Updated North East Business Showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in the North East? Then this feature is for you. It includes businesses from Our Local Crafts Facebook shout out earlier this week and businesses from previous shout outs to give you a wide range of shops and services in your area.


ANTHONY CONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY 
Based in Darlington you will find professional photography services for your event, wedding or just for fun. Pop over to their page for more information and for a look at their work.
http://www.facebook.com/AnthonyConnellPhotography


Zebra Print & Design - Darlington 
Based in Darlington you will find fantastic graphic design and printing services for both business and personal. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's they do.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Zebra-Print-Design-Darlington/160973167256165


Tammy's Cakes 
Based in Middlesbrough you will find a beautiful selection of handmade cakes for any occasion. These cakes are beautifully decorated and will make a fantastic centre piece for your occasion. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tammys-Cakes/123198021070735


Lily Mai's Children's Boutique 
Based in Darlington you will find a wonderful collection of children's clothing, perfect for your little prince or princess. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/LilyMaisChildrenBoutique


* Smellies by Heidi * 
Based in Hartlepool you will find an amazing range of handmade bath bombs and creams. Available in a wide range of shapes, sizes and scents you will be spoilt for choice. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Jaynie's Cupcakery 
Based in Stockton On Tees you will find stunningly made cupcakes for all occasions. These gorgeous creations look extremely tempting so pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/JayniesCupcakery


Thirtle Designs 
Based in Gateshead you will find beautiful handmade bags, with so many gorgeous designs available you'll find it hard to choose. Pop over to their page and have a look for yourselves.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Thirtle-Designs/187245617976335


Roo Bear Craft Creations 
Based in Darlington, you will find beautiful handmade wooden items for decorating your home. They have some great looking items, you are sure to find something you like. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Roo-Bear-Craft-Creations/178899252161098


Touchwood Film Productions 
Based in the North East they are a professional video production company offering packages to cover any special occasion or commercial production within East Durham and the North East of England. Pop over to their page for more information.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Touchwood-Film-Productions/167732589937568http://www.touchwoodfilmproductions.co.uk/


Elderberry Arts 
Based in Lincolnshire in the North East they sell gorgeous hand crafted and often one of pieces of jewellery, well worth a visit if you love interesting and well made jewellery, they also make beautiful gay and bisexual jewellery. 
http://www.facebook.com/Elderberryarts
http://www.elderberryarts.co.uk/


Supacraftilicious
Based in the North East near Newcastle they sell gorgeous hand crafted cards and gifts. Their items are cute, original and will make perfect gifts! Go visit their page and see their items for yourselves.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Supacraftilicious/135979096457553


Hair Clips and Head Bands 
Based in Skegness in the North East they make very sweet hair clips and head bands at very reasonable prices. Well worth a visit if you would something a little different and adorable for you or your childs hair!! Pop by and say hello and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hair-Clips-and-Head-Bands/151721061559455


Andreas gems 
Based in Scunthorpe in the North East they make wonderful hand made gem stone and crystal jewellery as well as custom made orders. These pieces would make wonderful gifts for others and even yourselves. Pop on over and take a look at their current pieces.
http://www.facebook.com/andrea.lane11


Ruby Tuesday Cards 
From Stockton-on-Tees in the North East. They sell gorgeous handmade cards and have a beautiful selection for both male and female. Take a look at their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ruby-Tuesday-Cards/135498919855072

MoreTvicar 
From County Durham in the North East where you can find a wonderful variety of handmade cards, vintage tea sets, beautiful jewellery, all things a girl could want and much much more. Pop over to their page to see what goodies you can find.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MoreTvicar/202122019807126

Kez Designs 
From Gateshead, North East, they have a wonderful range of beautiful hand made jewellery. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what great bracelets they have. 
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kez-Designs/139633392761497

Beautiful Paper Crafts 
From the North East, they sell beautiful crafting materials from buttons to stamps and all things in between. Definitely worth a visit if you make your own cards, scrapbooks and other fantastic items. Please pass the details of this business on to people who are or would like to make their own crafts!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Beautiful-Paper-Crafts/162312947145087
http://www.beautifulpapercrafts.co.uk/

North Coast Candles
From Northumberland in the North East they sell gorgeous looking handmade candles and melts made from soy wax. Beautifully decorated these candles would make wonderful gifts. Pop over and take a look for yourselves.
http://www.facebook.com/northcoastcandles
http://www.northcoastcandles.co.uk/

I hope you enjoyed looking through the wonderful businesses based in the North East. If you are from another part of the country and would like to see businesses in your area take a look at our other blogs or pop over to our facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Special Shopping Feature

Hello and welcome to this weeks special shopping feature!
Our facebook page is filled with over 400 wonderful businesses and so to celebrate and advertise more fairly each week a new special feature will be ran, filled to the brim with wonderful items to buy. There is so much choice out there hopefully being in one place will help us decide what to buy!


