So tell us, do you have a story behind your company name?

When my nephew was little he couldn't pronounce my name (Sarah) and instead would say Aunt Rah-Rah. Eventually everyone started calling me Rah, so I thought Eye of Rah was very fitting for my art business.

Cute! How did you get your start?

It all started while I was living in the Panamanian jungle back in 2017. I brought a travel-sized watercolor kit with me, because it had been neglected in a pile of art supplies that I told myself I would use "one day.” I finally woke up one morning in my jungle hammock and decided to stop putting it off. I sat down and created my very first watercolor piece. Nothing spectacular, but it made me feel alive. That piece somehow survived the jungle critters & humidity, and I still have it in my studio. If it weren't for my jungle experience and the beautiful people I met there, I would not be the artist I am today. It was the place where my soul was found. And my soul only wanted one thing - to create.

That is so fun, what an awesome experience! Safe to say the jungle provided the inspiration you needed.

My experience living in the jungle is such an inspiration, even these years later. Really being out in nature of any kind inspires me.

Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?

There are tiny finishing touches & details that go in at the end of the process that really tie the entire piece together. They are so small that no one would know that they are the power behind the piece, the reason it works as a whole image. It's like a little secret I get to keep with each piece.

What about a favorite item you have created?

Right now I'm really digging my new hemp buttons. I have a sunflower and a coneflower at the moment. They have this cool vintage look to them, and they're the most sustainable button in the market right now! One of my goals is to lessen my business's ecological footprint, and these products definitely help!

Hemp Buttons

Take us through a typical day at the studio for you?

There kind of is no "typical" day in the studio for me, which is why I love it I think. I will say there's always music playing and numerous dance breaks throughout my creation process. I do like to take time in the studio to reach out to new customers to chat, not to pitch my sell but more so to make a connection with people, to help build that great Colorado art community.

What do you love most about living in Colorado?!

How hard it is to be bored here! There's so much to do, from festivals and street fairs, to countless outdoor activities & so much live music!

What will you be bringing with you to our Arvada fair?!

I'm going to have some of my Colorado Wildflower series originals, tons of prints, stickers, pins, and a brand new series of originals as well!

What did you miss most about in person events now that events are picking back up again?

Getting an idea for where my art is going - it's nice to know who my art & part of my soul is living with when it leaves my booth.

Thank you Sarah! Anything else you would like to share?

I'm currently working on a watercolor & ink series based on my jungle experience that I hope to share with all of you soon!

We can’t wait to see you in person this September 18th & 19th when Jackalope takes over Olde Town Arvada. See you soon!

Where to see more of Eye of Rah Art co.:

Website | https://eyeofrahartco.bigcartel.com/products

Instagram | @eyeofrah_artco

Happy 10 Year Anniversary to Two Ravens!

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Happy 10 Year Anniversary to Two Ravens! 〰️

Jake: Owner and Creator of Two Ravens Soap Company

We have to ask, do you have a story behind your company name?
Two Ravens Soap Company was inspired by a ski documentary where a backcountry ski guide and a guest perished in a tragic avalanche accident. The next season, the owners of the outfitter came back to their lodge to open it up for the season and there was a raven flying around. They saw it as a good omen and named it after the guide that perished. The raven would greet them every morning, fly above them while out skiing and came back every season after that. The movie had quotes from a book called The Ravens End by Ben Gadd. I HAD to read this book and was absolutely inspired by them and how intelligent they are. How they're protectors of those who adventure out in nature, as well as all the lore behind them in Native cultures.

Ravens truly are amazing creatures! Tell us more on how you got started?

I had just quite my management job at a major retailer and was burned out on corporate management roles from the previous twenty years. I knew I was crafty and could start a small business with the passion I have for entrepreneurship. So I started thinking about what I could do. I am a huge fan of craft soaps and natural body care products and was having a hard time finding products specifically for men. Whether it was more woodsy and masculine scented products, or just products to help my body; beard care, outdoorsy lifestyle, etc. I took two months off of working after I left the corporate world to research soap making, the recipes, how-to's, equipment needs, the industry as a whole, etc. I started with some small batches just to give to family and friends, and after a couple rounds of production and great feedback, the business ideas, licensing and other exciting things that go into starting a business began. I officially launched my business in February of 2014 based out of my home in Littleton, Colorado.

What inspires you to create?

