Handmade Brigade of Orange County

Goody Bags and Parking

2010-07-08T09:42:00.000-07:00

Whoah, BLOCK PARTY is this Saturday! That's the day after tomorrow!
If you were were asking yourself either of these questions:

1. Where do I park?
2. Where and how do I get a goody bag?

Well we have the answers!

PARKING: You can park in any metered spot, or in the Fiesta Marketplace Parking Structure. Take Bush Street towards 5th street and turn right on to 5th. The structure is on the right hand side on Spurgeon. Parking is Free!

GOODY BAGS: If you want a goody bag, the only bit of advice we can give is GET THERE EARLY! The event starts at 11 and we have exactly 50 bags to give out. The line for goody bags will start at the entrance which is in the paseo. Below you can see a diagram. We will have a huge sign to help direct you!!

This event is going to be AWESOME and it looks like the weather is going to cooperate, a nice temperature in the upper 70s. We can't wait until Saturday and hope to see you there!

Check Out Some More Vendors...

2010-07-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

Take a look at some more of the vendors that will be at the BLOCK PARTY...

chantaldefelice.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this?
I have been making the style of illustrations you see on my website for the past five years or so, starting after I graduated from the Laguna College of Art and Design. I began making paper and wood adornments with little prints of my work last August, so almost a year ago!

Where do you get your inspiration from?
My main source for inspiration is evidence of the past - simple daily artifacts, photographs and edifices. I especially love to imagine peoples lives as told through the buildings they inhabited, and I think urban settings appeal to me because of the concentration of such stories and their interactions with one another. Recently I lived in a tiny house built in the twenties and would constantly try to envision the people who had lived there through the decades and the details of their lives... the suffering, the triumph, the mundane.

What is your favorite piece of your collection?
One of my favorite pieces is a horizontal necklace pendant featuring one of my paintings of San Francisco depicting the Russian Hill neighborhood at night and a view of the city below. Prominent in the painting is another great source of inspiration for me, power lines and telephone poles... I am constantly amazed at the incredible - if nowadays antiquated - technology that is landline communication. I think, again, it is the thought of all those stories concentrated into wires just above our heads that inspires my imagination.
How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
I currently operate my business under my own name, signing items with "Handmade by Chantal deFelice". Mostly, I create pen and ink drawings on paper and Acryla-Gouache paintings on different types of scrap wood. In my collection of pieces, I think there is a nice contrast between the rich color pieces on woodgrain and the thin black line work on clean white ground. I then mount archival prints of these works onto salvaged wood blocks for quality, inexpensive and read to hang art. The earrings and necklaces have also turned out to be so much fun to both make and wear, I just love the way people respond to them with such interest and enthusiasm - what a great way to make artsy, crafty new friends!

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booandboofactory.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this?
I started Boo and Boo Factory in January of this year. I had always wanted to sell jewelry on Etsy but never had the time. As the economy got worse and I found myself out of work in architecture I decided to keep myself busy. For once in my life I had time and That's when I decided to get started.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
My mind is a jumbled mess! I can get inspiration from anything from walking around Los Angeles, art and design blogs (which I love) or from talking with friends. I love to watch movies from the 40's and 50's to get ideas from the fashion of that time. But more than anything, my inspiration comes from my training in architecture. I am fascinated by parametric and algorithmic design, which is reflected in my work. I love repetition and find beauty in anything from vertebrae, cells, nervous systems, anatomy and bio mimicry. I also love abandoned buildings and infrastructure which also can be seen in my work.
What is your favorite piece from your collection?
It's really hard to say! But I would narrow it down to the Molecular Structured hair clips and necklaces.
How would you describe you and your company in a couple of sentences?
I would describe it as native tribal meets urban architectural fashion meets a science experiment gone out of control.

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aileenhomes.com

tangyfruitgirl.etsy.com
How long have you been doing this?
I've been drawing my whole life and started working in the fashion industry about seven years ago. This inspired me to fuse my love of fashion and art in my own way. I created my t-shirt line in 2005 and started creating art prints this last fall, launching my Etsy shop in November. This is my first season of doing craft shows and I'm so excited.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I collect vintage clothing and vintage wrapping paper. My favorite era for design the '70s because that was the first "retro" period. In the '70s they were inspired by art nouveau and recreated that style in brighter colors and in looser, eclectic way. I also try to live a creative lifestyle, infusing creativity into everything I do. There's so much potential in the world and am inspired by all the creativity around me.
What is your favorite piece from your collection?
My newest pieces are always my favorites because my skills are always improving - and I get bored easily! I love the jewelry collaboration I did with Le Modern Trinket (http://lemoderntrincket.blogspot.com). Christina Sanchez creates upcycled vintage jewelry and she incorporated my vintage style characters into her lovely pieces. They will be featured both at her and my booths!
How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
My fans say that I'm always smiling and my work is happy- this is great! I hope to bring a ray of sunshine to people's lives through my art and inspire everyone to create every day!

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FAHMINA

shop.fahmina.com

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engineeredknits.etsy.com

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elsiee.etsy.com

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www.salvagelife.com

More Vendor Spotlights..

