Monday 24 December 2012

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

Saturday 22 December 2012

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

Sunday 16 December 2012

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

Saturday 15 December 2012

Only 10 days remain to pick up that special gift!


We haven't had snow yet but you could feel the holiday spirit in the air today.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Claus were busy drawing crowds in at the corner of Brunswick and Bloor and within the Tranzac beautiful Christmas tunes played while shoppers perused.

Once again, we had another group of new exhibitors to check out.  Some of which I will showcase.

Delicious pickles anyone?  A vast assortment of different types and flavours of pickles were offered by 'Alchemy Pickle Company' and you couldn't beat the prices, ranging from $5 - $10.

This was a great selection of apparel and wallets by 'Claire Williams'.  Specializing in props, costumes, replicas and original designs, Claire seems to do it all.  She had a great selection at the show today of contemporary shirts and retro wallets that emulated cassette players. Prices ranged from $10 - $25.

And I positively love this booth.  Every year this group sells wonderful cat toys that support the 'Annex Cat Rescue' charity.  I picked up one of their small catnip pillows today, presented it to my two cats and after 3 hours of non-stop playing and licking, it's a bit wet but boy are they happy!  I'm picking up two more tomorrow.  Their prices range from $3 - $20.

Today's show had quite a variety of items and as usual, an amazing assortment of jewelry.  This booth from 'Black Currant Jewelry' was quite impressive.  The colours on the pendants really jumped out at you.  Prices ranged from $5 - $85, so certainly many items were extremely affordable.

Speaking of colour jumping out, check out the wine glasses from 'The Wine Glass Boutique'.  These hand painted one-of-a-kind designs were truly incredible and a perfect addition to a formal place setting. There were two prices - $19.99 and $24.99.

The theme of elegance continues with these exquisite candles designed by 'Candelure'.  At today's show they had a Christmas colour scheme; however if you visit their website you can see the breadth of colours and shapes they come in.  Each piece looks like a porcelain sculpture.  Prices ranged from $5 - $30.

This booth was interesting as it was the work of two ladies.  I guess that saying 'two heads are better than one' is applicable in this case.  They had a great selection of Christmas ornaments and decorations for windows such as stain glass decor. In addition to the festive selection, they had an assortment of jewelry to select from as well.  Designed by Lidia Cortez and Lillian Maldonado, prices ranged from $1 - $200.

Beautiful shades of reds, blues and various earth tones were certainly evident in the pieces provided by 'E & A Custom Jewelry'.  These lovely necklaces would look great with your favourite holiday outfit.  Prices ranged from $5 - $60.

A favourite amongst the kids and adolescents, 'Gillian Douglas' had a wonderful selection of backpacks and messenger style bags.  Depicting favourite cartoon characters or trendy and popular designs, prices ranged from $25 - $35.


If you're seeking a delicate glass figurine for your bookshelf or nightstand, or for your china cabinet, this is the booth for you.  'Layton Creations' had a huge selection of glass animal sculptures in the form of ornaments, sculptures, and jewelry.  Prices ranged from $5 - $10.

Still decorating your house for the holidays? If so, this is the booth for you!  This is only a portion of the large selection of stain glass decals found in 'Maggie Groves' collection.  Prices ranged from $4 - $45.

Although still 'Maggie', this collection belonged to 'Maggie Mae Jewellery'.  These items were lovely with an iridescent quality to the delicate stones and beads.  These beautiful pieces were stylish and affordable with prices ranging from $5 - $50.

A picture just does not do these items justice.  Their soft or vibrant tones really stood out and captured the essence of a true Parisian style.  There was a vast array of pouches, catnip toys, and handbags.  Designed by 'Nathalie Sanschagrin', prices ranged from $5 - $60.

If you like pepper than this was the spot for you!  This selection of hot tasty sauces is the perfect addition to you meal and cannot be found anywhere else.  Developed to fill a void in the available choices of store brand pepper sauces, these 3 sauces are a must have.  Developed by 'Pepper Brew', prices ranged from $10 - $30.

The name of the company says it all - 'Revamped'.  A great assortment of clothing created from recycled fabrics and 'revamped' to incorporate style.  Items consisted of touques, scarves, bags, and other items suitable for the winter months.  Prices ranged from $0.50 - $40.