Hopefully this will be run alongside our Review specials in which you can buy items from businesses we've reviewed.


So grab your brew, get comfy and get ready to see what's on offer this week.


Sutton Soap Handmade Natural and Organic Soap
Makers of beautiful handmade soap, your are sure to find a scent or shape that suits you. Currently they are offering soap from £1.50 including postage. Visit their website or facebook page and see what they have.
http://www.suttonsoap.co.uk/index.php
http://www.facebook.com/SuttonSoaps

Kirsty's Kross Stitch

Used with permission from Kirsty's Kross Stitch

Fantastic cross stitch cards including personalised charts. Has a wonderful new range of history and fantasy charts available prices from £3.50. Visit their website or facebook page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.kirstyskrossstitch.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kirstys-Kross-Stitch/166228760099092


Ivybet Gems

Used with permission from Ivybet Gems

Beautiful handmade jewellery for all ages. If you are looking for something for yourself, your child or as a gift for others then you won't be disappointed. Prices from £4.00. Visit their facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ivybet-Gems/113910341986680


Pearlies 4 Girlies
Wonderful pearl jewellery for children and adults, all brightly coloured and beautifully made. If you are looking for a great gift then visit their facebook or etsy page for a look at what they are offering.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/pearlies4girlies
http://www.facebook.com/pearlies4girlies


Roo Bear Craft Creations
Beautiful handmade wooden keepsakes and home decor. With a wide variety of items you are sure to find something you were looking for. Items are custom made and prices vary. Right now they have some wonderful gifts for Fathers Day. For more information visit their facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Roo-Bear-Craft-Creations/178899252161098

Hand made with love - Especially for you
Have a wonderful range of handmade home decor, headbands, tutu's and personalised items. They have such a wide choice of great items you won't be disappointed with the choices available. Visit their website or facebook page for more information.
http://www.hmwithlove-especially4u.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hand-made-with-love-Especially-for-you/151486338243365


Totally Trinketz

Used with permission from Totally Trinketz

If you are looking for wonderful handmade trinkets or children's room decor then you'll find a great collection here. From personalised name coat hangers to wall plaques and cards. Prices vary. Visit their facebook page for more information.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Totally-Trinketz/137413196312663


Seedlingz Online Boutique
A gorgeous collection of baby and children clothing. Made from organic and baby soft materials. They have a beautiful collection. Make sure to visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of their items.
http://www.facebook.com/Seedlingz


Nichola Foster Designs
Beautiful one of a kind handmade jewellery. With a selection like this you're sure to find something you love. Stunning rings, bracelets, necklaces and more all made using fantastic materials. Make sure to visit their facebook page and see for yourselves what's on offer!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nichola-Foster-Designs/190615480975141


FunkyClipz/Auctions and Selling page
If you are looking for personalised dummy clips, keyrings and gorgeous wine charms then take a look at these. With a variety of items available in gorgeous bright colours you'll find something you like. Prices from £1.50 Visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/FunkyClipz


Flossi's Gems
Gorgeous handmade jewellery available for all occasions, if you are looking for something special for yourselves or as a gift then take a look at what's on offer. Visit their facebook page for more information and a full gallery of items for sale.
http://www.facebook.com/FlossisGems


Gillyflower Designs
A wonderful collection of handmade jewellery and gifts. If you are looking for something to buy as a gift then take a look at what's on offer. Brightly coloured and fun these items will brighten up your day. Visit their facebook page for to see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/GillyflowerDesigns


Bows By Bryan-Handmade baby & toddler hairclips
Has a wonderful collection of handmade bows and clips for children. Made from bright colours and great fabrics you are sure to find something you like. Visit their website or facebook page to see what they have to offer today!
http://www.bowsbybryan.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bows-By-Bryan-Handmade-baby-toddler-hairclips/190191511021879


Smellies by Heidi 

Used with permission for Smellies by Heidi

If you are looking for great pampering items then take a look at these. With beautiful bath bombs and creams you are sure to find something you like the look of. Available in a wide range of colours, shapes and scents. Visit their website and facebook page for more information.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Small and Gifted
If you are looking for handmade personalised wooden products aimed at children and adults then have a look at these. With a wonderful collection of beautifully decorated and brightly coloured wooden items you will be spoilt for choice. Visit their website or facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://www.smallandgifted.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Small-and-Gifted/136809849721759


There you have it, a great collection of local UK businesses. I hoped you enjoyed looking through their shops but if you want more please visit our website and facebook page for more great businesses.
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

So You've Found A Craft Fair...

