12 Days of a Mitten Crafted Christmas
We really want you to connect with our Michigan artisans, so we are bringing you a fun Q&A on their big feature day! When you shop local you don't just support a local economy, but you support a real life human being! Pretty AMAZING!
Dec. 4 - Alex and Rae Jewelry Meet & Greet and 10% off ARJ all day! All Artisan Meet & Greets are from 4PM-6PM at the boutique refreshments provided.
Meet the Allie the Artisan behind Alex and Rae Jewelry
Tell us a little about yourself:
I started making jewelry when I was twelve; it was one of the many crafty phases I went through but unlike the others it stuck. Originally, I started working with just beads but that became boring to me so I would challenge myself to try to make things using materials that I would find around my house. Eventually I started using vintage items and this lead to the creation of Alex and Rae Jewelry. For me making jewelry is very relaxing and therapeutic but it also makes me excited and fills me with energy because it is something I love. When I’m not making jewelry I am a student at Calvin College where I study art and education.
Home Town: Rockford, MI
Tell us about your Mitten crafted specialty:
Each item that I create is unique and one of a kind. I use pieces of vintage jewelry to create something new. I like to think about the story that the items I work with have and think about how I am going to give it a new chapter.
What inspires you?:
My collection of costume jewelry that I have accumulated over the years. Each piece has so much character it doesn’t take much for the ideas to start flowing. I like to play with them by experimenting and trying different combinations. The possibilities are endless so I like to let the pieces tell me where they want to go.
What is your favorite Michigan Christmas Activity?:
Baking Christmas cookies
What are three things you can't live without?:
Books, tea and good conversations
Who is your favorite Michigan artist or artisan?:
That’s a hard one. As of this moment, I would have to say Reynold Weidenaar because I just went to see his exhibit at the GRAM this past week and I am still amazed by the intricacy and detail of his etchings. It’s incredible!
Why do you buy local?:
I love the idea of my money going to support someone in my community.
What is your most memorable and favorite family Christmas tradition?:
Every Christmas my family goes to a tree farm to find our perfect tree. It has to be 7ft tall, full, with a lot of strong branches for ornaments. I love how it fills the house with its piney Christmas tree smell once it gets home.
Connect with Alex and Rae on facebook
Upcoming Events:
Dec. 5 - A Mother's Nature Meet & Greet and 10% off AMN all day!
All Artisan Meet & Greets are from 4PM-6PM at the boutique refreshments provided.
Stop in and see us soon!
XOXO
Amber J.