sugar candles. There were signs marking the way, but all I needed was my nose to arrive at the final destination.
Michelle Metzger, Fruitland, owner of AmyMichelle products, organized the event because she said she wanted to give Christian businesswomen the chance to show their stuff at a women's fair. I thought it was a great idea, and I hope it continues in the future.
The next booth was Kami Teramura's Tastefully Simple display. The best part about food booths is the free samples, and Teramura, Ontario, had samples of pumpkin spice bread, beer bread and an awesome powdered chai tea. Some of the items looked mighty tasty, and I may have to buy some of the gift baskets instead of Hickory Farms this year.
I then sauntered down to Kris Piper's Stampin' Up booth. I began talking with Piper, Midvale, and she offered to help me make a Christmas card.
I am a pretty crafty person, and I loved making my own card - it was so easy. It was a very classy card, too - I'll have to remember that for this holiday season.
I then received a free tea light from Piper's neighbor, Shirley Todd for PartyLite. Not only does PartyLite have candles, but it also has beautiful candle holders as well. There was even a Tiffany-style lamp holder.
The ladies from the Weiser Curves for Women were pumped, and I came away from that booth with a free breast cancer pen. The last booth I visited happened to be my favorite because the woman running it - Vale's own Tammy Chamberlain - had tons of handmade jewelry. I'm a sucker for a nice pair of earrings, and I ended up finding two pairs for Christmas presents this year. Every color was represented, and she also had wine charms for wine bottles.
Chamberlain has been making jewelry for about three years, and just started going to shows this year. She is the owner of Dazzle Designs, and even does custom orders.
I was very impressed by the women entrepreneurs at the fair. I love to see women succeeding in business, and this bazaar was proof local women are working hard for their money.
I recommend attending the local bazaars through the holiday season, and especially this one next year.