So you've found your first craft fair... congratulations but what do you do now?


It isn't easy to know what to expect on your first ever craft fair or market so with help from a few wonderful people over on our facebook page I have compiled a list of hints and tips to help you through get through it without cracking up! 

• Make sure you plan ahead what you will be taking to the fair, taking into account what you may sell before hand, don't leave it to the last minute to decide.
• Is there a table provided? If there is make sure to take a very nice cover or sheet to put over it, you never know what condition it will be in.
• Setting up your own table can be a nightmare in and of itself, make sure you know how to put it up, don't spend all morning faffing around with it!
• Dress for the occasion, don't forget its not just your items that are on sale, you are selling yourself as the face of the business... also dress for the weather, take a coat, there is nothing worse than a frozen stall holder.
• Dress your table. Add covered tiered boxes for height and depth to your products, give your customers chance to see your items in all their glory and not just thrown on the table before them.
• Take change. Lots of change. Customers will most likely pay with notes. If possible take at least £20's worth of change in £1 coins, 50p, 20p, 10p and 1s and 2s.
• Take food and drink. You will get hungry and you will end up sending someone to grab you an expensive sandwich or worse. 
• Take hand wipes, food can be sticky and no one wants sugared coins as change.
• Business cards are a must! People may have come only to look but if you give them a card they will remember you when they have some money to spend.
• Chat to the other stall holders, they are a very valuable source of information and will also make great friends when trade slacks a bit. Plus they will mind your stall when you need to go for that all important toilet trip.
• Know where the toilets are, no good spending all day wandering around lost, not at your stall because you have no idea how to a) get to the toilets or b) get back!
• Smile!
• Don't be too put off if you don't make a lot of money, especially if the market is regular and you are new, people take a bit of getting used to the new stall and it may also be that people don't have the money to spend that week/month. (Now is the time to hand the card over!)
• Chat to the customers, making sure that you take notice of other customers around your stall who are looking to buy something there and then rather than chat.
• Do you customise your items? Tell the customer!
• Have a good time, it isn't all about the selling, you have to get something out of it too!

There you have it, some helpful and handy hints and tips for your first craft fair. Don't forget these aren't rules just helpful tips... take a deep breath and breathe, you'll be fine!

A big thank you to; Jeeberella's Craft Castle for helping with the hints and tips.

http://www.facebook.com/Jeeberella

Visit our facebook page for more information on what we do!

http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Shopping for Baby and Children Items Special Feature

Do you have a child or a baby on the way? 
If you've ever been shopping whether for yourselves or with friends it is obvious that clothing and items aimed at babies and young children are big business but if you are looking for something unique or made with love and care then it can be difficult to find what you are looking for.


But not everything has to be commercialised, you can find high quality items that will last and are unique and made to what you want with prices to match.


Today's special feature showcases some fantastic small businesses in the UK providing beautiful handmade baby and child items, ranging all the way from baby shower gifts to accessories for children 10 and over.
All these items are made with care and have had a lot of thought and love put into making them. So put the kettle on, grab a biscuit and settle down for some fantastic shopping.


Gifts 4 The Family

Used with permission from Gifts 4 The Family

If you are looking for a special gift to give to someone at a baby shower or just as something practical but special and well presented for both mother and child then look no further. With a large choice of nappy cakes and hampers available you won't have to look far for what you want. A great place to find handmade cards too. Visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of products available.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gifts-4-The-Family/182143941823822


Sock monkey mischief

Used with permission from Sock Monkey Mischief

Are you looking for something handmade, unique and cuddly? Here you can find a wonderful collection of sock animals all waiting to be loved. You can also find other wonderful soft toys all handmade and using wonderful materials and colours. Available for both boys and girls. If your little one is in need of a new soft friend then visit their facebook page for a full gallery of work available.
http://www.facebook.com/Sockmonkeymischief