2010-07-01T14:43:00.000-07:00

CHECK OUT SOME MORE VENDORS THAT WILL BE AT THE BLOCK PARTY....

sawdustbear.com

How long have you been doing this?
I've been sculpting for years, but I've only been making monsters for a couple years now. it's funny, I spent years trying to find my own "style" and the first time I sculpted something sort of grotesque and ugly, I knew that was it!

Where do you get your inspiration from?
Bad science fiction movies, Dungeons and Dragons and really cute kittens.
What is your favorite piece from your collection?
I can't really have favorites, otherwise I get too sad when I sell them. I'm pretty fond of most of my monsters with glass eyes in them though.

How would you describe you and your company?
I make monsters.

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doublesidedtape.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this?
I've been a graphic designer for 10 plus years now and for the last 2 years, I've gotten into gocoo and screen printing.
Where you get your inspiration from?
My surroundings, nature and coffee mugs.

What is your favorite piece from your collection?
I like the "Love Trail" note card. It's sweet and I love bicycles. (first picture below)

How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
Hello! I'm Myra Greenlee and I am the soul designer at double-sided tape. I enjoy the thrill for clean and simple design. Along with my obsession for paper and all the things lovely, I am delighted to offer custom designed stationery for life's special moments.

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zfla.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this?
2 1/2 years in business.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
Inspiration comes form all around - nature, architecture, fashion design, fine art and an occasional misshapen vegetable.

What is your favorite piece from your collection?
Favorites change, but right now I'm enjoying making the dogs the most. Each one comes out a little different. (pictured below)
How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?

Zazu Faure/Los Angeles makes toys of reclaimed materials--using all the discards and scraps to fashion one of a kind animals without formal patterns. The plush designs are striped down to their essential forms, using a limited amount of moves to render each animal's essential characteristics. Each animal is unique--made of laundered repurposed wool and cashmere sweaters filled with organic cotton. Our motto is "flotsam and jetsam repurposed."

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babybystevie.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this?
I've been sewing for 15 years, but baby by stevie got started 9 months ago when I couldn't find a tie I liked for my 6-week old baby boy.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
My main inspiration is my son. Like all boys, he looks so dashing all dressed up, but there was a serious lack of stylish neckwear for little boys out there. I like to choose fabrics that I can't take my eyes off of.
What is your favorite piece from your collection?
The hot pink and grey striped necktie has such a unique mix of colors. I love the differing stripe widths and the way it goes with almost any shirt or suit. (first tie seen below)
How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
I have a BS in clothing design and worked as a patternmaker for Vera Wang in NYC before moving back to California and starting baby by stevie. The crew at baby by stevie all share my vision: revising the lack of studly styles available to all the little guys out there!

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FoundDays.etsy.com

How long have you been doing this?
I've been making art for about 17 years, and have had my etsy shop for almost a year

Where do you get your inspiration from?
I love collage/mixed-media, I'm not sure why, but I do. So I like to use a lot of found thing from the everyday, unprecious and uncostly.. can be more free with it that way, I think. My favorite materials are postcards and glue, favorite artist is Robert Nickle.
What is your favorite piece from your collection?
Hollyhock Seeds (first picture when you scroll down to see her work)
How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
I'm an artist and a special education teacher living in Long Beach, CA with my husband Chris, two step-daughters and cat, Mr. Pibb. in my studio, FoundDays.etsy.com. there are small mixed-media originals and prints, some of the work includes collaborations with a few of my good artist friends.

Spotlighting some vendors...

2010-06-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE VENDORS...

www.etsy.com/shop/dearbeatrice

How long have you been doing this?

I have been making and selling handmade items for my shop since January 2009.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
I love vintage so most of my inspiration comes from that. I also love the Victorian era and you will see that influence in the jewelry pieces.

What is your favorite piece from your collection?
My favorite piece is the Dear Marie Antoinette Ring. I love it so much I also made one for myself. (pictured below)

How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
My shop is for all of those who share my love for all things unique and crafty. It's sweet and whimsical just like me and reflects my own personal style. I make everything with my little two hands wit a lot of care.

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www.theposterlist.com

How long have you been doing this?
Been a graphic designer for 15 years. The Poster List has been running for the last 4 years, but really seriously the last 2 years.

Where do you get your inspiration from?
I get my inspiration from photography, street signs, textures, old buildings, pop culture, tv, pretty much all over the place.

What is your favorite piece from your collection?
That's a tough one, I love all the pieces. Probably the biggest resonating piece is the "Keep Calm and Rock On" poster I did in August 2008. (Pictured above the question and answer portion)

How would you describe you and your company in a couple sentences?
Pop art posters, postcards, iPhone covers, and soon t-shirts.

BELOW IS SOME OF THE POSTER LIST'S WORK

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Ever since her artsy parents and girl scouts introduced her to the world of
making things, she fell in love with being creative and getting inspired
on a daily basis to try new arts and crafts.

