A Hub of Activity On Dec. 1

Although it was drizzly outside, the warmer temperatures ensured that people continually came by the fair to check out the goods. As such, we wrapped up the first weekend on a high note.

There were a number of exhibitors who were available again and a few new faces as well.

The range of items to select from was a good balance of food, clothing, jewellery, art and useful or fun items to make life simpler or more enjoyable.

'Sparkplug' was a great booth to stop by and see.  Not only to see, but to 'sniff' out.  They offered three types of coffee - Dark Sparks, which is their darkest coffee, a medium blend called Winter Tuneup, and then my personal favourite, Ugly Christmas Sweater which was a perfect Christmas season blend that included ginger.  This coffee was quite fantastic, and if you're as big of a fan as many were that came to the show, you can sign up to have it delivered to your house on a regular basis.  Sparkplug's prices ranged from $14 - $18.

This booth's products were quite remarkable and unique.  At first glance, it appears to simply be an attractive assortment of jewelry, and yes, indeeed it is; however, 'iSOLA Jewelry' also strengthens your body against radiation, which now, more than ever, is extremely useful and important.  You may be wondering how this is possible.  There is a lengthier explanation than this, which is why you should come by the show and talk to Veronica personally, but essentially, by wearing these pieces, you shield and neutralize electromagnetic radiation within the vicinity (as found in cell phones, computers, WiFi and microwaves).  iSOLA's prices range from $20 - $300, making it possible for anyone to own one of these beautiful items.

New to the fair on Sunday was 'Divining/Designing'.  This exhibitor offered a stunning selection of treasure bags, pendulums, jewellery and fine art.  The range of colour in the bags was impressive, as well as the quality of the fabrics used.  In addition, the jewellery was fascinating in that each piece was thematic, with a story associated with it, inspired by goddesses of many cultures.  Prices ranged from $25 - $85.

Seeking a new stuffed toy for the kid who has it all? Or simply looking to add to your collection of exotic pillows? These adorable owl pillows from 'Tudaz Trendz' can certainly serve as both.  Each one is made from reused high quality fabrics - so extremely eco conscious, and comes with their own name. A true collectors item, and since each one is one-of-a-kind, you could create your own owl family with each member distinctly different.  We hope you had a chance to come by the show since there was a show special - owl ornaments, only available for sale at the Artisans' Gift Fair.  The owl ornaments were $11.95 and the owl pillows were $39.95.    

Unique is a great word to describe the jewelry designed by 'Simone Collins Jewelry'.  A picture does not do these justice.  Inspired by animals, plants, and/or fossils within nature, each piece is designed to compliment the subject matter with appropriate beading and adornments.  A guaranteed conversation starter and a wonderful collector's item.  Prices were extremely affordable, ranging from $8 - $35.

We were fortunate to have 'Very Vanilla Food' at the fair again for 2013.  At this booth you could find a wide selection of vanilla flavoured goods that are all made by hand.  There were extracts, sugars, powders and mulled wine mixes.  These items would make the perfect stocking stuffer or gift for the holidays.  Prices ranged from $6 - $14.

Also with us again this year was 'E & A Jewelry'.  Their collection of jewelry was suitable for all ages and tastes.  I particularly liked these two pieces that had exquisite colours and shapes.  E & A Jewelry is the perfect final touch for any casual or elegant outfits and will definitely draw attention.  Their prices were remarkable, ranging from $15 - $60.

A show is not complete without a great selection of artwork.  'Catherine Orr' took her beautiful photographs and transferred them onto cards, suitable to send for Christmas or other special occasions.  You could also obtain a larger print to frame for your house or to give to a friend/family member.  Prices ranged from the affordable price of $4 up to $75.

Interested in staying calm over the holidays? or awake?  Perhaps 'Butterfly Aromatics' is just the solution you're seeking.  They offered a selection of aromatherapy necklaces, reed diffusers and sachets that all offer to help you concentrate, keep you calm or wake you up.  As an added bonus, each item was aesthetically quite impressive - a great addition to the decor in one's home.  Scents included lavender or Egyptian dried spearmint and were affordably priced from $3 - $15.

