Some gals chose a career path that involves dressing to the nines and working in an office all day. It’s the usual nine-to-five job. Sometimes it’s a wonderful experience and lasts from the first day of employment right through retirement. Other gals become entrepreneurs and start their own business. Some, like myself, begin a new career after retirement. Reasons vary why women coordinate and attend craft shows, but the results are the same. We want to make a living or supplement our income. So when you see Facebook posts or flyers around town advertising “Christmas in July” be assured every vendor is offering the very best products at competitive prices.
Tammy Neveau-Bonnell is the coordinator for the vendor show coming Saturday, July 23, 2022 from 10-4 at the Little Bear East Community Center in St. Ignace. If you know Tammy, you know she works tirelessly at her “bling” business and at promoting craft shows. For a long time, Tammy enjoyed working as an employee, but the desire to be her own boss kept getting stronger. She knew she had a gift for sales and decided it was time to fly on her own. In 2018 she became an independent representative for Paparazzi Jewelry and Accessories. The company’s mantra is “fabulous fashion fun for five dollars” and Tammy could be its poster girl. She travels throughout Michigan setting up her jewelry display in towns big and small. And she’s fearless. No snowstorm, gale force winds, hail, sleet, summer rainstorms, or searing sun will stop her. So if you need some new bling to put a little pizzazz back into your life, make Tammy’s jewelry display your first stop.
From there the assortment of gift ideas—both homemade and from companies like Scentsy and Tupperware—is endless. If you’re a regular attendee at craft shows, you’ll see some familiar faces. If you’re new to the area or to Christmas in July events, you’ll be surprised at the products offered for sale. I don’t know the names of all the women participants, but I do know a few. Natalie Hoolsema will be selling Color Street Nail Dry Polish Strips for gals who want to fancy up their fingernails. Phyllis Brown spends her spare time making colorful needlepoint framed artwork, tree ornaments, coasters, and covers for boxes of tissues. Kathleen Blanchard is a sales consultant for Usborne Books. She brings a great selection of children’s books. Dottie Kinjorski creates sweaters, shrugs, scrubbies, and a host of other knit and crocheted items. Michelle White’s “Hank and His Human” is a must see. Hank wears a hand-designed leather dog collar fashioned from a recycled belt. How cool is that!
The list doesn’t stop there. With over 20 vendors to pick from, there really is something for everyone. Homemade cutting boards, coasters and colorful water epoxy tumblers in various sizes, canvas art, floral arrangements, rocks creations, aromatherapy products, homemade soaps, a variety of crocheted items, candles, and “The SideRoad Kids: Tales from Chippewa County,” a book by yours truly, are examples of what’s available for sale.
With skyrocketing prices on food, gas, and other essential items, it’s hard to think about buying Christmas gifts in July, but Saturday the 23rd is your chance to pick up some real bargains at great prices. And you’ll be helping the Mackinac County Animal Shelter when you make a donation of much needed items. Tammy contacted the shelter and was given this list of products: Mr. Clean, kitty litter, Pine Sol, paper towels, dog and cat treats, and toys—something every orphaned animal would love. Drop off your donations when you stop to shop.
So please come on out and join the fun from 10-4 on Saturday, July 23. You won’t be disappointed and you’ll be helping women who might be your friends or neighbors make a living or supplement their income during these trying times. Your patronage for us and the animal shelter is very much appreciated.
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What a great article!! Well written!!