Check out her blog at www.cessielove.blogspot.com
or follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/arteatcraftoc

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www.theheadshop.etsy.com

Going Downtown Fullerton tote bag

Vincent van Gogh apron

Peace Pilgrim Tee

Oh Yoko/John Lennon Men's Tee

AND MUCH MORE TO OFFER...

Things you may not know about Downtown Santa Ana

2010-06-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

Here is an article wrote by Vicky Baxter, Executive Director of Downtown Inc.

Inside Downtown

By Vicky Baxter

One of the critical aspects of any Executive Director is to promote their organization and be the “head cheerleader”. As I attend many meetings and serve on many committees, I enjoy singing the praises of downtown Santa Ana. I have a 30 second elevator speech all the way up to a power point presentation extolling the virtues of shopping, dining, playing, living and why entrepreneurs should check out downtown when looking for a business location. I will be happy to speak to your group just give me a call 714-547-6100.

One of the frequent questions that I am asked is; “Do you personally shop in the downtown?” Let me be very clear: I most certainly do! Not only personally but at Downtown Inc we always shop here first and if we cannot buy it, rent it, lease it, or borrow it, we are forced to look elsewhere. We support our downtown!

To that end, I tried to compose a listing of all the merchants I have shopped in the downtown. The number was well over 110. There are over 800 businesses in the downtown so I have a ways to go before I hit them all. Here are a few: At El Faison I found a complete compilation of the Beatles music that has taken me 20 years to find! At Kid Avenue flower girl accessories are half the price of David’s Bridal. The Fiesta Swap Shops have Sketcher shoes actually ½ the price of the mall. At Christmas, I wore my boots purchased from Anna at Fiesta Shoes up to Northern California for Christmas and ended up sending 3 pairs to my daughters. The grandkids all got their winter wardrobes at Fallas Paredes saving me so much money that I adopted a family in Santa Ana and got their kids outfits too. Teresa’s Jewelers protected my wedding ring by repairing my loose diamond and had a collector nutcracker lapel pen that I just had to have. Over at the Santora Building, I have practically gone bankrupt purchasing beautiful art pieces from The Green Door Art Gallery and pictures at Ellen-Ments of Photography. Martinez Bookstore sold me their last copy of “Orange County” by Gustavo Arellano. American Apparel is where I got my youngest daughter’s Christmas outfit. AT&T right under our office is where I purchased my new IPHONE and (husband) Norm his Blackberry. Food 4 Less and Northgate Markets happen to have the freshest and best prices on fruit and vegetables and long before rolled back prices they had the best bargains and still do. Every bouquet of balloons I buy, come from Mi Fiesta Party Supply. Brian’s carries men’s silk socks by Pierre Cardin that all of the ladies in the family steal from Norm. La Moda had a corduroy jacket that was under the Christmas tree for my son-in-law. Shawn at Telas Fabrics has several unusual baskets (similar to Longaberger), that are on my list for future purchases. He’s a little surprised that people actually collect baskets. The Ford has new brakes from Firestone Complete Auto Care and an oil change from Pep Boys. Rite Aid and CVS continue to gain our sundry supplies business with quick in and out service. Calacas and Cantera’s for that international flair we can’t find anywhere else in the world! Next stop Mega Furniture, Dearden’s and Casa Linda and Ray at R & R Sportswear has a pair of striking cowboy boots that would make Norm 2 inches taller! We could see “eye to eye”. J

In the service category, the best customer service in downtown Santa Ana has to be from the professional staff at Dr. Art Lomeli’s Dental Practice. My tooth broke and they worked around my schedule and stayed late to fix it. Thanks Doc!

The restaurants in downtown Santa Ana range from Orient Express on 4^th, Venezuelan flavor on 5^th at Mil Jugos, to best goat cheese & beet salad and Southern crab cakes at Memphis, thick cut Maui style onion rings and BBQ burger at Original Mike’s keep Norm happy while I prefer their “Soon to be Famous” clam chowder and Super Cheesy garlic bread. Lola Gaspar has this smoke chicken and brie pressed sandwich to die for. Gypsy Den has the best coconut cake and unique vegetarian goodies that lure us to a healthier lifestyle (we continue to resist). Head over to the Crosby and you will be treated to epicurean delights that defy logic such as fried cheese rolled into an appetizer (huh?). My favorite Mexican and Latin cuisine comes from all these places; Jugos Acapulco, Karmina Restaurant and Grill (tilapia fish with mango salsa) , Las Briscas 2 (Queso Fresco enchiladas), Taqueria Guadalajara (steak/chicken tacos), Chimichurri, Rancho de Mendoza for lunch buffet, Mariscos Tampico (fried fish) , El Carbonero for Salvadoran, Las Casuelas and the Fiesta Imperial Meat Market that offer tortas that require 10 napkins because of all the juicy stuff inside. We’ve eaten at all of these and still have more to chose from. To all our relatives in Tillsonburg, Ontario, Canada; “Eat your heart out”. They have no Mexican restaurants! Other restaurants that we find to our liking are: 828 Pho, Tommy Pastrami for a mile high sandwich worth sharing, Bistro 400 for Romance and Chicken Marsala. All time favorite fast food; Subway, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell and Burger King (friendly employees). We like the night life; we like to BOOGIE at Proof and haven’t been to Festival Hall yet. Coffee kudos to Starbucks for their skinny latte’s. Moya’s Bakery spoiled us and the Board of Directors, with Mexican breads that melt in your mouth. Along with the great dining and gastronomic experiences, we have the YOST Theatre providing top quality entertainers in the downtown. Among them, is Carter Dewberry who resides in our district and provides music of the Gods with her symphonic cello masterpieces. Watch for more excitement as the Yost remodels and expands their venue.

