Shop small, local, and handmade

Treasures await you at the 6th Annual Shipwreck Bead’s Artisan Winter Market

By Missy Bouchat on November 21, 2018

The big box retailers are in full swing, decking their fluorescent-lit halls with tinsel, bows, and baubles. Boxes upon boxes of kitchen gadgets, electronics, and toys line the paths while you hunt for something special and unique. You're not going to find it in there. On Saturday, we suggest you march right out those doors and into the annual Artisan Winter Market at Shipwreck Beads in Lacey.

At 10 a.m., Shipwreck will open its doors to a market of over 100 vendors, wrapping their way around Shipwreck's upper level, while the lower level, featuring the largest selecting of beads, will also remain open. A perfect place to start if you plan to DIY some of your own gifts this year. Upstairs you can peruse the incredible assortment of craftsmanship by local artists including pottery by Laura Harmon, handmade soaps by Dirty Man Soap, and hand-dyed wool from Wild Wool Farm, to name a few. Being able to meet the artists reminds us of what the holiday season is really about: kindness, love, and thinking of others without expecting anything in return. The assortment of gifts and products is vast, so you will have no problem crossing everyone off your list and will have fun doing it. This year, let your loved ones know how special they are with a thoughtful and personal gift, while supporting small businesses.

Shipwreck's Artisan Market is an inspiring and fun way to shop and support local artists. After all, Nov. 24 is Small Business Saturday, an ever-growing initiative that encourages holiday shoppers to support businesses that are small and local. As a small business, every sale, no matter the amount, counts towards their bottom line. The Artisan Market is also a great opportunity for newly starting out vendors to get their name and product out there, and Shipwreck encourages the participation as it adds diversity to the event. The current vendor list ranges in experience, with vendors who have participated in the Market since day one. Dirty Man Soap attended Shipwreck's first Winter Market, and now attends events all over the Pacific Northwest. You can find them at their booth at this year's event as well. You can also ask them about their process in making soap, and smell the amazing scents they carry like Cedarwood, Black Tea and Citrus, or Sandalwood Patchouli.

This year, don't get lost in the crowds at the mall buying what everyone else is buying. Turn the stressful task of holiday shopping into an enjoyable day admiring the artwork and handmade items at Shipwreck Bead's Artisan Winter Market. Meet the artists, touch and feel their beautiful craftwork, and support their business. Your friends and family will love you for it.

Shipwreck Bead's Artisan Winter Market, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 24, Shipwreck Beads, 8560 Commerce Pl. Dr. NE, Lacey, 800.950.4232