The mountains that surround me is the pure inspiration I get on a daily basis. Colorado is full of unique places to adventure. Part of the fun of exploring this beautiful State is the sights and smells you come across from just a simple hike or a big backcountry ski trip. I am very much tied to the correlation between sight and smell and use that as inspiration every time I create a new soap or product. No two experiences in the Rocky Mountains are the same. Just like my product lines.

What is your favorite part of the process?

Each time I make a soap, there's an artistic process that goes into it. From the scent blending, to color options, swirls, and the fancy tops, each aspect has an artistic flare. It's very intentional on my end, and the part I love the most about making soaps. Even coming up with new recipes for beard care, or body sprays, etc can all have a creative touch and unique, Two Ravens, spin on it. From branding to product line to scents, the Two Ravens Soap Company vibe is very unique and stands out amongst the crowd.

Do you have a favorite item you have created?

Out of all the product lines I create, I'm most excited to show off my bar soaps. Each one is unique from the scent blend, to the colors to the herbs I put on top. They truly are pieces of functional art and it's a very enjoyable process for me. Then comes all the feedback once I have them out on my displays for sale.

Take us through a typical day in the studio for you?

Usually I'm up and having coffee, feeding dogs and tidying up the kitchen first thing in the morning. Then I get to shipping any orders from the day prior as well as getting social media posts out there right away. After those are completed, if there's any emails to follow up on or messages on social media to reply to, I'll take care of those. I keep a list on a dry-erase board in the kitchen to prioritize my week of production. There's many steps to the soap making process that have to be done in a certain and timely fashion. Once I plan and prioritize my day, I get after it; weigh out the oils for the day, get the lye solution blended and into the cooling stage, gathering any soap molds I need, or specialty equipment, and then essential oils and colorants needed. Once everything has gotten to their proper temperatures for production, then it's off to the races. Each batch of soap happens really quick once the oils and solutions are at proper temp. Then it's just blending, pouring, topping and putting the slab mold on a shelf to start the curing process overnight. After each batch the equipment and kitchen get cleaned up to start the next. And as the saying goes, rinse; repeat. The end of my day is putting equipment away for the evening and preparing the kitchen for dinner. But first, a craft beer as my reward for the day.

In prepping for Jackalope, what will you be bringing to show in Olde Town Arvada?

I'm excited to bring my full lineup of natural bar soaps, beard care, body/bath care and more! I've launched a couple new product lines including my solid dish soap setup, Denali Dish Soap. It's an eco-friendly way to wash your dishes without the plastic bottle, chemicals and blue colored liquids soaps we've been so used to using our whole lives. I've also launched a Van Life edition that's easy to take with you on your camping adventures, or if you're dedicated to living in your van and working wherever the nearest road brings you.

Final question, what do you love most about Colorado?

I love everything about Colorado! The mountains are the biggest inspiration in my life, but I love how easy it is to get into any type of fun here. Plus you're not that far away from literally anything you'd like to do. The husband and I get into skiing at the local resorts such as Arapahoe Basin and Keystone, to backcountry adventures off of Berthoud Pass. Mountain biking at Keystone and Winter Park Resort is always a blast, as are just easy hiking days accessed by their respective gondolas. The dogs LOVE to ride the gondola and go for a hike. Best part is the ride back down when everyone is tired and ready for dinner and a beer. There's also plenty of lakes and rivers to get the kayaks into during the summer. Camping on National Forest land? YES! Hiking on the trails within the foothills of our neighborhood association? Absolutely! Plus we're just a few short miles away from the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater. Concerts and movies and hiking abound all right there at this world-renowned venue.

We can’t wait to see you in person this October 5th & 6th when Jackalope takes over Olde Town Arvada.

Fun fact: This will be Two Raven’s 8th year with Jackalope!!

Where to see more of Two Ravens Soap Company:
Website | www.tworavenssoap.com

Instagram | @tworavenssoap

Shop in person | 9729 W Coal Mine Ave Unit R, Littleton, CO 80123

We have to ask, do you have a story behind your company name?
My company name comes from the name of two of my boys, Fox and Hill. I had another baby boy in 2020 so we joke that he is the "baby" in Fox Hill Baby

That is so cute! Tell us more on how you got started?