As you can imagine, I’m probably in “big trouble” because I just named a few of the many I shop. That’s the fun and excitement of downtown Santa Ana. Come shop, dine and play downtown and share your good deals, good meals, good times and unexpected finds. Send me a blog at downtown-santaana.com

For Your Sweet Tooth..

2010-06-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Oh For Sweets Sake Mobile Cupakery is joining us at the Block Party also!!!

Orange County's first mobile cupakery with a menu consisting of
cupcakes, bundt cakes and even whoppie pies!

Some of the ingredients include Couverture Chocolate,
Madagascar Bourbon, Mexican and Tahitian vanillas, sweet cream butter
and fresh fruit. Topped off with buttercream
and cream cheese frosting.
Not to mention everything is baked fresh daily!

Find out where the mobile cupakery is at
follow them on twitter at
@Ohforsweetssake

Or check out their website at
www.ohforsweetssake.com

Come out and enjoy some arts and crafts
and satisfy your sweet tooth
with some yummy and delicious treats.

Yummy In My Tummy!!!

2010-06-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

The KOGI Truck is going to be at the Block Party!!!!

Kogi BBQ is a traveling LA landmark that serves Korean Mexican
tacos, spicy pork tacos, kimchi quesadillas and short rib sliders day and night.
They have four trucks - Azul, Verde, Naranja and Roja.
They are also at the Alibi Room in Culver City.

KOGI uses Twitter to tell all their many loyal followers
where the trucks will be and Chef Roy Choi's daily specials.
Follow them on Twitter at @Kogibbq.

Also check out their website that includes there menu,
pictures and their personal blog.
www.kogibbq.com

Kogi's menu consists of:
Short rib, spicy pork, chicken and tofu tacos and burritos.
Kogi favorites - kogi dogs, kimchi quesadilla, and kogi sliders.
Chef's specials - blackjack quesadilla, calamari tacos, and kogi desserts.

Make sure you come out and try
some of this amazing food that is a huge
buzz in LA and cities alike.

2010-06-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

CALLING ALL BLOGGERS

The HandMade Brigade would like to give you a personal INVITATION
to come out and join us at the BLOCK PARTY

Upon arrival you will receive a special gift
along with an escort to show you around the event and fill you in on everything we
have to offer.

BLOGGERS : If you are interested in coming to our event please
RSVP with Jessica @
jesskabrittanymegan@yahoo.com

Hope to hear from you soon and see you at the BLOCK PARTY

SUPPORT THE CAUSE. BUY HANDMADE!!

Run Down of the Roster of Vendors

2010-06-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

Come shop over 70 Indie craft Vendors selling handmade goods.
SUPPORT THE CAUSE. BUY HANDMADE!

Here is a roster and run down of all the vendors that will be at the block party:

1023 Vintage
Aileen Holmes www.aileenholmes.com
Au She Cosmentics www.au-she.com
Baby by Stevie BABYBYSTEVIE.COM
Bead Attic www.beadattic.etsy.com
Boo and Boo Factory www.etsy.com/shop/booandboofactory
Brandie Mata www.brandiemata.com
Cessie Love www.cessielove.etsy.com

