Miami Design District’s Gallery Walk Served Up Fashion

Gallery Walk in downtown Miami is known for its artsy community. But, did you know there are tons of designers who showcase their handmade items at the monthly event. The District Factory in the Miami Design District opens their doors to these artisans, serving unique fashion finds. More than 35 local designers had a chance to sell their goodies, which included jewelry, art and apparel!

The District Factory also featured special guest and fashionista Annie Vazquez, who is known as The Fashion Poet in her online blog.

The group was founded on the belief that you can make a living doing what you love! The District Factory encourages the entrepreneurial spirit of emerging designers and artists by facilitating exchanges with the community that result in awareness, support, and ultimately commerce. 

Calling All Crafters

Vendor space is now open for those who want to sell their handmade goodies!  On June 24^th, sellers can set up shop at the Pompano Beach City Wide Market from 10a.m. to 4 p.m.   The flea market “like” event is like a party atmosphere with music and food also available for those who plan to attend.

 The City-Wide market is unlike any other flea market in South Florida. It’s a huge monthly event with over 80 vendors.  The events will focus on unique and locally made products.   

There will also be several vintage and retro goodies, collectibles and second hand items.

If you are interested in vending—click on the link here!

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFh1VzJKSXVLLXZvcUsydnViTHJsZnc6MQ#gid=0

Covering the “Handmade Movement”

What an awesome assignment!

Last weekend—I got a chance to cover the Indie Craft Bazaar- “Spring Fling 2012” for WPLG- Local 10 News.  It’s all a part of a of a new section on the station website called “Crafty Constance.”

Today’s crafters are no longer crocheting your grandmother’s doilies. Instead, they are a part of a growing group of artists using crafts to express themselves!  South Florida has a wonderful community of “do-it- yourselfers”—who are embracing this handmade movement.

Here are some pictures from the great event! See the complete slide show by clicking here!

Expect my full story in a few weeks-on Local 10 News! 

Odd Duck Bazaar--THIS WEEKEND!!

It’s one of the BIGGEST Indie Events in South Florida- the Annual Odd Duck Craft Fair.  Over 80 vendors from across South Florida will be there selling handcrafted and vintage goods!

Last year, I was there with my Huggabeans Crochet Creations.  Sadly, I will not be vending this year (I have to work) but I will stop by to support handmade.

This year, the bazaar has moved to a new location in downtown Hollywood.  You can expect a day filled with tons of unique handmade items, tons of food and live music!

Time: Noon- 6pm

Date: March 31, 2012

Where: Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center, 1770 Monroe Street, Hollywood, FL

Cost: Only $5

Hope to see you there!

Bargain Hunting Mama

My Thrifty Mama & Me! :)

With her beautiful blue eyes and honey blonde hair, my mother knows how to “work a room.”  She is always dressed in the most stylish outfits rocking the hippest accessories.  The secret behind her wardrobe—NEVER PAY FULL PRICE.

She was born in a community of conservative spenders, living in post War World II Germany. Everyone had to find ways to save what little they had to survive.  It was during those hard times, when my mother learned the importance of finding a good bargain. 

Just last week, my thrifty mama purchased a pair of Fila Fit Performance Shoes for only $5.99! The footwear normally sells for $79.99!

Mama and her new shoes!

So how does she do it?

1.       Comparison Shop- Once you find what you are looking for, locate other stores which carry the same product.  Always look for the lowest possible price.

2.       Wait for the Sale- 9 times out of 10—the item you want WILL go on sale.  So, just wait until the item is marked down.  It may take a few weeks—but it’s worth it for the cheaper price.

3.       Shop Ross, TJ Max, Marshalls and Burlington- These stores offer 50%-75% off retail prices. Why shop at a department store—when you can get an enormous discount.

4.       Combine Deals- Use multiple coupons during sale events to get the lowest possible price.

Can you believe it-- she saved $74!!

Cute walking shoes!