I originally started my shop in 2011 after my first son was born as a way to make extra money and work a little less then at my full time job. It ended up turning into my full time career. Over the years I took classes on surface pattern design so am now able to not only sew all the items, but also design the fabric I use.

That sounds fun!

My favorite part of my process is designing the prints! There is something so exciting about taking something you drew and seeing it come to life on fabric.

What inspires you to create?

I am very inspired by my children. I love to design cute and playful prints that make them say "awwww!" I'm also inspired to create items that are made in America and stand out from the crowd.

Do you have a favorite item you have created?

My favorite item I create is our clothing. The organic knit I use is milled in the USA and my designs are printed on the fabric by a company in North Carolina. I love that I am able to make an organic product completely made here in the USA. Plus the fabric is unbelievably soft and cozy!

Take us through a typical day in the studio for you?

As a maker who is also a mom to 3 boys, my studio time is split between taking care of them and sneaking in time to design or sew. I'm definitely in that nap time hustle club at the moment!

In prepping for Jackalope, what will you be bringing to show in Olde Town Arvada?

I will be bringing cozy organic baby and toddler leggings, t shirts, hats and bibs as well as baby loveys, blankets and big kid blankets.

What did you miss most about in person events?

There is nothing like connecting with people in person! Instagram is great but I'm so happy to see people in real life again :)

Us to! And final question, what do you love most about Colorado?

My favorite part of Colorado is absolutely the mountains. My husband proposed to me on the top of Pikes Peak and now we love to spend time in Rocky Mountain National Park with our three boys.

That is so sweet. We can’t wait to see you in person this September 18th & 19th when Jackalope takes over Olde Town Arvada. See you soon!

Where to see more of Fox Hill Baby:

Website | foxhillbaby.com

Instagram | @foxhillbaby

Where are you from and does that have an affect on your work?

Originally from South Carolina, my roots trace back to a lineage of creators. In my family, artistic endeavors and entrepreneurial spirit run deep. My grandfather was a master of stained glass artwork, my father wielded his welding skills to craft practically anything imaginable, and my mother indulged in the realm of oil painting as a passionate hobbyist. Witnessing their creative journeys while growing up undoubtedly shapes who I've become – a jewelry designer. Their influences have seamlessly woven into my artistic DNA, infusing my work with a unique blend of craftsmanship and passion for entrepreneurship.   

Seeing as how creation was all around you, how did you personally get your start?
Hustling has been the name of the game for me for as long as I can remember. I’m that one friend who’s always working on some kind of side hustle on top of her full time job. In high school, my best friend and I hand rolled polymer clay beads and sold them to friends, family and coworkers in packaging with handwritten labels. I have always felt drawn to working with my hands and empowered to create a strong community built on connection, which led me to create Sheena Marshall Jewelry. Jewelry for women making empowered choices. I wanted to create jewelry that I know a lot of women have trouble finding — jewelry that is simple, functional, and consciously made.

You mentioned being drawn to working with your hands, is that your favorite part of the maker process?

I find it deeply satisfying to work with my hands and transfer what is in my head into a wearable piece of art. Drawing inspiration from various paintings and textiles, I will forever be drawn to creating designs with a mixture of subtle textures and organic forms that are small in size. I am a true minimalist at heart and believe this is showcased in my work.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

The most challenging aspect of my creative process is often carving out the time for it. Engaging in metalwork is incredibly calming to me, and I could easily lose track of time while immersed in my studio. However, as I also prioritize maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life, I've learned to set boundaries. Over time, I've become adept at recognizing when to wrap up my work in the studio and transition to other activities that bring me joy.

Life is all about balance isn’t it? Does your work help you in other aspects of your life?

My art is like therapy for me. It's a way to relax and have time for myself. When I create, I feel calm and at peace. This feeling carries over into the rest of my life, helping me deal with things in a more peaceful way.

Take us through a typical day at the studio for you?

A typical day in the studio depends on what part of the fulfillment process I am in with customer orders. As a one woman small business owner, I wear many hats. Sometimes that means I am at my bench during a production day, sawing and soldering metals. Other days I am working in the packaging department writing handwritten notes to each customer. I am very detailed oriented and tend to go into the studio with a plan for what I would like to accomplish that day.

How have you developed your skill over time?

I began my journey in jewelry making during my high school years, working with polymer clay before it became a popular trend. As time went on, I decided to delve deeper into the craft by enrolling in metalworking classes. This eventually led me to receive one-on-one instruction from a retired goldsmith. Through genuine determination and unwavering commitment, I progressively honed my skills over the years.

