Business Name: Artful Mélange
Shops where people can find you: on etsy
Personal bio: I am a wife, mother and artist with a background in graphic design. Although I do love the graphics world, my heart has been guiding me more and more in the direction of mixed media art. I am happiest when I am creating with my hands – whether it be painting, sewing, sculpting, etc. I also have a love for finding vintage treasures.
How did you start your business & why? I have always been artistic and crafty. After spending many a holiday and birthday making gifts for friends and family, I began to dream of what it would be like to have people (even strangers) want to buy all the fun goodies I was making. A girlfriend of mine had already made that leap and was very encouraging for me to go for it as well. She gave me the push that I needed. I am a mother and wife first and foremost, so my beginning has been a slow process. I am in love with selling my stuff both on etsy as well as at JITT. Both afford me the ability to put myself out there but still be the wife and mother I strive to be.
How would you best describe your style and the items you sell? Mélange in French means “mixture”. I love to constantly evolve and change what I am working on. I sell everything from my own personal mixed media paintings to altered vintage finds, furniture and ephemera for those who also want to try their hand at mixed media art. I also throw in many of the antiques that I find while I am out junking!
When was your first Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market? My first JITT was the November 9th, 2013 show. I have taken part in every one since!
And what is your favorite part about the event? Or a favorite memory? I remember being so nervous not knowing what to expect. I had the tiniest little space that I decorated the best I knew how – only there was no room for me to stand without feeling like I was in the way. I spent the whole day dancing around my booth to avoid blocking anyone’s view. I was sold on the whole thing within the first fifteen minutes after feeling the rush of having so much positive feedback. People where buying my stuff!! That’s the best feeling in the world!!
What’s your favorite place to get away in the summer? Isle of Palms beach in South Carolina. I was born in Charleston, so this area holds a special place in my heart.
Thank you so much for sharing Shannon! Go check out Artful Mélange and show her some Junkin’ Love!