For all the convenience of online shopping, being able to touch and try-on in person cannot be beat. Even better to be able to meet the maker while you shop. This weekend is the perfect opportunity for Californians, both in the Bay Area and Los Angeles, to shop small this holiday season. See the incredible people behind the goods and leave with unique gifts for everyone in your life. It’s a double-whammy for those of you in Los Angeles this weekend with both West Coast Craft and Echo Park Craft Fair, while those of you in the north can make your way to Sacramento’s own Makers Mart. We’re sharing those vendors we are most excited to see at these not-to-be-missed events.
WEST COAST CRAFT, DOWNTOWN LA
Some of our favorite Bay Area creatives are headed to Downtown LA for West Coast Craft this weekend (December 7 and 8). Including the very talented ceramicist Zoe Dering, who will be showcasing new pendant lights along with her incredible vessels. The ideal gift for your foodie and pottery-obsessed friends.
We’re also so excited about SUN, the Southern California jewelry maker bringing the magic of the Southwest in gold and inlaid natural stone. The Paloma ring in turquoise or deep lapis lazuli would be the perfect addition to any hand. We love that her jewelry is timeless and genderless, a beautiful gift for someone you love.
ECHO PARK CRAFT FAIR, LOS ANGELES
Not too far from WWC, the Echo Park Craft Fair is celebrating their 10th year, December 6-8. The line-up is the stuff of dreams. Too many to mention, but with the holiday season in mind, we’d head straight to favorites like Dôen, Babaà Knitwear and Rudy Jude for matching clothing for mama and child. Tea from Leaves and Flowers pairs perfectly with petaled shortbread from Lori Stern. For decking the halls, you cannot miss this rare opportunity to get your hands on treasures sourced in Mexico by the incomparable Øgaard.
If you’re going to shop ‘til you drop, make sure you’re dropping down into the incredible shearling wonderland that is Shepherdess Holistic Hides. This year you’ll find their super fun pillows amongst their mindfully sourced, ecologically sound hides. Make sure to pop over to Shepherdess partner, Laura Schoorl’s other booth for all things Pansy (the best organic cotton panties, bras, socks and so much more). Can you say stocking stuffer?
MAKERS MART, SACRAMENTO
Is it just us or does Makers Mart get better and better every year? This year, they’re activating a raw space and we cannot wait to see how these makers bring it to life. This year should be especially festive with cocktails by Burly Beverages and natural wine curated by Jeune. Ambience credited to installations by Sacramento-based floral artist and magic maker, Oak + Ash. Take inspiration for your holiday home decorating!
The first (and last!) stop for us is definitely Bitte. This one-stop-shop is perfect for all things baby, mama and child. Make sure to pick up something precious for all the mamas or expecting mamas in your life or something fun to stuff the stockings of all the littles you know!