What does success mean to you?

For me, being a successful artist means finding a balance between spending time with my family and creating work that I'm proud to share with the world. When I manage to do both well, that's when I feel successful.

Love that! In prepping for Jackalope, what will you be bringing to show in Olde Town Arvada?

One of a kind pieces are always available when you shop Sheena Marshall in person. These are designs not available on the website so it is worth the trip to come say hello. Additionally, you will find a collection of everyday favorites that are simple, functional, and consciously handmade. Stopping by with a piece in mind that you saw on the website? Feel free to reach out and I can make sure to bring that design.

Final question, what do you love most about Colorado?

I grew up in South Carolina and moved to New York City shortly after graduating from college. After a few visits to Colorado, I knew immediately it was somewhere I could live long term. The friendly people, healthy lifestyles, and endless possibilities for activities has kept me here.

Thank you Sheena! We can’t wait to see you in person this October 13th - 15th when Jackalope takes over Olde Town Arvada. See you soon!

Where to see more of Sheena Marshall Jewelry:

Website | sheenamarshall.com

Instagram | @sheenamarshalljewelry

A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow.

-Unknown

As we get ready to celebrate Father’s Day, we want to share some of our top picks for dad from our Local Undercover site!

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Davis Wallet: CatellierMade makes handcrafted leather goods that are made to last. Get dad a new wallet, leather tray, or cord taco to help keep him organized on the go.

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Compass Cufflinks: Now that gatherings and events are beginning again, help dad with his style with these awesome cufflinks by Accessory Alchemy.

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Coffee Lover Gift Basket: For the man who loves a good cup of Joe, Redemption Road Coffee has the perfect gift basket. This set includes two one pound bags of coffee, a coffee scoop, a bar of coffee soap, and a coffee bag tote.

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Octo-Beer-Fest Tee: The perfect tee for a beer lover. Richer for Wondering celebrates animals on adventures with original illustrations on t-shirts and totes.

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You’re my Favorite Card: Made by Alissandra wants you to celebrate dad! Whether near or far send him a card sure to make him smile.

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Mother: One person who does the work of twenty, for free. Also known as superwoman. To celebrate who mom is to you, here are our top picks to help shine a light on mom.

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Cork Fabric Puzzle & Serving Tray: Not only is this an activity that you can both do together, but after completion, use the provided glue and this puzzle can now be enjoyed as a serving tray. Sumsaara utilizes cork in her eco-friendly, handcrafted pieces that mom will be sure to love.

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Relax & Repose Set- Shower Sprinkle Body Scrub Bundle: No reason why a shower can’t be peaceful and therapeutic thanks to Bonblissity, even if it is just for one minute. This bundle includes 3 body scrubs made with pure cane sugar and super fine salt to exfoliate, moisturize, and protect skin.

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Sea Lover Mismatched Earrings: How cute are these seashell and sea star earrings by Meissa Jewelry?! Including Cubic Zirconia and Mother of Pearl these are the perfect pair for any beach lover.

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Worlds Best Mom Card: Give your mom a custom mini map card by Granny Panty Designs. Simply pick any map to go on the front and include your own special message inside.

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Turquoise Bud Vase: Treat mom to some fresh blooms and pair them with this gorgeous bud vase by Betsey Carter Ceramics. The flowers may fade, but she will always be reminded of your love when she see’s this vase.

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As the temperatures rise and we embrace the new season, it is time for a spring refresh. Let’s spring forward into the changing of the seasons with these happy finds.

Poppies and Bee’s Watercolor Art Print: Changing out your artwork for the season is a quick and easy way to energize your space. These watercolor prints by Easy Sunday Club will bring a buzz of color to any space.

Spring Lip Balm: You made it through winter. Now give life and hydration back to your lips with Edith + Herbert. This floral and citrus scented lip balm will be your perfect travel companion.

Steampunk Bird Collector Necklace: The bird who dares to fall, is the bird who learns to fly. Flaunt your wings this season with this Steampunk necklace by Accessory Alchemy.

Easter Basket Bunny Pillow: Swapping out your throw pillows is another easy way to achieve a space refresh. We are loving this hand crocheted easter pillow from Melange Collection handmade in Armenia.