This exhibitor was extremely popular.  Little girls and adults alike gathered around to see demonstrations on how 'Cool Combs' work.  You can fasten a french twist, secure your hair half up, secure a bun, use it to hold a pony tail, or create other hair-do's with this funky little clip.  They came in many different colours to suit different tastes and outfits.  These simple yet effective hair accessories are made extremely well and guaranteed to last a lifetime.  We hope you had a chance to swing by as they offered a show special - purchase 2 and get a 3rd one for free.  Each comb was $15.

We'll wrap up today's post with the goods from 'Broken Images', who joined us again for 2013.  These beautiful stain glass ornaments, necklaces, pendants and mosaic mirrors were delightful.  I was particularly fond of the mirrors and could envision one up in a sun room or enclosed garden area.  Prices on these products ranged from $5 - $40.

This only covered a small section of who exhibited at our show this past weekend.  We hope you had a chance to swing on by.  If you didn't, take a moment to pop by next weekend to see some of these exhibitors or to view a new selection of products to choose from.

Opening Weekend for 2013!!

We hope you had a chance to come by the Tranzac today.  The selection was excellent, with a diverse range of products from funky accessories, stunning jewellery to baked goods and freshly made roasted coffee.  There was truly an item for anyone.

There were a few vendors that were only available at the show today.  We hope you had a chance to see them before end of day.

'Pattibow Catering' was one such vendor.  This booth had a great array of baked goods - a perfect gift at a Christmas party, as well as knitted goods, of which included 'smoker's' or 'texter's' gloves - fingers free when need be! These gloves were quite the popular item.  Prices ranged from $5 - $20.

Another vendor only available today was 'Shawn Patt Designs'.  This jewellery was stunning and affordable for the quality, ranging from $30 - $80.  The designs were appropriate for casual or dressed up attire and would satisfy the high standards of a fashionista! This collection included hand-dyed fair trade silk necklaces that were truly one-of-a-kind.

A picture does not do these cards justice - designed by 'Ashley Lennox', her stunning works of art where transferred into these witty and charming Christmas cards.  Not only did she sell a vast selection of beautiful greeting cards, but she also had lovely journals and felted crafts.  Her prices ranged from $6 - $60.

Another jewelry booth which offered great colours and selection, was that of 'JET. Designs' - yet another vendor who was only at the show today.  Funky, fun and vibrant are the three words that come to mind when describing these amazing pieces. The stylish shapes and colours would be the perfect finishing touch to a favourite outfit.  The prices were equally as remarkable, ranging from $7 - $30.

We were thrilled to have the artwork of 'David Vasquez' at the show.  He's a very well known artist in the Toronto area and his work can be found in many galleries.  At today's show he offered a vast selection of oil paintings and prints.  As such, one could find gorgeous prints for an affordable fee of $35, or if you preferred, a larger work of art on canvas for $789.

Our final vendor who was only available today is 'Coco & Lolita'.  They had a lovely selection of handmade, one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces that were right on trend.  I was particularly interested in the long necklaces that adorned their back wall, as seen above.  These would make any outfit look truly amazing. Coco & Lolita also offered leather jewellery.  The prices were affordable, ranging from $10 - $35.

Looking for the perfect gift on a cold winter's day? 'Simply Simple' had a colourful assortment of Infinity scarves that are easy to wash and match to different coats and sweaters.  This would be a great addition to any girl's scarf collection for the affordable fee of $20.

Are you into silks, denim, vivid colours and patterns? If so, 'Cheeky Monkey' is the booth to visit.  The designer - Lisa Orchard, incorporates her own photographic images onto her clothing, making these truly unique must-haves. She offers a fantastic selection of denim jeans, jackets, skirts, silk shirts and scarves.  If you missed your chance to see her today, you will have another chance to see her booth again at our show but don't wait too long!  Items range in price from $15 - $95.

