Looking for a gift for Mother’s Day or graduation? At Locally Made Market, a pop-up event in downtown Cary, find handmade items that could be just the thing for that special person.

On Sunday, May 6, from noon to 4 p.m., more than 35 talented local artists and artisans will be at The Mayton Inn in downtown Cary for the spring Locally Made Market. The first 50 shoppers will receive a special gift, with additional giveaways at the end of the event.

Buying from small vendors keeps money circulating in the local community and supports the makers directly.

“I have work from almost all of the makers at this market,” said Kayte Price of Smiling Elephant Jewelry. “And since I am a maker as well, I know that feeling when someone buys a piece and you can tell they just ‘get it.’ From the hand of the maker straight to a customer, it imparts a connection that speaks to a more honest, heartfelt communication.”

Price, of Cary, makes one-of-a-kind ornaments using found objects and trade beads. She says her jewelry has “ancient roots and a modern soul.”

“I am drawn to the beauty of nature, the spiritual and old artifacts with global history,” she said. “My aesthetic embodies the strength of all the hands that have touched vintage objects, the energy of the maker, the history of the piece, and the story of the person who receives the work.”

Pet items from Bumble and Hound and home decor items from Pretty Clever Words will be available at the market.

Noelle Whitley of Bumble & Hound agrees that the event is great for vendors, allowing them to connect with customers.

“The Locally Made Market is a fantastic opportunity for local artists to showcase their work and connect with shoppers and fellow artisans in an upscale setting,” she said. “We love the chance to make friends and connections.”

Whitley, who lives in Cary, makes handmade dog accessories, including bandanas, shirts, hand-dyed rope leashes and grooming supplies.

“We use high quality materials, unique patterns and prints, and offer a range of sizes that will fit every pup,” she said. “And because we are passionate about rescue and community, we donate 20 percent of our sales to local rescues to help pets in need.”

Laura Kasperlik of Pretty Clever Words says passion inspires her work as well. She makes tote bags, T-shirts and home décor items emblazoned with quirky quotes or inspiring snark.

“Whether humorous, sarcastic or inspirational, words matter,” she said. “The best compliment from a customer is that my pretty things with clever words are funny and different.”

Leah Mancini of Leluna Star makes items to foster creativity.

Leah Mancini of Leluna Star wants to foster creativity with her products for those young – and young at heart. Most of the items she makes are from felt, a durable product that is great for kids play, she says.

“They encourage kids to think outside the box and recreate stories or create new ones that take them on adventures,” said Mancini. “My felt masks are one element of dress up that I think is so important for kids. It allows them to dream big as their favorite superhero, escape to the jungle as an animal, or my favorite, turn into a unicorn.”

Alysa Cantor says this will be her first appearance at Locally Made Market, and she appreciates that the event showcases the “amazing community of makers in and around Cary.”

Cantor, of Guest House Pottery, creates unique ceramic pieces inspired by nature or found objects.

“I love to find vintage lace for texture and vintage images for decals and pair these with new glaze combinations,” she said.  “I also use various clay bodies and love experimenting with alternative firings.”
Because the Locally Made Market is located at The Mayton Inn, you can indulge in brunch at Verandah restaurant before the event or grab some lunch after you’ve finished shopping.

Follow Locally Made Market updates on Facebook, Instagram @locallymademarket, and the website, www.locallymademarket.com.