Local Love Fair Celebrates Community Artisans
On February 22, the Davis Food Co-op held the Local Love Fair, a lively event highlighting local artisans, food makers, and small businesses. This gathering was a fantastic way for community members to meet creators and try out their products.
The fair featured many local vendors, like Schiller Crafts, Pixley Ceramics, and Estella Moon. Attendees could sample tasty products from local favorites like Masala Blend, Mia Bea Wines, and Island of the Moon Honey. Co-op members also got a special treat: four times the rewards points on local items purchased during the fair week.
Pinar Brummer, the creator behind Pixley Ceramics, expressed her excitement about the event. She makes functional pottery like bowls and teacups. Brummer shared that her ceramic studio started as a way to channel her creativity after the pandemic.
“I’ve always been a creative person,” she said. “My studio is my outlet for dreams I’ve held since I was young.” She appreciates how the Local Love Fair builds connections between artisans and the community. Brummer loves meeting the people who use her dishes, saying, “It’s the best feeling.” Her story as an immigrant and small business owner showcases the inclusiveness of events like this.
Mamta Gupta, founder of Masala Blend, also discussed her experience with the co-op. “They were our first buyers in 2020,” she explained. This support has helped her business grow. Gupta transitioned from a special education teacher to a full-time spice blend creator in 2023, inspired by her mother’s recipes. She aims to help families create nutritious meals together.
Gupta shared, “We make our blends by hand in small batches, using only ingredients we can pronounce.” Commitment to quality is important to her, with no chemicals or preservatives added. “Transparency is key,” she added. “We want people to know what they’re eating.”
Flora Guilbaut from Estella Moon also showcased her eco-friendly fashion line. After years in the industry, she struggled to find stylish clothing for postpartum mothers. Her designs focus on comfort and sustainability, using small-batch production methods.
Guilbaut believes events like the Local Love Fair are vital for raising awareness of local talent. “It’s important to support small businesses,” she said. “These markets shine a light on our creativity.” She enjoys spending time with family during these events, making it more than just a business opportunity.
“My family came to visit, which made it even more special,” she said, reflecting on the lovely atmosphere. Connecting with customers and friends adds a personal touch to her work.
The Local Love Fair is a shining example of how the Davis Food Co-op supports local artisans and cultivates community spirit. It provides a platform for showcasing unique products while also fostering relationships among residents. The co-op has several other exciting events coming up in March, including more opportunities for local rewards and sample tastings. Keep an eye on their
for updates!
Check out this related article: Double Your Impact: Anonymous Donors Match Spring Donations for Rhinelander Area Food Pantry!
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