Alliday Allstar: Halfway Home Greyhound Adoption!

There are some that have the golden touch when it comes to wrapping presents and there are others that don't.  And there's nothing wrong with that!  Luckily for those who aren't so into wrapping presents, there are talented folks to pick up the slack and we'll have them with us again!  Halfway Home Greyhound Adoption will be wrapping presents for donations for their cause at our 2012 show and we couldn't be more greytful for them!

Halfway Home Greyhound Adoption is a unique adoption team formed in the spring of 2002 to help dogs that do not have access to greyhound track adoption programs in finding their adoptive homes. We are a small group of dedicated volunteers motivated by our love of the breed and respect for the farms' commitment to the dogs. Oklahoma is one of the top three breeders of greyhounds and so we have an abundant supply of dogs. Our group is unique in that although we do some local adoptions, are main priority is to put together hauls of greys from Oklahoma to other greyhound adoption groups across the country and to Canada and Alaska. All of our financial support comes from private donations.

The Salvation Army Needs You!

We're elated to be partnering with The Salvation Army for this year's Alliday Show and we're hoping you'll partner with us as well to help out SO many deserving children in the Tulsa area!

Their Angel Tree program is over but 100 angels were left waiting in addition to 'Forgotten Angels' whose tags never came back!  There are also several Angels that only have one or two items so we need help rounding out their gift bags!  There is a big need for clothes, coats, older toys (pre-teens), etc.  No gift cards or candy, please.


By bringing an item to donate to our Saturday show, you'll be entered into a drawing to win a prize of amazing donations from our talented artists!  The prize package is something to be desired!

If you're not able to make the show and want to contribute, you can donate directly by texting "Joy" to 85944 to make a one time $10 donation or you can donate online at www.salarmytulsa.org.

Alliday Allstar: Unanimous Craft

Organizing the crafting community.  Could anything sound more daunting and intimidating?!  That's what Unanimous Craft is all about and she's doing it.  Well. 

Who are you?
I’m Rosalie Gale, creator of Unanimous Craft (http://www.unanimouscraft.com), EtsySaver (http://www.etsysaver.com), bARTer Sauce (http://www.bartersauce.com) and Shower Art (http://www.showerart.net). I am currently obsessed with German Board games, Bikram yoga and embroidery.

Tell us a little about your business/service.
Unanimous Craft is a directory of resources for folks running indie businesses. You can create a listing for your own business, look up information on marketing or SEO. When you find something really useful (or something you hate) you can review it and rate it. This year we launched a national craft show calendar and are currently working on state by state forums so you can interact with people in your area.

Where are you located?
I’m in Seattle, WA right now. On the corner of 3rd and Lenora. Right across the street from Cinerama. They have chocolate popcorn there. It tastes like warm Cocoa Puffs.

What are your favorite handmade items to shop for?
Everything. Whenever I replace something in my home, I try to find a handmade alternative.

What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Me, my husband Doug and our friend Laura have created Nestmas. Pajamas are mandatory and we all spend the day curled up on couches with big comforters, watching movies.

What holiday do you wish was everyday and why?
NESTMAS!

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Alliday Allstar: StreetCats!

Nothing is more comforting than having a warm animal to snuggle up with during the cold days of winter (and fall!) which is why we're grateful for organizations that help the animals that warm our souls.  At this year's Alliday, we're welcoming the wonderful StreetCats to join us.  They've been saving cats in Tulsa for over ten years now with no end in sight.  They're a blessing to our city but more so, they're a blessing to cats.

Tell us a little about StreetCats, Inc.
We are an all volunteer non profit cat adoption center and gift boutique. We take in homeless cats and care for them until a home can be found. We work with vets in the Tulsa area and people who want to help homeless cats on the streets to get sterilized and vaccinated. We exist on donations only. Some of the money from donations is used to purchase items at wholesale which we in turn sell at a fair price to help with expenses.

Where are you located?
60th & S. Sheridan on the east side of the street behind Charlie’s Chicken

How does being involved in the creative handmade community affect you?
We have volunteers who have creative abilities who make items that they donate to us to sell which helps us with expenses.

What are your favorite handmade items to shop for?
At StreetCats we have Catnip Pillows made with organic catnip that many cats love. We also have totes that crafters, sewers, scrapbookers, etc. love to use and they also good for remote controls. Additionally we have handknitted dish cloths that are very popular.