Lightbox

Used with permission from Lightbox

If you are looking for wonderful, handmade items for your child's room or beautiful blankets  and pillows then take a look at these. Using stunning fabrics and colours you are sure to spot something you like in the decor and colours you are after. Items available for both boys and girls. Visit their facebook page for more information and a full gallery of their works.
http://www.facebook.com/LightboxCrafts


Totally Trinketz

Used with permission from Totally Trinketz

If you are looking for personalised wooden keepsakes for both boys and girls then take a look at these. Handmade and personalised to your specifications you are sure to spot something you and your child will love. Items available include new baby plaques and egg cups to children's room decor. Visit their facebook page for a full gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Totally-Trinketz/137413196312663


Ivybet Gems

Used with permission from Ivybet Gems

Are you looking for something bright and fun in jewellery for your child? Then take a look at what's on offer here. Handmade jewellery for all ages (including adults!) can be found here using fantastic colours and shapes I'm sure you can find something both you and your child will love. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.ivybetgems.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ivybet-Gems/113910341986680

Scratchy cat crafts

Used with permission from Scratchy Cat Crafts

If you are looking for something pretty, handmade, unique and personal you can find it here. They have a wonderful range of decor and goodies for you child, items are available for both boys and girls and products range from just born keepsakes to teenage years and beyond. From wall plaques to notebooks you will find high quality and beautiful products for all ages. For more information and a full gallery of work visit their website and facebook page.
http://www.scratchycatshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/Scratchycatcrafts


Funky Freaktures

Used with permission from Funky Freaktures.

Wonderful soft and funky creatures, handmade using great fabrics, designs and colours. If you are looking for something a little different for your child then look no further. With design available for both girls and boys you are sure to find something you and your child will both love. Visit their facebook page for more information and a gallery of their work.
http://www.facebook.com/FunkyFreakturesPage


Belladumpling

Used with Permission from Belladumpling

If you are looking for wonderful handmade wooden children's decor and keepsakes then look no further. Personalised to what you are looking for, they have a large range of beautiful items that will make any parent and child's day. Available for both boys and girls you will be sure to find something you was looking for. Visit their website and facebook page for further information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.belladumpling.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Belladumpling/122514194493006


Cat's Crafty Crafting

Used with permission from Cat's Crafty Crafting

If you are looking for something personalised, handmade and practical then look no further. Amongst other fantastically made wooden items you will find Alphabet building blocks, these can be personalised for your needs and will make wonderful gifts and keepsakes.
Visit their facebook page for further information and a gallery of their work.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cats-Crafty-Crafting/134022233313797

Sweet Bottoms

Used with permission from Sweet Bottoms

If you are looking for great baby shower gifts or sweet hampers for a birthday/occasion then look no further. You will find a wide range of wonderfully made and presented nappy cakes as well as towel cakes and sweet cones and gifts all in one place. Available for both boys and girls. Visit their facebook page for further information and a full gallery of their work.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Bottoms/184913861538948


Artinkulate Keepsakes

Used with permission from Artinkulate Keepsakes

If you are looking for something beautiful your child can keep when they are older then look no further. Handmade and hand painted fantastic keepsakes and name plaques. Available in a wide variety of designs, shapes and sizes you will find something you love. These wonderful keepsakes make great gifts that will be treasured for life. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and a full gallery of work.
http://www.artinkulate.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/inkyart


There you have it, some wonderful businesses with fantastic handmade gifts for both babies and children of all ages.
For more businesses like this feel free to visit our website and facebook page and if you know someone who would be interested in our blog please feel free to pass it along!
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Updated North West Business Showcase

Yesterday we showcased some great businesses in the North West. Here they are as well as the other businesses that have been showcased in that area before.


