where to look
for that special gift

Gift baskets are the perfect gift anytime

Visit craft shows for unique gifts

In the Fall is when it really starts. True, there are craft shows all through the summer but by Fall the tempo begins to change. With the big gift giving season rapidly approaching and as the weather begins to cool a bit, many folks head for these great outdoor events. this is a wonderful source of small items for stockings and gift baskets. They know that there is no better place to find unique gifts. And what better way to spend an afternoon, browsing for gifts that you won’t find in any box store or mall?

Crafts is a tradition that began with the Arts and Crafts Movement of the late 1800’s and continues today in even greater popularity. From county fair grounds to the prestigious juried craft guild shows, artists of all fields are still doing what those that began the tradition did: offering a personal expression of beauty and function as an alternative to machine made products.

If you are looking for a fun outing, what could be better than a place where you can meet artists and craftspeople displaying and demonstrating their wares? Within these shows there are gifts to fit every pocketbook. Instead of mass produced products from foreign lands, it’s a way to have a taste of something truly American. It’s also a way to have a wonderful experience by walking among a group of very diverse and talented people, to talk to these artists and touch their work. Some of the bigger exhbitors offer minisites so visitors can contact these artisans after the show.

Each one has a story to tell about their life work that makes owning one of their pieces a personal experience. Here are imaginative artisans making beautifully crafted objects with their own hands, willing to take the time to share their knowledge and experience with anyone who asks. Knowing the story makes it more meaningful when shopping for a gift.

As you roam from booth to booth looking for something that speaks to your muse, there is bound to be something that catches your eye. Give in to the impulse or you will regret it later and be sure to ask the artist to sign it. After all, you just bought a work of art. And be sure to ask for biographical material or a business card. Knowing something about the artist will make it a much more meaningful gift to the new owner.

Having found the perfect gift may inspire you to new gift wrapping ideas. If not, take a peek at some wrapping ideas for examples that will help.