What are you most looking forward to at Alliday?
Meeting new people and letting them know about StreetCats

What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Spending time with people you don’t see as often as you would like.

What holiday do you wish was everyday and why? 
Adopt A Cat Day so that all the homeless cats in Tulsa would have a warm loving home with people whom love them.

If you could create a new holiday, what would it be and why?
Love a Cat Day – because all cats need to know someone loves them

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Alliday ALLSTAR: Rainbow Swirlz

There's a pretty good chance that you have some of Rainbow Swirlz work already.  You may wear it or you may carry it and if you were involved in our December 2011 show, you most certainly have one of their sturdy totes!  For our past show, we decided to offer free swag bags filled with goodies from our talented artists to the earliest of attendees to the show and also gifted specialized bags to our Allstars and Artists just for being awesome!  These bags (with graphic by Pop Prints) wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of Rainbow Swirlz, a screen printing company nestled right down the Turnpike in Stroud!

I personally fell in love with Rainbow Swirlz almost four years ago at Indie Emporium where I snagged my first of many designs of theirs.  It was about a year later that I met Mendy, the brains (and brawn!) of the company, and quickly fell in love with her strong work ethic, true blue honesty and sense of humor that never fails to make me laugh.  Their designs are endless as are their nonstop Facebook specials!  So if you're needing custom screen printing done, are looking for something new and comfortable to wear or are just wanting to support a worthy local business, check them out and become addicted like I did!

-Briana

Alliday ALLSTAR: Lot 6

Did you know there are perpetually changing local art shows in the heart of Tulsa?  If you're over 21 and want to support a deserving local business, scoot yourself over to The Pearl District and check out the glorious Lot 6!  Owner and Entrepreneur Vanessa Somerville (recently included in UTW's Hot 100!)  has created an environment perfect for artists and art appreciators alike.  Open from 2-2 with daily specials, Lot 6 is more than just a bar, it's an Art Bar with a different artist each month displaying their works.  

 Typically, Gallery Openings are held on the first Friday of every month and are a guaranteed good time.  Other specials are: 

Monday - Service Industry Night,

Tuesday - Ladies' Night, 

Thursday - Guys' Night, 

2nd Saturday of the Month - Steve Cluck 80's & 90's Dance Party

Sunday - Happy Hour All Day

Everyday - Free WiFi, Happy Hour from 2-7 and Outlets Aplenty!

Lot 6 was kind enough to let Alliday take over the bar for our Artist Meet & Greet before our 2011 show!  It only made sense to have an event for artists at an Art Bar!  We had a great time and thank them for being so accommodating and fun!  

The staff is great, the drinks are cold and the art is totally worth the trip.  Perhaps we'll see you at the next opening!

-Briana

Alliday ALLSTAR: Pop Prints

Before, during and after our 2011 show, one of the most common questions I encountered was "Who did your graphics?"  That would be Pop Prints, run by the very talented Ross Maute in Stillwater, OK.  Ross was SUCH a joy to work with and if you're in the market for a quality graphic designer who doubles as an awesome guy, he's your man.  No doubt.  Having never worked with a graphic designer before on a project, I had no idea how the process would work, especially with us being in different cities but it worked beautifully.  He was efficient, accommodating and obviously has got mad skills.  Take a moment to check out just a few of my favorites of his below and check out more for yourself.  You'll be sold, just like I was.  

-Briana

And, of course, my favorite.

Alliday ALLSTAR: Bluebird Lane

How many of you out there have dreamt of running away for the weekend, wished you had time to complete your stack of unfinished projects or pined for a few days away with your friends?  I think it's safe to say, we all have.  Luckily for us, Bluebird Lane has made those dreams much easier to achieve with their beautiful, functional and modern craft retreat just outside of Tulsa!  Set on five acres of land, the 3,000 sq ft retreat sleeps 15, hosts all modern conveniences and, of course, boasts some very desirable and personal crafting spaces!  You better believe I'll be there and in fact, I'm already examining my calendar to see when I can book my weekend!  Want to know more?  Bluebird Lane will be spending the day with us THIS SATURDAY and is ready to help your crafting weekend dreams come true!

-Briana

Who are you? 

Jen Junkermeier and Megan Neal, Lifelong sisters and recent business partners! We are the dreamers and creators of Bluebird Lane, Scrapbooking and Craft retreat.