Loulabee 
Based in the North West you will find a beautiful range of handmade bags, accessories and homewares. Pop over to their page and make sure to check out their wonderful cushions!
http://www.folksy.com/shops/loulabee
http://www.facebook.com/LoulabeeAccessories


Butterfly Crafts 
Based in the North West you will find a wonderful range of gifts for all occasions and ages. Whatever your interests you are sure to find something you like so pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/ButterflyCraftsuk


Sandra Dorney Photographer 
Based in the North West you will find high quality professional photography for your special occasions or family album. Pop over to their page for more information.
http://www.sandradorney.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sandra-Dorney-Photographer/102336956488984


Made by Mia's Mum 
Based in the North West you will find a fantastic range of handmade cards and sock creatures. The perfect place to find a gift and card together make sure you visit their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/madebymiasmum


Clips & Glitz 
Based in Cheshire you will find a gorgeous range of handmade hair clips, head bands and bobbles. If you are looking for cute and well made hair accessories then this is the place for you. Pop over to their page and see what they have to offer and if you know someone who would be interested in them please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/ClipsAndGlitz


Sweet Moments (cakes by Aly) 
Based in the Wirral you will a delicious range of handmade celebration cakes and desserts for all occasions. Just looking at their page makes my mouth water so just imagine eating one of their products!! Pop over to their page and see what they can do and if you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/sweetmomentscake


Precious Memories - Baby Hand and Foot castings
With studio's around the UK you can also find one in the Widnes/Liverpool area. They create 2d and 3d hand and foot prints and castings to make wonderful memories you can treasure. Pop over to their group page and see what's on offer and if you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details. 
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=185795129822


Sutton Soap Handmade Natural and Organic Soap 
Based in Cheshire you will find an amazing range of hand made soaps and other cosmetic items. They have a great collection and you're sure to spot something you like, if you know someone else who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/SuttonSoaps


Ever So Pretty Designs 
Based in Blackburn and Bolton you will find a great collection of handmade jewellery. These pieces make great gifts!. You can even find some beautiful handmade cushions and other great items, pop over to their page to see what's on offer and if you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/EverSoPrettyDesigns


Handmade by jojo 
Based in Blackburn you will find a fantastic collection of handmade sock animals, keyrings and nappy cakes. They have some great items at the moment so make sure you pop over to their page and take a look! If you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-by-jojo/148417798548000


If you would like to see more businesses like this then visit our website and facebook page. If you don't live in the North West Area but would like to see businesses near you then check out our other blogs.
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Vintage and Retro Style Items

Welcome to our latest special feature celebrating vintage, retro and the items inspired by them.


Right now true vintage and retro items are very much the 'in' thing and I will admit to being a fan, I do love the old fashioned clothing and the table wear and crockery is without a doubt stunning, with its pretty florals, gentle colouring and hard wearing nature but unfortunately it can cost an arm and a leg especially if you are looking for a set.


So what do you do when you want the style but not the rising costs?


Our Local Crafts has put together a list of businesses that make vintage and retro styled items or have come up with a way to recycle and redefine vintage items.


Sit back and enjoy our showcase and see if you can spot something you love at more affordable prices.


Zhuzh

Used with permission from Zhuzh

If you have a love for gorgeous hand finished home wares then you can find them here. Fabric hearts and beautiful boxes are just a taste of what's on offer. Visit their facebook page for more information and a full gallery of items created.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Zhuzh/200572753294133

Happy Plants - Everything other than plants can be delivered within the UK

Used with permission from Happy Plants

Has a beautiful range of redefined and original vintage items. With a love of plants and beauty you will find something to love and cherish here. Items sold include plants, candles and hanging hearts to name a few. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://vickyshappyplants.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/HappyPlants

Luvlii Handmade Bags
Do you have a love of fabrics? How about retro styled skirts? Then these are for you. At the moment they have a wonderful range of handmade retro styled skirts on offer as well as some beautiful handmade bags to mix and match. Make sure you visit their facebook page to see what's on offer and for a full gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/LuvliiBags

Floating vintage Designs

Used with permission from Floating Vintage Designs

If you are looking for beautiful handmade vintage style jewellery then you will find it here. Right now they have a gorgeous collection of classic pearl effect jewellery and some original vintage pieces so make sure you visit their facebook page for more details and a gallery of their works.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Floating-vintage-Designs/170834552971510

Lindy's Loops

Used with permission from Lindy's Loops

Looking for retro styled dresses and bags then you can find them here. Beautifully handmade using fantastic fabrics you are sure to find something you love. For a gallery of their works visit their blog and facebook page to see what's on offer at the moment.
http://lindysloopsuk.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lindys-Loops/107489712670765

There you are, a wonderful collection of beautiful retro and vintage styled items for you to look through.


If you would like to see more businesses like these pop over to our website or facebook page, where we have over 300 small businesses for you to browse!
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
Want to be in one of our special feature blogs? Visit our FB page for information on upcoming features. Want to feature in a blog by yourself? We offer for £1.99 per business a full business bio.