Seeking custom cards? Want to amaze friends and family with a message that's as unique as the image? Then stop by the booth of 'Uta Peikert'.  She is an artist extraordinaire, offering a range of stunning watercolour greeting cards, Batik on cloth, as well as photos of her own paintings in an easy to frame/hang size.  Uta's prices range from $5 - $80, making it affordable to own beautiful, original works of art.

Returning for 2013 is 'Studio No 9'.  Monica Cranwell, the creative genius behind these collectables has added to her roster of items.  You can still purchase one of her delightful 'mutants', or if you prefer, commemorate the Canadian penny in the form of jewellery.  Or perhaps you might want to place your child's artwork on the fridge, then come on by and pick up some custom made magnets.  There is also a large selection of found image style jewellery to make a statement with or cat toys to treat your kitty.  Studio No 9's prices range from $3 - $50.

 I'll wrap up today's posting with 'SingingBird Instruments'.  These beautiful handcrafted autoharps are produced right in Toronto's Junction by Tim Gauntley-Luthier.  You can purchase an instrument carved from Mahogany, Spruce, Western Cedar and other exotic woods.  The autoharp is perfect for those convinced they can't do music.  Swing by Tim's booth to learn more about this.  The elaborate craftsmanship of each instrument will certainly be a conversation piece regarding its aesthetics or from hearing its beautiful sound.  These instruments range from $500 - $1,500.

This only covers a small portion of the range of vendors and products that were available today.  Please come on by tomorrow and see what's in store.  With free entry, you have nothing to lose!

Photos provided by Freshly Viewed

The Artisans' Gift Fair for 2013 is Fast Approaching!

Greetings shoppers!

Get ready, as the Artisans' Gift Fair is approaching soon for this year!  We will have a new collection of goods for sale starting November 30th.  Since each weekend has a different selection of vendors, don't limit yourself to only dropping by once.  We highly recommend you try to come by each weekend to see what unique gifts work for your friends, family and loved ones.  Since it's free, you have nothing to lose!

Once all of our vendors have confirmed their spots, we will be updating the website shortly with a new selection of retailers for 2013, highlighting what they will be offering.

We look forward to seeing you!

Artwork provided by Freshly Viewed

The Artisans' Gift Fair comes to a close for 2012

It's incredible how fast December flew by.  The final day of the Artisans' Gift Fair was bustling with people seeking final items for their loved ones.  The atmosphere was upbeat as everyone was in the holiday spirit.

So on that note, this is the final post and vendor spotlight for 2012.  Sunday had a great selection of products, with many new faces to see.

To begin, 'Earth Faerie' had a large assortment of jewelry with beautiful ornate details and lovely colours.  This particular set would make a great statement while at a Christmas party or holiday event.  The price range was suitable for all types with items from $5 - $200.

If you're someone who enjoys making a fashion statement, then 'Kuru Accessories' would have been an ideal booth to visit.  These gorgeous pieces made from recycled and luxury leathers, mounted on sterling silver chains are a must have.  The sensation of wearing them is unique as they move and feel like feathers.  Prices ranged from $45 - $112.

There are those who have just about anything you can think of and are challenging to shop for.  If you know someone like this, '7 Touches of Bliss' might have been just the booth to visit.  A wide assortment of items that were fun and attractive in nature such as necklaces, figurines, essential oils, hair bands with feathers, and the list goes on.  Prices ranged from $15 - $50.

These items from 'Sheri STRanger' were quite exquisite - A wide selection of  jewelry and fashion apparel.  The clothing was one-of-a-kind with Sheri's own artwork printed onto the fabrics, then converted into dresses, tops, ties, etc.  Prices ranged from $20 - $250.

These items from 'Eric Essa' truly belonged in a museum.  Each necklace is hand carved and unique.  The sophistication of the carvings is reminiscent of earlier times.  Eric also creates customized pieces for people.  His prices are extraordinarily affordable ranging from $50 - $100.

