Saxapahaw was a mill town and is still dotted with small homes that have been lovingly renovated. About 15 years ago, a tornado swept through here–it traveled down our property line, scared the heck out of our horses, and cut a path to the center of the village. The mill, which was still in operation, was badly damaged. It took a while, but the Jordan family and others in the community restored the mill and adjacent buildings and Saxapahaw is enjoying a renaissance as an eco-friendly place with both visual and performing arts (Paperhand Puppets and music events), wonderful restaurants serving locally produced food, a pub, art gallery, winery, antique and book shops, and more. A few years ago, Tom and Heather LaGarde offered to allow local businesses to have a holiday show in their Ballroom, which is what used to be the dye room of the mill. This year we had more vendors than ever before, and a parade! Apparently, years ago, Saxapahaw had a holiday parade, so it was nice to revive this tradition. As before, we had wonderful live music.
Out of the Fire had a booth there, with small sculptures and ornaments.
One of my Pet Peeves. This one holds business cards and he sold minutes after I unpacked him!
I made only one–note to self–MAKE MORE!!!!
I always like to have something new for each show and people have noticed. It was wonderful to have clients visit and get another ornament again this year, saying one of their holiday traditions is to get a new ornament from me.
New this year maiolica snowmen:
Below, snowflake ornaments. Our local gallery, Saxapahaw Artists, carries these colors, so I came up with another color to sell at my booth. Can’t believe I didn’t get a photo–will have to so that!
Snowflake ornaments at Saxapahaw Artists Gallery
We also had a clay table and kids (of all ages) could make an ornament. Even toddlers make an ornament, with the help of their parents, and new parents made an ornament to commemorate their baby’s first Christmas. I took them to the studio, fired them, and people could come and glaze them.
Young artist glazing his ornament
A tray of ornaments, glazed and ready for their second firing.
How cute are these?
A three year old girl made this lovely ornament. It is very elegant-the photo does not do it justice.