After a long day of work, people need to rest their feet, their legs, their entire bodies and...their eyes.  Introducing the eye pillow!  Designed by 'Soothing Slumber', these beautiful pillows are an enhancement to the traditional eye mask.  Prices ranged from $15 - $20.

This booth from 'Stitch & Spoke' had too much to capture with just one picture.  A fantastic array of pillows, bags and shirts were available with simplistic designs stitched into beautiful muted or saturated tones of high quality fabrics.  The end result was either a funky fashion statement or, perhaps a perfect compliment to outfit your home decor.  Prices ranged from $18 - $60.

And continuing the theme of fashion, these amazing bags competed with many high end popular brands we've become familiar with.  The geometric patterns on the black and white bags in particular were very fashion forward. Designed by 'Taska', these works of art ranged from $19 - $100.

So December 15th ended on a high note and was a great day for everyone. It seems to get better and better as we approach the holidays.  I'm looking forward to what tomorrow brings!


Photos provided by Battey-Pratt Designs

Sunday 9 December 2012

The 'wrap-up' to the 2nd weekend!

Forgive the cheesy pun for the heading to this entry - couldn't resist :).

Today's show offered a lot of familiar faces - vendor wise, which was great to see and once again, a great selection of new vendors and products to choose from as well.

And not to repeat myself to death, but please note that this post does not include all of the vendors.  Please come by to see the extensive selection.

Let's start with the tasty goods! Who can resist delicious desserts?! The mint chocolate fudge bars from 'Templeton Fine Chocolates' are simply devine.  At $3 these are a steal!

This booth of goods was quite interesting and unusual and I say that in a very positive light.  I positively love the delicate designs on the clothing such as these owls.  These pieces designed by 'Amie Scott' are a combination of fashionable and 'avant garde'.  An affordable price range of goods from around $13 - $25.

And aren't these knitted characters cute? You name it, 'Cliff's Sister' will have a knitted product for any purpose - scarves, bags, pillows, tea cozies, hot water bottle covers, etc. Prices range from $8 - $25.

And here you may think you're looking at a fantastic array of sik scarves but no, not this time.  These are luxury wine bags designed by 'Clare Rebello'.  Not only are these the perfect final touch when presenting a great bottle of wine to a loved one, but they're eco-friendly too! At $10 each, they're a steal.


'Seirene' had some of the most unique designs I've ever come across with jewelry.  A picture just doesn't do it justice.  The colours and selection were extremely diverse.  A must see for sure!  Prices ranged from $10 - $50.

A show is just not complete without items such as what was available at 'Torched Studio's' booth.  These gorgeous dishes were one-of-a-kind and offered such rich colours.  A perfect display piece to a dining area or kitchen.  'Torched Studio' also designed jewelry that had  similar vibrant colours.  Prices ranged from $20 - $120.

And on the note of a perfect display piece for the home, these pepper mills were stunning. Believe it or not, the ornate patterns in the wood were originally placed there by nature.  These distinct etchings truly make each piece unique.  Prices ranged from $100 - $120.

'I.M.Wyred' had a wonderful selection of jewelry with exquisite hues.  These wonderful earthy shades caught my eye.  A perfect compliment to most outfits and can easily be dressed up or worn casually.  Prices ranged from around $10 - $70.

What child (or adult for that matter) can resist this booth?!  These marshmallow wands at $2 each were impossible to pass up.  The taste and presentation was top notch.  'Templeton's Fine Chocolates' had an average price range of $2 - $5 for tasty items such as fudge and chocolate novelties.

Finally, the work of 'ARTBYGAM' really caught my eye.  A delightful array of images that exude a playful quality.  The colours were wonderful!  And before you think 'original art? oh that's out of my budget', think again. Prices were intentionally set so that the average person can afford to enjoy them, ranging from $10 - $100.

This weekend ended on yet another high note.  It's hard to believe but there's only 2 more weekends remaining!  If you haven't come by the show yet, please do so soon before it's too late.  You have nothing to lose with a free entry to get in :).

Photos provided by Andy Vincent