'Little Green Design'   had beautiful jewelry with a native flair.  There were far too many pieces to capture, with an assortment of necklaces and earrings that were delicate gold or silver, or bold and colourful.  Prices ranged from $20 - $40.

Similar to the 22nd, the quality of the pottery that was available at the show was astounding.  'Caroline Yu Designs' had a selection of bowls, cups and other kitchen items that incorporated pleasant earth tones and cool blues.  Many of the pieces also had painted designs that were the perfect final touch.  Prices ranged from $8 - $65.

 
'Kozy' was the perfect name for this line of products - specifically 'Kozy Potz'.  There were numerous tea pot cozies, stockings, bodum covers and other useful household products.  The colours were endless too, to ensure a suitable match to your kitchen colour scheme.  Prices ranged from $15 - $20.

And on the note of 'home' products, 'Stained Glass by Leslee' had just about any kind of design you could imagine for stain glass ornaments and window decals.  It was literally impossible to capture it all, but while I was standing there a customer remarked on how much she loved Leslee's products so she was certainly creating waves with her work.  There was also a selection of framed images available that had a UK flair.  Prices ranged from $1 - $50.

So that concludes these updates for this year's show.  I hope that you found this information helpful when sourcing out ideas for gifts.  We look forward to seeing you next year!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Photos provided by Battey-Pratt Designs

Last weekend to get that extra special item!

I can hardly believe it's the final weekend of the Artisans' Gift Fair.  Today has been extremely busy as shoppers come through seeking their final items and possibly something unique as an added bonus.

We had another great selection of new vendors today and for many, today is their last day so hopefully you had a chance to come by. Tomorrow we will have another group of new faces and products as well.

This exhibitor had a great selection of gift items.  If you're interested in comfortable and stylish slippers or a colourful bag, scarf or hat then visit the booth from 'Kwool Things'.  Prices ranged from $5 - $40.

Searching for organic body products that work? Then come by 'Eli's Body Shop'.  A wonderful selection of soaps, body butters, moisturizers, lip balms and many other soothing items.  Prices ranged from $5 - $25.

This booth had such a wonderful assortment of items that were truly original in nature.  Bicycle seat covers, vintage tie belts, glasses cases and vinyl record napkin holders and bowls.  That's only a small subset of what 'Divinyl Art' and 'ndthreads' had available.  Divinyl Art's prices ranged from $4 - $15 and ndthreads' prices ranged from $20 - $30.

And on the note of vinyl check out the selection from 'Amy Hoare'.  She creates beautiful images on vinyl records, as well as on canvas.  Her use of bright and fun colours extends to a delightful selection of stuff animals as well. Prices ranged from $10 - $80.

Looking for a unique center piece for your dining room or living room cabinet? These stunning pottery pieces created by 'Jills' Objets' are exquisite with ornate details and beautiful muted shades throughout each bowl, vase or mug.  Considering the workmanship, prices are extremely reasonable, ranging from $15 - $50.

A show is not complete without the  tasty goodies!  'The Travelling Baker' had a delicious selection of Marshmallow, fudge, caramel, and maple brittle treats with a unique combination of flavours.  Free samples were being handed out so don't miss out!  Prices ranged from $5 - $20.

The items for sale at 'Yellow Yellow Designs' had a stunning selection of colours.  These pillows, aprons, baby mats and pot holders were bright, cheerful and contemporary - the best of all worlds :).  Prices ranged from $8 - $30.

On the note of bright and cheerful, the products from 'Ascension' really hit the mark.  A great selection of gifts for girls, with hair clips, pouches, hair bands, dresses, etc.  The colours really pop and make a fashion statement. Prices ranged from $5 - $40.

Wow was the first word that came to mind with the delicious syrup I tasted from 'Pure Vanilla Products'.  A flavour I haven't yet experienced until discovering this treasure.  I highly recommend popping by and visiting their booth.  You can purchase a variation of vanilla products and gourmet syrups.  Prices ranged from $10 - $20.

