On Saturday, November 27th, the American Visionary Art Museum transforms the 3rd floor of the Jim Rouse Visionary Center into a holiday marketplace featuring 50 local artisans and craftspeople.  The event is from 10am until 5pm and has no admission fee—so it's also an amazing opportunity for shoppers to take advantage of visiting the rest of the museum for free. Featured pieces include painting, sculpture, papercrafts, metalwork, jewelry, textiles, mixed media, and, according to AVAM, other work that simply defies categorization.
 
There is an opportunity to beat the crowds at the  preview party and sale the evening before. The party begins at 5:30 Friday November 26th and has a $20 charge. Perks include first dibs on one of a kind pieces, light fare from Sascha's and an open bar.
 
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Becket Hitch’s Maker's Market was a successful endeavor. When I walked into Woodberry Kitchen I was a little nervous, it was my first upscale craft show—ever. Ten dollars got me a glass of champagne or coffee and a small bite to eat—entry was a thread tied around your index finger—much more creative than a boring ticket. Right as I walked in I was tempted by The Floral Studio, but seeing that I am not hosting any holiday parties this year I continued down to Petal & Print, an amazing custom paper flower and stationery company owned by the co-creator of the event Katie McDonough Kutil.  I bought a great “Merci” card and these adorable mini cards with sayings like “I Love You” and “I Adore You”. So simple and beautiful. I also loved the handmade ceramics of Rob Bilek’s b.more functional. I bought a set of mossy green coasters packaged ever...

What is one thing you can’t get enough of? For me, it’s denim! Luckily, South Moon Under is hosting a free J Brand designer denim trunk show this Friday from 11-5pm at the Harbor East locale for jean junkies in the area. J Brand’s fit specialist will be onsite to help you find that perfect pair of denim for your body type, plus, a purchase during the event will get you a J Brand gift and a chance to win a free pair of J Brand denim. For more information on the event and contest details contact South Moon Under at 410-685-7820. —Jessica Hargest, intern

A few weeks ago I spent some time in Austin—my sister and brother-in-law have lived there for many years now—and it's one of my favorite places to visit. Especially this time—I was solo. The only requirements of the trip—eat & shop. The reason I love Austin so much? Aside from the live music and great food—so many amazing independent shops. I have a few favorite locations on both South Congress Avenue and 2nd Street—but my sister and I also spent a lot of time using Jewell—a local shopping resource and the city magazine Austin Monthly to guide us. I think one of the biggest differences between Austin and many other cities is how much support the local shops receive—and other local vendors/designers. It's such a healthy environment for a small, local business. 

Another big thing in Austin—food trailers. While I was in Austin we ate at about six trailers and attended the Gypsy Picnic Trailer Food Festival. The lines were insane (for a six month pregnant eater) but it was so exciting to see how much crazy delicious...