Here is the next batch of vendors I spoke with at the Buyers Market.

Dovetail
The next booth I visited was Dovetail, a husband and wife team who create stark white porcelain dishes decorated with bold black graphics.  Of course, I loved the octopuses the best.  The bright red shelves were the perfect display for the simple and sophisticated pieces they were showing.

After explaining who I was, Josh offered me a press kit.  What a great idea!  It was three pages, a postcard, and a business card bundled together with a square paper clip.  The presentation was professional without being fussy.  All of their materials (press kit, website, and merchandise) are well branded and feel like parts of the same whole.

Kimmchi
It seemed that the Buyer's Market clustered some younger, hipper exhibitors in the center of the hall, and that's where I found Kimmchi sharing space with several other Etsy sellers.  She only uses American Apparel clothing and water based inks.  I love the intricate, layered designs she hand prints in and adventurous colors.  Paisleys, swirlies, geometrics ... you had me at hello.

This photo in particular doesn't do her goods justice ... totally my fault.  If you check out the Kimmchi Esty Shop, you'll see what I mean.

Kimm was the most enthusiastic person I met at the Buyers Market.  She had a bright personality, a sparkly warmth, and an open forthrightness that really draws you to her.  You want to hear more of what she has to say.  Not only was she articulate about her own products, but she easily told me all about her exhibit-mate's product line as well ...

Cakehouse
Kristin of Cakehouse had stepped away from the booth for a moment, so Kimm filled me in on the the details.  Kristin transforms vintage textiles, mostly bedding, into home accessories after adding adorable silkscreened details.  I particularly love that fox ... especially in the blue.

When Kristin returned, we talked about how her handmade products convey a warm familiarity.  I think they are exactly the kind of thing a person who values handmade would buy for someone else as a gift if they didn't have time to make something themselves, especially for events like a new baby or a first home.  

People are staring to see the value in handmade items, they don't always have the time or skills to create things themselves. Even though Cakehouse items have a special hand crafted glow , you would still feel good about using them everyday; treasures without being too precious.

I can't believe I'm only half-way through our tour of the exhibit tour.  Stay tuned for more Buyers Market goodness in the next installment.