'Madstone Soapery' had a fantastic selection of handmade bath and body products. A delightful array of scents, colours and pampering products were available and prices were great with a range of $4 - $16.

And last but not least, there was a huge variation of fun and intriguing products at the booth of 'Jackelope Fine Art & Craft'.  Vibrant and colourful hair clips and hat pins with exotic feathers, buttons of various sorts, fur collars, felted figures, earrings and the list goes on.  Prices ranged from $3 - $65.

Today was great as people were in the holiday spirit, especially with snow on the ground which was a pleasant surprise.  

Tomorrow's the last day, so take a moment to come on by and check us out!

Photos provided by Battey-Pratt Designs

Great food, accessories, clothes and so much more!

The weather outside was frightful but inside was quite delightful!  Yes it was a bit of a dreary rainy day but that didn't put a damper on the vibe of the show and mood of shoppers and exhibitors alike.

Once again, we had a great variety of one-of-a-kind products - a perfect gift for that extra special someone in your life, after all, a unique person is deserving of an equally unique item.

Today's show had an interesting booth from 'Biljana Art'.  Not only did they have a great selection of artwork, but were offering 'intuitive reading' sessions.  This booth had a lot of different types of products, and in this case, services, so I hope you had a chance to check them out.  Prices ranged from $5 - $100.

Once again there was a spectacular selection of jewelry. 'Zavitz Dezigns' had a remarkable selection of pearls and semi-precious stones to select from with beautiful iridescent qualities.  Prices ranged from $20 - $300.

Yet another impressive display of jewelry was seen at the booth of 'From Boba With Love'.  In particular the turquoise and red stones really stood out to me, but what was also impressive was the vast selection of styles to suit anyone's taste.  There was also stunning framed images to select from and stylish scarves. Prices ranged from $10 - $30.

I thought that this was the most charming and humorous selection of ornaments I've ever laid my eyes on.  This cute penguin in particular would be a wonderful addition to a Christmas tree!  Designed by 'Spotted Cat Creations', they also had a selection of figurines available. Prices ranged from $5 - $20.

And on the theme of humorous and charming ornaments, who can pass up glitter bacon? or perhaps punny magnets?  It's the perfect conversation starter or gift for those who seem to already have everything.  These witty products were created by 'She Said Pop' with prices ranging from $2 - $40.

Looking for funky and contemporary designs? Interested in making a fashion statement? Then 'Luminus By CW' is the booth to check out.  This is only a glimpse of the gorgeous pieces available.  Prices were reasonable ranging from $25 - $75.

This year I've seen fashions with scarves escalate so I found this creation interesting in that it's almost a variance of the scarf concept - somewhere in the middle between casual jewelry and wearing a scarf.  These pieces, designed by 'Diane Rowe' come in several colours to accessorize any outfit and are well priced from $5 - $10.

This was a great booth from 'Karma Co-op' - A business that promotes reduced packaging, selling organic, local and fair trade products.  This is a members-owned food co-operative with a vast range of products and prices. Today's show had items that ranged in price from $0.25 - $80.

Sick of mass produced holiday or Christmas cards? If so, then check out the selection at 'HandCraftedCards'. These designs have a minimalistic and charming appeal that will differentiate you from the pack.  Each card is $4.50 or $20 for 5.

This booth from 'The Basic Elements' had a wonderful selection of handmade vegan and organic beauty alternatives.  Offering a range of products from lip balms to facial cleansers and scrubs, prices were from $4 - $12.

These were the prettiest soap bars I've seen in quite some time!  Today's selection were Christmas themed in their colours.  What makes this booth and their items unique was the cause behind the product offering - raising money to help children in 3rd world countries go to school and obtain supplies.  'Endeavor' is also committed to raising enough money to provide clean drinking water as well.  Prices ranged from $4 - $10.

There's only one more weekend remaining so if you haven't had a chance to come by, make sure you do!  Many of the vendors that have been showcased so far may...or may not be there, but know that there will still be a full array of exhibitors and their products to select from.

Photos provided by Battey-Pratt Designs