Chantal deFelice www.chantaldefelice.com
Cy&Cy CYthinksyoureOK.etsy.com
DearBeatrice www.etsy.com/shop/dearbeatrice
Design with Heart
di Palermo Body www.dipalermobody.com
double-sided tape www.double-sidedtape.com
Engineered Knits www.engineeredknits.etsy.com
Fahmina fahmina.com
Fiber by Nic www.suzooswoolworks.com
Found & Made Designs www.foundandmade.com
Found Days www.FoundDays.etsy.com
Giddy Girlie www.giddygirlie.com
Girl Always Falling
J.Holden jholdendesigns.com
jam baby jambabys.com
Jenuine Articles www.jenuinearticles.com
Jeraluna Designs www.JeraLunaDesigns.etsy.com
Jewelera www.etsy.com/shop/jewelera
Julie Ann Art www.julieanna.etsy.com
Kait Emerson Designs www.kaitemerson.com
kangacoo www.kangacoo.com
Kelso Doesnt Dance www.KelsoDoesntDance.com
Kiss Every Comma www.kisseverycomma.etsy.com
Late to the Revolution www.etsy.com/shop/LatetotheRevolution
Le Modern Trinket www.lemoderntrinket.blogspot.com/
lerf ewe www.lerfewe.com
Loschy Designs www.melissaloschy.etsy.com
LOVE NAIL TREE www.lovenailtree.com
Maiden Voyage www.maidenvoyageclothing.com
Melia shopmnb.com
Merry Blues Art merrybluesart.etsy.com
Micaela Aldana Salatino www.aldanamica.etsy.com
minimalista clothing minimalista.etsy.com and mexiKITSCH.etsy.com
Molly Made www.MollyMade.net
Namaste Designs elsiee.etsy.com
Nena Soulfly nenasoulfly.etsy.com
Not Quite Vintage
Plush Parade trishans.etsy.com
PrettyParis prettyparis.etsy.com
Punk Masters www.punkmasters.com
random nicole www.randomnicole.com
Rebel Road Designs www.rebelroaddesigns.etsy.com
REDSTAR ink www.redstarink.com
Roscata www.etsy.com/shop/roscata
Rosie Girl Art www.rosiegirlart.etsy.com
Rubyblu Jewelry www.rubyblu.etsy.com
safiyabeauty safiyabeauty.com
Sail On Baby www.sailonbaby.etsy.com
Salvage Life www.salvagelife.com
Sawdust Bear Makes Things specimen7.etsy.com
Slowlane www.slowlane.com
Sol der Sur www.soldelsurshop.com
Spicy Toast spicytoast.etsy.com
Stuck On Vintage www.StuckOnVintage.etsy.com
Tacos 'n' Eggrolls
The Head Shop www.theheadshop.etsy.com
The Poster List www.theposterlist.com
tinywino handmade tinywino.com
Voz Clothing and Art
Wolves and Willows www.wolvesandwillows.etsy.com
Yellow Wallpaper Handmade www.yellowwallpaper.etsy.com
Zazu Faure www.zfla.etsy.com
zombie sugar www.zombiesugar.com

Take a peak at the vendor's site, check out what they have to offer, and come out and support.

SEE YOU THERE!! : )

2010-06-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

Well, the time has come.
The vendors have been chosen.
Now we need your help to PROMOTE!
If you are a vendor, you'll be receiving your postcards in the mail this week.
If you are not a vendor, but would like to be a part of our "Street Team" please send an email to HandmadeBrigadeofoc@gmail.com with street team in the subject. We can use all the help we can get to help get hoards of people to this amazing event!

Be sure to become a fan of HBOC on facebook, follow our TWITTER, and RSVP to our facebook event!!

BLOCK PARTY Indie Craft show, Invitation to apply

2010-05-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone!

We hope this email finds everyone happy, creative, and in the Indie Craft Show spirit!
The Handmade Brigade has been hard at work planning what is going to be our biggest event yet.....

BLOCK PARTY Indie Craft Show
Saturday July 10th
11:00 am to 5:00 pm
At the Fiesta Marketplace in Downtown Santa Ana, on Spurgeon at 3rd street.

The Details:
We are partnering with the many local businesses as well as the city to make this event huge!
Expect things like awesome indie craft vendors (duh), a Kogi Truck, food booths, live music, possibly even live dancing, live art and performances!
There will be table and 10x10 canopy booths available and information on pricing for these listed in the application.

The Location:
The place is a beautiful outdoor plaza on Spurgeon street, between 3rd and 4th street, in the heart of the cultural center of Downtown Santa Ana. Here's a little information about the place from the developers:
"Fiesta Marketplace is about to begin on a multimillion dollar redevelopment project with the goal of freshening up and modernizing the property. The project will include refacing all of the building facades and redoing the outdoor promenade to make it more welcoming and pedestrian friendly. The goal will also be to broaden the appeal of the existing retailers as well as bring in some new ones that focus more on food and entertainment. Plans are currently underway to bring the Yost Theater back to life as a independent music venue with attached restaurant, lounge, and nightclub. The goal of these improvements is to not only keep the existing customer base but to broaden the appeal to a younger, hipper, and urban demographic."
To see pictures of the area, visit our flickr site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/handmadebrigadeofoc/

What you need to do to apply:
Fill out our online application
http://fs11.formsite.com/HandmadeBrigade/form095314836/index.html?1273266835639
DEADLINE to APPLY: Monday June 1st
Acceptance letters will go out Monday June 7

This event promises to be fun, exciting, and a crowd pleaser so we hope everyone will apply!
Have a great weekend :)

Sincerely,
The Handmade Brigade

Easy Speaking, the 2nd

2010-03-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Coming to the local Detroit Bar near you on April 11th,

___________________________________

20 AWESOME vendors, music, booze, fun
and our infamous GOODY BAGS!
Get there early, be 1 of the first 25 through the doors to get one!
Filled with samples and little gifts from all of our vendors.
____________________________________

2010-02-26T14:12:00.000-08:00

The Handmade Brigade is officially out of Hibernation!
2009 proved to be an eventful year and after the Holidays, the HBOC ladies just needed a couple of months to recuperate, but now we're proud to announce that we're BACK and ready to take 2010 by storm. Mark your calendars, blackberries, iPhones, google phones......

Sunday April 11th
SPEAKEASY II
Detroit Bar in Costa Mesa
5 pm - 10 pm
20 Vendors, Music, Photo Booth, Booze

Also: SAVE THE DATE, June 12th, 2010 will be our huge outdoor event in Historic Downtown Santa Ana. We will give more details once the date is closer.
_________________________________________________

Interested in Vending?

