Handmade

Over the last few years, we have participated in a few local farmer’s markets including the new Shelton Farmer’s Market. In addition, we are proud to be a part of Celebrate Shelton’s Downtown Handmade Market. As I peddle our breads & spreads, I look around at all of the specialty items and their proud makers. I am in awe of the craftsmanship. Heather in the corner has spent countless hours crocheting hats and shawls in a rainbow of colors and textures. Lisa and her daughter Gabbi have turned their passion for their animals into a line of pet treats made from local all natural ingredients. Kevin and his wife have developed a line of kick-ass BBQ sauces which sell out every time. I haven’t even mentioned the soaps made by Lisa whose medicinal properties have been meticulously researched and balanced in just the right proportions. The list goes on and on.

These are people who have taken their passions and created products to share with their local community. It is usually done after their 9-5 jobs and squeezed into their busy lives. They light up when someone asks the origin of their coconut lemongrass soap. They will happily tell you exactly where the sweet potatoes came from which became the biscuits in your bag. And if there is ever a problem with an item you get from either the farmer’s market or the handmade market you can bet that the issue will be resolved immediately and that you will be over-compensated for your inconvenience.

When it comes to buying something handmade, there is more to it than just an exchange of money for a product. There is a transfer of love involved. The loaf of bread you hold in your hand was not just spit out of a production line in Chicago and transported halfway across the country needing preservatives and chemicals for “freshness”. It was made last night and packed this morning just for the people at the market. Just for you. And we want you to love eating that loaf of bread as much as we love making it.

The craftsmen at these local markets take a chance every week. They work hard at what they do. Sometimes nobody shows up to the market and they have to lug a carload of unsold items back home. Still, they will work hard to replenish their goods in the hopes that next week will bring even more people interested in sharing some positive energy.

I invite you to visit one of your local handmade and farmer’s markets soon. Besides getting out in your local community, you will appreciate the true benefit of purchasing a product made with love.