Megan Neal (the little sister) is the creative energy and vision behind Bluebird Lane. She is an Oklahoma Certified Florist and works full time as a floral designer at a local Tulsa flower shop. She enjoys spending time with her handy husband Edward and yorkie Mabel. A cute pair of shoes, a blooming garden, and a bargain shopping trip keeps this girl going. She has been scrapping since college and loves to find inspiration through other crafters projects. 

Jen Junkermeier (the big sister) is the centering force of Bluebird Lane. She is happily married to husband John and a proud mommy to son Jack. While working full time she is a family focused woman who knows how to get things done. She thrives on laughter, good music, and chocolate. Although new to scrapping, she has developed a great passion for perfecting the craft. 

Tell us a little about your business/service. 
Bluebird Lane is a Labor of Love created my sister’s Megan Neal and Jen Junkermeier. Our primary goal is to spread a passion for creative crafting. We offer a comfy, cozy weekend retreat experience for people looking to escape and create. We strive to give you a laid-back atmosphere in a beautiful country setting. We have sleeping and work-table accommodations for up to fifteen guests and you can book as a single reservation or a group. 

Where are you located?
Our facility is a 3,000 square foot hideaway located just south of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

We Love to give tours at: 

Bluebird Lane
20539 S Yale Ave.
Mounds, OK 74047
(918)633-6628  

How does being involved in the creative handmade community affect you?
Creators and scrappers at heart, we are constantly amazed at all the innovative and fresh ideas that flow from friends who have a crafting passion. There is always something new to learn! Being surrounded by creative people creates inspiration in our own lives and for us that is what living is all about! 

What are your favorite handmade items to shop for? 
You cannot beat a great pair of Handmade Earrings that you know no one else has a replica of! It’s the interesting and one of a kind piece that normally catches our eye. Although, handmade soap, scarves knitted by friends, and personal artwork adorn both of our homes! 

What are you most looking forward to at Alliday? 
We are so excited to meet all the wonderful and talented Vendors that will be a part of Alliday. Having sold handmade goods in the past, we have a true understanding of the love and dedication that goes into running a business of handmade good.  

What is your favorite holiday tradition? 
Every year we (the sisters) along with our parents and spouses gather on a Sunday morning in the beginning of December, eat a hearty brunch, and travel to a local tree farm to cut down the perfect fresh Christmas trees. Bundling up in our winter best, snapping a few pictures to place in our scrapbooks, and spending the evening adorning our tree has become our favorite family time of the season! 

What holiday do you wish was everyday and why? 
This year for Thanksgiving our family all gathered at Bluebird Lane for an old fashion sleepover! What a blast! The joy of Thanksgiving is in family, food, and fun. It must be our favorite! There is no pressure to chose the perfect gift, or have the prefect table setting. As long as there is Turkey, Mashed Potato’s, and family it’s perfect. 

If you could create a new holiday, what would it be and why? 
We think a simple Family day is in order. This would not be like Valentines when one looks for NEW Love, or any government holiday where one celebrates a long lost memory of a person. This would be a day to simply celebrate the family we have, cherish the time we all get to spend together and focus on what is important. 

(And then the next day we would all go back to work! ; ) 
All the important stuff is at : www.bluebirdretreat.com
And the fun “get to know us stuff” happens here: https://www.facebook.com/BluebirdLane 

Alliday ALLSTAR: This Land Press

In case you weren't aware, Oklahoma is unbelievably amazing.  Our history, our people, our land, our culture, our EVERYTHING constantly amazes.  Every day I fall deeper in love with this great state and the people that share it with me.  

This Land Press loves Oklahoma too.  It's more than puppy love, it's more than a fleeting crush, it's L.O.V.E.  And they're not shy about it.  Their publication encompasses the history of the state, what to do locally, the magic of our small towns, controversies, hidden treasures and so much more; it's a list that could go on for days.  When I read one of their issues I feel more Oklahoman which I didn't think was possible.  And it's a proud, powerful feeling that only they can create.  With some of the best writers in the state under one (cute) roof, it's no surprise that This Land churns out some killer work.  Find an issue THIS SATURDAY at Alliday and witness the love affair between our land and This Land.  

Oklahoma+This Land 4EVER

-Briana

Who are you? 
This Land Press - Oklahoma's First New Media Company. Our mission is to chronicle life in Oklahoma through courageous, compelling stories- and to tell those stories in the most suitable medium: print, video and audio.