Floral Stationery Gift Set: Spread some warmth to your family and friends with this floral stationery gift set by Sherry Lou Studio. This set includes postcards, (1) print, sticker sheets, a greeting card and vinyl stickers.

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Sometimes you need a quick gift, or a little something as a pick me up. Here are our top 10 favorites all from our under $10 gift guide on our Local Undercover Virtual Marketplace.

Corgi Macaron Vinyl Sticker: What is better than a Corgi and a Macaron? Nothing… that is why this sticker by Artistique Loop is on one of our favorites.

Food Pun Swedish Dish Towels: Oh Kale Yes! Go eco-friendly and achieve a smile with these swedish dish towels by Corvidae.

Hand Sanitizer Spray: Having hand sanitizer on the ready is not something that will be going away anytime soon. We love this spray by Tolly’s Treatment’s that uses essential oils to combat germs.

Sand Dollar Necklace with Lava Stone and Clear Crystal : The lava stone has a calming and grounding energy and you can add your favorite essential oil to it since it is porous! Take us to the beach with the breeze in our hair and sea spray on our face.

Derma Facial Scrub: Rejuvenate your skin with The Balm Shop. Its grapeseed and poppy seed exfoliants help to remove dead skin cells, while green apple and beet root help to improve skin texture, boost hydration, brighten skin and combat acne.

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My Daily Zoo- A Drawing Activity Book: For all ages, this book is packed with 96 pages to inspire creativity.

Be Fearlessly Authentic Magnet: A good thing to to remind yourself every time you open the fridge thanks to Avant Card Studio.

Let’s Go Card: Who else is ready to hit the open road? This card by Granny Panty Designs can be mailed to a friend, or hang it up as a print to inspire your future adventures.

Beaded Earrings: Make a statement with these Maasai beaded earrings by Save the Rain. Plus your purchase will go directly to funding their Clean Water Projects in the rural villages of Tanzania.

Black Lava Sea Salt: Dress up any dish with this detoxifying sea salt by Hepp’s Salt. There is a chef inside all of us!

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Looking for eco-friendly supplies, or maybe just products that are made eco-friendly? We have both available in our Local Undercover Virtual Marketplace. Want an easier way to shop? Check out our Eco-Friendly gift guide; and to get you started, here are a few of our go to items:

Swedish Dish Towels: If you have not yet heard of Swedish dish towels, it is about time that you did! This gift set by Bespoke Provisions can be customized, and they replace up to 15 rolls of paper towels. How cool is that?!

Beeswax Food Wraps: Green Pear Organics has a huge variety of eco-friendly products. These BeesWraps are the easy answer to plastic-free food storage. They are reusable and washable. Plus, look how cute they are!

Rat in a Hat: This little guy made by Zazu Faure / Los Angeles, is made of repurposed cashmere and wool sweaters. Just think of all the adventures to be had!

Operation Game Creative Spark Journal: Not only does the front and back cover of this journal utilize an up-cycled Operation game, but the pages inside are all recycled as well. Ignite your creative spark with BeckyDesigns.

Coconut Scrubbers: Made from coconut husks, these scrub brushes are scratch resistant, naturally anti-bacterial, and long-lasting. Another Green Pear Organics product for the win!

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Whether you need something to occupy your time during the winter months, or want to learn a new hobby during quarantine; we have got you covered in our Local Undercover DIY Gift Guide. Here are our top crafty picks to keep you busy and your mind fresh!

Silk Bandana Scarf Dye Kit: This kit by Couleur de la vie includes everything you need to dye your own silk bandana using natural plant materials and steam.

DIY Circular Weaving Ecourse & Kit: Join Trudy Perry and learn how to create a circular wall hanging. Learn basic weaving skills and techniques. This is great for fiber newbies and crafty experts alike.

DIY Jewelry Kit: Sumsaara’s jewelry kit is perfect for both beginners and experienced jewelry makers. This kit has everything you need to create your own beautiful and unique cork earrings. 

Desert Landscape DIY Embroidery Kit: This beginner embroidery kit will bring a touch of warmth into your home with this beautiful desert landscape. MCreativeJ is the queen of embroidery kits!

Paper Toys: Need an activity to help occupy the kids? Little World of Beasts has created a paper toy digital download of 3 animals that are ready to be printed and assembled. Of course we love the Jackalope ;)

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