Here is all the pertinent information along with a link to our new Online Application.
If you have any questions, please email HandmadeBrigadeofOC@gmail.com
Please read all of the following before filling out the application. The deadline to apply is March 18.
Late applications will not be considered.

Location:
Detroit Bar, 843 W. 19th street, Costa Mesa CA 92627
Event time:
5:00pm-10:00pm
Set-up time:
3pm-5pm
Booth Fee:
*$65 for a 6' table spot (must be paid within 1 week after being accepted into the show. You will receive a pay pal money request to your specified email).
Vendor Requirements:

All vendors must bring their own tables. The lights will be on inside, however it can be dim in some areas, so please bring your own lighting, extension cords, power strips, etc. if necessary.
In addition, we will give out goody bags to the first 25 shoppers who enter so we require all of our vendors to contribute to the bags. We don't need actual products from your shop, just something promotional. (Please read our post on goody bags to get ideas).
Lastly, if accepted, we will be mailing you postcards for the event and we ask that you help us increase attendance by passing them out to everyone you know. (post them at coffee shops, bulletin boards..)

Application: Please fill out this online application to be considered for vending. There are only 20 spots for this show. We know there are simply way more amazing vendors than we have spots for, so for Speakeasy II, we are really looking for innovation in your products. We want to see what's NEW for 2010! The judging process will be largely based upon how uncommon and distinct the items in your collection are.

*There are 3 specified spots that are slightly larger than the 6' table that will be reserved for clothing and vintage vendors. The booth fee is the same, $65

Thanks so much everyone! Hope to see you all at Speakeasy II as vendors, shoppers, or craft enthusiasts.
Sincerely,
Brook, Jackie, Melissa and Nina of the HBOC

Now Here's A Little Somethin' 'Bout Nosy People...

2010-02-10T13:43:00.000-08:00

True confession time, people... I am (Jackie) a nosy person. I like to read blogs. I use twitter. And I can peruse Flickr for hours on end. Simply put, I like to know what people are doing. This may or may not be the reason that I pursued a degree in psychology, sad! haha I'm not really sure why I'm a nosy sucker, but I've come to terms with it. I am what I am. Which is why I think Formspring was meant for me and therefore meant for Handmade Brigade! For those of you that don't know what Formspring is, I got you. Its a website where you can send and receive anonymous and not so anonymous questions and follow people and their answers.

Long story short, the Handmade Brigade now has a Formspring Account- yay. Which means you can ask us questions and get answers. Sounds fun, right?? So don't be shy ask us anything- random or not. And if you still feel weird about it, you can do it anonymously :)

http://www.formspring.me/handmadebrigade

P.S. Hopefully you guys know the title of this blog is from the song, Supersonic by JJ Fad. If not, then I know I'm an old hip hop head!

P.P.S. In reference to my previous blog- I am still upset that Coachella no longer has day passes available! I wanted to go Friday!

Ahhh, Coachella!

2010-01-21T13:02:00.000-08:00

There is nothing I love more than music and road trips! Ok, so crafts would be up there too. But if I need to get the creative energy flowing, nothing sparks my brain like a good concert. And Coachella is the best concert/3 day experience in Southern California. By now, I'm sure that all of you have seen the amazing line-up- its going to be crazy!! If I could afford all three days, I would jump on it for sure. Yes, they do have a layaway plan now, which is what I used last year and it was definitely worth it. I just can't spare the extra dough this year- sad. So now I'm here debating on which day to go. I really want to go on Friday to see: Them Crooked Vultures (they rock your face off live), Vampire Weekend, Grizzly Bear, Passion Pit, She & Him (who doesn't want to see Zooey Deschanel?), Grace Jones, The Avett Brothers, Ra Ra Riot, Dj Lance Rock and so many more! On the other hand Sunday boasts The Gorillaz (how are they going to show a cartoon band? I'm sure huge screens will be involved.), De La Soul, Phoenix, Sly and the Family Stone (how random is that?), and Charlotte Gainsbourg. Actually, Saturday looks awesome too, haha. What to do?

Are any of you going? Did you see that they are going to have a farmer's market on site this year- actually a really good idea. Now if only they would have a handmade section- then I could seriously live there for all three days!!

A Thrifting We Will Go...

2010-01-19T12:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year one and all! Yea, I know it's already mid-January (how the hell did that happen?). But I'm telling you, the holidays plus a crazy cold that wanted to stay forever had me down for a minute. I'm slowly but surely getting back up to speed, which for the HBOC girls, is busy, busy! Since the holidays left my inventory of vintage bags depleted (always a good thing), I had an excuse to go thrifting and flea market hunting- my favorite! I thought I'd share some of my favorite spots to search and some bargain hunting tips.

An example of a great day of thrifting for me.

My Top 5 Thrift Stores in Orange County:

- Family Thrift in Orange
No joke, this place never disappoints. I have seriously never left this place empty handed and its cheap, which is unheard of in southern California.