Tell us a little about your business.

We are mainly a subscription based paper, but also distribute at 40+ local businesses around Tulsa- http://thislandpress.com/find/

Where are you located?
12th and Peoria in Tulsa, OK

How does being involved in the creative handmade community affect you? 

We are proud supporters of local art. We understand the importance of fostering new talent and bringing original work to Oklahoma.

Where can we find you? 
Facebook
Website

Alliday ALLSTAR: Prairie Hive!

An Alliday Allstar is an organization or business that has gone above and beyond to aid in making our event a success!  Without them, we would not be able to do what we do!  In addition to artist spotlights, we've been showcasing our wonderful Allstars which you can catch up on here!

There are a million reasons why I love Prairie Hive.  I could tell you all about their daily blog filled with recipes, DIYs, local happenings, giveaways and more.  Or I could tell you all about how they are showing the world that Oklahoma really is hip, progressive and awe-inspiring.  Or that they support local artists and will be joining us at Alliday.  Or I could tell you how each and every one of them is a talented, humble, unbelievably amazing woman that I am honored to know.  But I won't.  Today I will tell you about their online magazine which has their fans counting down the days for.  I truly love soaking up every photo, every word and every page because these ladies know how to create a periodical to be admired and loved.  And lucky for all of us, their most recent issue launched TODAY!  Enjoy the read and enjoy the girls that make up the best hive in town.

-Briana

Tell us a little about yourselves.

Prairie Hive is a collaboration of designers, photographers, writers, and crafty creative types based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We want to share with you interesting people, places and things in our part of the world – and hope you find some inspiration along the way! Each of us has a unique perspective on design, lifestyle, travel and entertaining and we want to collectively give you something to buzz about!

Our bimonthly online publication gives you a peek into the homes and lifestyles of some of our favorite people and how they live, work and play – then takes inspiration from what we see there to show you how to incorporate a bit of their style into your own home, entertaining endeavors or elsewhere.

We also hope you will visit our blog, a great place to find extended coverage of our magazine content, our “of the moment” inspirations, additional DIY projects, field trips to local places and events and a spotlight on great things we find around our little part of the prairie.


How does being involved in the creative handmade community affect you?
One of our goals is to feature local and/or small businesses as much as possible. We love meeting others in the creative community, both online and at shows like Alliday, where we have the opportunity to see their work in person and get new ideas for blogs, spot trends, or find products to showcase in our photo shoots!

What are your favorite handmade items to shop for?
Since there are 6 of us, you would probably get 6 different answers to this question. But as a general rule, I think all of us love unique items for the home and/or garden and fun fashion finds! 

 

What are you most looking forward to at Alliday?
Meeting all new vendors and seeing old friends! 

What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Again, probably 6 different answers, but considering we all work in design - decorating the tree and the home is a big part of the holidays for all of us. Personally, decorating the Christmas tree is a really important ritual to me. All our ornaments have sentimental meaning and we relive the memories behind them as we hang them. 

What holiday do you wish was everyday and why?
I'm glad there are lots...I always get tired of them by the time they are over! Changing decor, theme, traditions every month or so is part of what keeps holidays fun! 

If you could create a new holiday, what would it be and why?
I think we have plenty. :)

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Twitter:  @PrairieHive

Alliday ALLSTAR: Funky Finds!

An Alliday Allstar is an organization or business that has gone above and beyond to aid in making our event a success!  Without them, we would not be able to do what we do!  In addition to artist spotlights, we also showcase our amazing Allstars here!  Read our first spotlight with Unanimous Craft here!

Funky Finds has made easy one of the most difficult tasks for artists and crafters - finding the right shows to apply to.  With their incredibly thorough WORLDWIDE calendar of awesome shows, consider every one of your weekends to now be filled.  Funkily filled, that is.  Not only does Funky Finds produce their own kickin' shows, but they also help promote other shows, provide a virtual marketplace for artists, and SO much more!  Funky Finds gives artists, crafters and shoppers endless possibilities to fulfill their incessant handmade needs.

-Briana

Who are you? 
Funky Finds (http://funkyfinds.com/) has remained dedicated to promoting independent artists, crafters and designers worldwide since 2006.

