Our holiday gift exchange at work got a makeover this year! We requested that everyone bring a $10 Virginia made product or homemade craft in place of the typical gift cards, coffee mugs and gag gifts. What a great way to support local artists and industries while reducing the carbon footprint of our holiday spending. Fabulous!
So, homemade just wasn’t an option for me. I have Pinterest failure written all over every piece of artwork I’ve created since the second grade! So I set my mind to finding a great Virginia made product that was sure to be enjoyed by all. I stopped by a couple grocery stores and even a couple mom and pop shops, but the selection of Virginia made products was very limited and disappointing. Then my mom called to say she had seen a sign for the Poquoson Art League Open House and Gallery. It was the last day of the event so I dashed right over to check out all the options.
My shopping experience was amazing. I was impressed with the prices, selection, staff and, most of all, talent! And I was super excited to find many crafts made of recycled materials! I saw crafts made from reclaimed wood, broken china, seashells, old furniture and even repurposed quilts. And the ambiance was perfect – no loud, busy crowds, just Christmas music, relaxation and free refreshments. My desperation to find a good Virginia made product was quickly replaced with my inability to decide on just one thing! Needless to say, I ended up leaving with much more than my $10 gift exchange present!
So take this advice. Avoid the craziness of trying to find a parking spot at one of the area malls. Don’t get into a screaming match with a stranger over the last $50 deal at the big box store. Instead slow it down. Check out a local farmer’s market, craft fair or art league to find those perfect gifts without the headache. I can assure you you’ll have a much better time if you do.
For a sampling of upcoming farmer’s markets and craft shows, visit the askHRgreen.org calendar.