- Savers in La Mirada
Ok, so technically this place is in LA county, but barely. It's usually worth the drive. Plus its super organized into sections and easy to navigate.

- Rewear in Anaheim
It's all about 30% off Saturdays! They have an upstairs section that is all vintage and just below furniture galore!

- Rags to Riches in Costa Mesa
I love this place! Its a large space and it's always crammed with good things. Random good things.

- Luthern High Thrift Shop in Orange
Its all about proximity for me! This one is super close to my house. You can find some great things for great prices here. Make sure to bring cash though as they don't take card.

My top flea markets:

- Pasadena Rosebowl
Yea, it costs $8 to get in and yes, its a drive from Orange County. But I promise it's worth it. Full of great finds and you could seriously be there all day and not see everything. Just a warning though, you will find a large range of prices, some super high and some awesome steals. Its a flea market, thats the way it goes. 2nd Sunday of the Mo.

- Long Beach Flea Market
Cheaper than Pasadena at $5 entry fee with more junk to sift through. Meaning, you may have to dig a bit at this flea market, but its usually worth it. I've come away with super great finds and cheap prices. 3rd Sunday of the Mo.

- Irvine Flea Market
Way smaller than the Rosebowl and Long Beach flea markets, but it's local and there are still some great things to be found there! Plus its free! 1st Sunday of the Mo.

Bargain Hunting Tips from me to you!

- When thrifting, for some reason Wednesdays and Saturdays seem to be my best days. If you are going on a Saturday, the earlier the better. It's no joke that southern California vintage is a hot commodity, so you have to be the early bird to get the best wares!

- That being said, I have found that although I get first crack on the best stuff early in the day at flea markets, I get the best deals later in the afternoon. Its kind of a crap shoot. I usually like to come at 11am or so, that way most vendors are willing to talk prices down because they'd rather that than not make a sale and at that time they still have good stuff left.

- Don't be afraid to bargain when at the flea market. Most sellers mark up their prices just for that reason. I usually ask the price and then counter with what I think is fair. Bear in the mind though, I know what things should go for. It's all about practice. And if something is super cheap and you want it, don't negotiate further, just buy it. Don't be a sucker! haha

Not to worry, I'll have more places to share with you guys next month!

Christmas is a time of giving....

2009-12-28T20:15:00.000-08:00

SO for Christmas we ( The Handmade Brigade Of OC ) were contaced by Mercy House to see if we wanted to be part of their Stockings for homeless children living in motels all over orange county... Of course it pulled on my heart strings so we decided to make a craft party out of it!! It was a bunch of fun and good to know it was going towards a good cause. We bought the stockings and then had a crazy amount of crafty stuff to decorate them. People went a little crazy....

Some were literally 2 hours stockings... I made some myself and they were super easy... I turned all mine into reindeer hahahahha...

I guess the kids probably wont really care about the outside of the stockings but more whats inside but it was a good way to get people to come and celebrate Christmas by giving to those who are less fortunate then ourselves. Also got a chance to hang out with fabulous people who always support all our events. One being Frances and her Husband... Shes great! She always helps us with anything we need!!!

We also had a bunch of great sponsors who helped donate food and money to our event.. If it wasn't for everyones great support it wouldnt have been as sucessful as it was! I hope to make this an annual event for the HBOC.

How was everyones Christmas???

Here is a blast from the past... the freaking best Holloween costume since 1960... Honestly... this is genius!

This is my uncle hahahahhaah!

LB Patchwork is Sunday

2009-11-25T10:12:00.000-08:00

Happy Pre-Turkey day! Don't forget that this Sunday is Patchwork Long Beach! All of the info is on the poster and the Handmade Brigade booths are right towards the entrance, #44, 45 and 46.
Hope to see you there!

Sunday is PATCHWORK

2009-11-13T15:15:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the lack of posts we've had on our official blog..there are so many projects in the works for us right now! Expect a very extensive update next week about our upcoming events we're planning and participating in, but for now, be sure to visit us at PATCHWORK SHOW this sunday in Santa Ana. We'll have all the info you need about our upcoming "Stocking Stuffer" event too! Hope to see you there

Oh Goody

2009-10-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

So one of the highlights of the Handmade Brigade Indie Craft shows is the coveted "Goody Bags" given to the first people to enter the event. The tote bags are filled with promotional items from craft companies like Sublime Stitching, etsy.com, but mostly from etsy sellers (local, and not-so-local). For the HBOC Holiday Indie Craft show happening Nov. 1st at The Camp (11-5) we are asking all of our fabulous vendors to donate 25 promotional items for the bags! By "promotional items" we mean something that will "promote" your shop. A promotional item could simply be a business card, a 1" button, a coupon, stickers, magnets, candy, or an actual item that you might sell in your shop. What would make someone want to visit your shop online? Pictured below are items donated from etsy sellers for the SPEAKEASY Indie Craft show to give you some ideas of clever ways to promote your shop.