Tell us a little about Funky Finds.
Funky Finds offers a variety of services (http://funkyfinds.com/services.html) aimed at helping small business owners promote their work on little to no marketing / advertising budget. The Shops @ Funky Finds (http://funkyfinds.com/theshops) is an online marketplace that is easy to use & affordable. We offer four Shop levels starting at just $1.99 per month. All Shops receive a free web ad, as well.

Where are you located? 
Funky Finds is based out of Jefferson, Texas; however, the majority of our services (aside from Texas-based events) are online and worldwide!

How does being involved in the creative handmade community affect you?

We are extremely passionate about helping independent artisans make a living doing what they are most passionate about. Being a part of the handmade community is a dream come true!

What are your favorite handmade items to shop for? 

We love unique artwork, jewelry, and accessories. It's also great to purchase hand-crafted pet goods, as well as bath and body products.

What are you most looking forward to at Alliday? 

Sadly, Funky Finds will not be in attendance at this awesome event. But we know it will be amazing and we will be there in spirit!


What is your favorite holiday tradition? 

Decorating the tree is a favorite tradition because we get to see all our handmade ornaments that have been collected and created over the years.


What holiday do you wish was everyday and why? 

Christmas would be a great one to have every day, because generally people are so happy and filled with true holiday spirit.

If you could create a new holiday, what would it be and why?

Funky Finds day, of course! Then nobody would be funky lost…everyone would be funky found!!!

Stay funky!

Jessica Dougherty

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Alliday ALLSTAR: Unanimous Craft

An Alliday Allstar is an organization or business that has gone above and beyond to aid in making our event a success!  Without them, we would not be able to do what we do!  In addition to artist spotlights, we'll also be showcasing our amazing Allstars here!

Unanimous Craft is our first of this series and could possibly have taken on the most daunting task any crafter could think of - organizing the crafting community!  I can't even imagine taking on a job like that but am thankful that someone else has!  And has done so in an effective manner!  Their comprehensive website can delightfully suck you in for hours with an endless supply of resources, craftologists, and more.  So go, play around for a bit, list your own resources and discover the wonder that is Unanimous Craft.  You can thank me later - Briana

Who are you?

Rosalie Gale (and sometimes a Hedgehog dressed in an Artichoke Costume)

Tell us a little about your business.

I run a website called Unanimous Craft. It's kind of like Yelp for crafters. You can add helpful resources to the site and then you and other crafters can vote on how useful they are. You can also create listings for your own shops and ask customers to review you. The more good reviews you get - the higher you rank in our popularity contest: http://www.unanimouscraft.com/popularity-contest/top-rated. 

People can also compile lists of resources (http://www.unanimouscraft.com/lists) that can be shared with friends. It's a good way to share info like, "The 50 best ways to market your Etsy shop for free" or "Annual craft shows in our city." 

Unanimous Craft also has an event calendar (http://www.unanimouscraft.com/events/calendar) that just launched recently. If you run a show - add your event to the calendar for additional free publicity. 

Premium Memberships (http://www.unanimouscraft.com/products) are also available on Unanimous Craft. For $60/year you get a robust profile on the site that links to all your shops and social networks. Your profile is randomly shown on the home page each time it is refreshed. You get discounts on additional advertising on the site and are entered to win a monthly contest for a free ad.

Where are you located? 

Seattle, WA

I also sell Shower Art - Waterproof art you can hang in your shower with a suction cup. Or anywhere else. We're no dictators. 

You can see examples of them in my Etsy shop: Uglybaby. 

How does being involved in the creative handmade community affect you?

I have really become inspired by makers and creative entrepreneurs of all kinds. I love going to shows and seeing all the wonderful and crazy things that people think up. I love seeing the huge crowds at shows buying up all those wonderful and crazy things. It makes me feel better about humanity.

What are your favorite handmade items to shop for?

My latest phase: great headbands. 

What is your favorite holiday tradition?

My husband and I are normally so wiped out by the holiday craft show circuit that we don't plan anything. Ahhhhhh... Last year we started a new tradition called Nestmas. We had a friend come over and we all wore pajamas. Each of us got a pillow and a comforter and we snuggled on the couch while watching a bunch of movies. Nice! I'm looking forward to doing that again this year. 

What holiday do you wish was everyday and why?

I never wish holidays were everyday. Never. Can you imagine going through all the expense and setup Every Day? Noooooooooooo!

If you could create a new holiday, what would it be and why?

Well. I think we've got a really good start on Nestmas. I'm going with that. 

Where can we find you? 

Unanimous Craft

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