1. Sample of bath product from Lemon Lollipop

2. Coupon and eye color sample from Orglamix

3. Business card and button from The Pinpals

4. Felt strawberry and business card from Softie Cafe

5. Magnet and 1" pin from Down Home Amy

6. Strawberry charms from less apathy. more cake

If you are still unsure about what to donate to the goody bags, or of you aren't a vendor at the HBOC Holiday Indie Craft show but would still like to donate items to promote your shop, please send an email to HandmadeBrigadeofOC@gmail.com.

Now accepting Applications!

2009-09-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

The Handmade Brigade is proud to announce that we are accepting applications for our Holiday Craft show:

HANDMADE BRIGADE holiday show 2009

Sunday November 1st at
THE CAMP 2937 Bristol Street Costa Mesa, CA 92626
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

To apply, simply follow the instructions on our apply page on the HBOC website. We will have artwork for the show in a few days, so keep on the lookout! Be sure to apply as soon as possible!

Speaking Easy

2009-09-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

September 20th marked the day of the HBOC's Speakeasy Indie Craft Fair, held at Costa Mesa's Detroit bar. Unlike indie craft shows we've presented in the past, this one was quite distinctive because it was tucked away inside a bar! Shoppers par-oozed the fabulous vendor's booths with drinks in hand while listening to records spun by a DJ. It made for a very class and relaxed experience!

To see all of the photos, visit the Handmade Brigade's Flickr site

A HUGE thank you to all of the Vendors who came to sell their beautiful handmade treasures as well as the etsy sellers who contributed to our very sought after goody bags! Without all these creative spirits, there wouldn't be incredible indie events.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
November 1st
Handmade Brigade Holiday Show
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Camp, Costa Mesa

If you are interested in being a vendor and haven't applied yet, you may fill out the form here.
We will be posting more information about the show very soon!

Goody Bags!!!

2009-09-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Our show is just around the corner!!! Sunday at 5pm! Be there or be square! Make sure you come early. First 25 people will be getting one of our awesome bags! FREE!!! The best part? They are made by us! Reconstructed t-shirts into eco friendly bags with our awesome logo!!! I also had Etsy as well as many Etsy shops donate samples and promo items for the bags... I also am super excited to announce that my favorite indie business

SUBLIME STITCHING sponsored us and has given us free patterns to add to the bags! YYYAAAAYYY !! See you Sunday!!!

It's Here, it's HERE!!!!

2009-08-31T16:43:00.000-07:00

The Coast Magazine article is here! We met Jessica of COAST magazine for coffee last month in Newport and a couple of weeks later, was the dreaded Photoshoot. Needless to say, the article was fabulously written. To read it, click here and navigate to page 36.

Don't forget, SPEAKEASY is right around the corner on September 20 at Detroit Bar in Coast Mesa. (5-10pm).

Ladies and Gentlemen: The Line-up

2009-08-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

So we've finalized our lovely vendor line-up for the Speakeasy Craft show (Sunday September 20, 5-10 PM, Detroit Bar) and we honestly have the best most awesome handmaidens and Handfellows (what's the equivalent of maiden for a guy? haha). I hope everyone realizes how much fun this show will be!

MandaLanda
Knickerrocker
Loverly Ink
Salvage Life
Not Quite Vintage
Voz CLothing & Art
Melissa Loschy Designs
Tacos n' Eggrolls
Fourth & French
Wolves & Willows
The Boo Dog
Heirloom CLothing
Sons of Thunder
Yellow Wallpaper
Annierexic
Melt Brianna
Polly Danger
Oh Hello Friend
Love California
Random Nicole
Zombie Factory
Tyler Bender Book Co.

Karen Kang Art

Nan Lawson

It's coming!

2009-08-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Melissa's turn

2009-07-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

So today the last of the 4 Handmade Brigade girl profiles was posted on OCweekly about Melissa Loschy Designs. Read it here!

2009-07-30T16:05:00.001-07:00

Thanks again to Steph Calvert of Hearts and Laserbeams from the OC Handmade Brigade! In this third article, she wrote about Jackie of Voz Clothing and Art. It's on OCWeekly.com. If you comment on the article, you're entered for a chance to win a gift basket filled with goodies from each of our shops!

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Read the article here

Hooray Brook!

2009-07-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks again to Steph Calvert of Hearts and Laserbeams from the OC Handmade Brigade! The second article she's written about Brook Owens of and HBOC is up on OCWeekly.com. If you comment on the article, you're entered for a chance to win a gift basket filled with goodies from each of our shops!

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Read the article here

Yay Nina!

2009-07-27T14:11:00.000-07:00

A big thanks goes to Steph Calvert of Hearts and Laserbeams from the OC Handmade Brigade! She's writing profiles of each of the HBOC girls for OCWeekly.com. Her writing is incredibly witty. Nina is the first of the 4 to be featured. If you comment on the article, you're entered for a chance to win a gift basket filled with goodies from each of our shops!

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Read the article here

Welcome!

2009-07-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

Read the article about us in OC Register

The Orange County Handmade Brigade is a brand new renegade craft club made up of entrepreneurial indie crafters all living in orange county who meet up to share ideas and plan events. To find out more about the Handmade Brigade girls, head to our member section.

Be sure to check out this blog regularly!