mamamade.biz

Tentatively----- SPRING 2009!

2008-10-03T14:36:00.003-05:00

Announcement!!!!

Mamamade will not have a Fall Market this year. News to come about a Spring 2009 sale!

Thank you everyone for your interest.

TODAY!!!

2008-04-26T10:53:00.005-05:00

Why are you at your computer reading this???

Get over to Lillie Belle's and the Franklin Main Street Festival RIGHT.NOW.

The MAMAMADE 2008 Spring Market is TODAY from 9-2pm!

We'll be there RAIN or SHINE!

2008-04-25T18:27:00.002-05:00

As the weather report for Franklin is iffy right now, this post is to assure you that we will be there RAIN OR SHINE. And, happy shoppers, you'll also be covered under Lillie Belle's lovely canopy- so no worries!

Bonnie Burch article up on Tennessean.com

2008-04-25T11:36:00.003-05:00

If you missed it in print, the article is up online here. Thank you, Bonnie, for your wonderful article!

Mamamade on Talk of the Town

2008-04-23T22:24:00.003-05:00

See the Mamas in living color on Talk of the Town under the headline: Artistically Juggling the Demands of Motherhood.

Many thanks to the kind and talented folks at News Channel 5 for the wonderful story.

Featured as a Nashville Scene Critic's Pick!

2008-04-23T21:32:00.002-05:00

Someone out there loves us because we're a Critic's Pick in the Nashville Scene! Thank you Carrington Fox for mentioning us!

Mothers Know Best
MAMAMADE MARKET 2008 The 4-year-old Mamamade, an entrepreneurial collective of creative mothers, holds its first-ever spring sale in Franklin, to coincide with the city’s Main Street Festival. The cooperative of cottage industries includes more than a dozen multitasking moms, who—between wiping noses, doing laundry and scrubbing crayon off the walls—somehow find the time to create gorgeous lines of unique jewelry, toys, handbags, quilts, stationery and children’s clothing. You can also shop Mamamade online at mamamadebiz.blogspot.com. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lillie Belle’s of Franklin, 132 Third Ave. S. —CARRINGTON FOX

Sign up to WIN our Gift Basket!

2008-04-22T12:39:00.005-05:00

When you come visit us at Mamamade Market, do not forget to sign up to win our fabulous gift basket! What's in it, you ask?

Check this out:

zippered pouch from Urban Hen
china jewelry from His Hands Design
baby kimono from Tomo&Edie
several Paint Chip Flowers from The Creative JAR
a travel set from Babybearshop
newborn onesie from Los Pollitos Dicen
bib and burpcloth set from Two Green Olive Trees
composition book with re-usable cover from White Cottage Design
pack of notecards, bib, and 2 hairbows from Three Pine Design
chore chart and do-it-yourself greeting card CD from Julie Clark
photography card from Tisra Fadely Originals
jewelry from Freshie & Zero
goods from Knit Owl Toys
bookie sketch pad from Beth Howard Studio
set of greeting cards from Sankai Yesu

That is HUNDREDS of dollars worth high quality of merchandise! Don't miss out!

Set your TiVos and check the Tennessean -- we've got Press.

2008-04-21T12:20:00.010-05:00

Meryll Rose of Talk of the Town

The Mamamade Mamas recently were interviewed by the lovely Meryll Rose from Talk of the Town, and Williamson A.M.'s dear Bonnie Burch. Both interviews are expected to run this week, leading into our show on Saturday.

Nashville Channel 5's Talk of the Town is scheduled to air Wednesday (April 23rd) at 11 a.m. with encore airings on Channel 50 at noon and 4 p.m. the same day, and again at 9 a.m. on the 24th.

Sharon of Urban Hen and Meryll Rose

Our children were ready for their close-up

Bonnie Burch gets a lesson on pine needle baskets.

The Williamson A.M. piece will run Thursday or Friday. If you see it before we do, let us know!

Both stories will offer a detailed look at Mamamade and our unique products.

Look at this Ms. Cheap!!!!!

2008-04-20T09:19:00.010-05:00

Mamamade always has a wonderful offering of high quality goods from amazingly talented moms. But, did you know that attending the Mamamade Market also means that you can score a really good deal? Many of our Mamas are going to have specials, deals, clearance bins, or promotional prices specifically for the Mamamade Sale day on April 26th! We think it would make Ms. Cheap proud.

A sampling of the fabulous deals to be had:

- Tomo&Edie will have the bargain bin that was super popular last time.

-Par Deux Meres will be offering our hand painted handbags at an introductory price of $100 at the Mamamade Franklin event. The Par Deux Meres bags will be retailing in stores for $150. Not only is this a substantial savings but also a chance to own one of the first produced.

-White Cottage Design and The Creative JAR will be offering 10% off your purchase if you sign up for their mailing list.

-BABYBEARSHOP will have these bargains: buy an 8 oz Mama Belly Oil and get a 4 oz for free, buy a 4 oz Cheeky Baby Butter and get a 1.7 oz for free

- Tisra Fadely Originals will be offering prints of original watercolors for $10, rather than the normal $12.

- Los Pollitos Dicen will have some inventory closeouts for as little as $4 and $6 -- bibs and t-shirts.

- His Hand's Design will have some select jewelry on sale to make way for new merchandise.

I'm a jeweler not a blogger so here's the rest of my blog that I deleted

2008-04-14T11:00:00.004-05:00

this is the end of the next blog down (new stuff at HHD) .

A Wedgwood China collection!
And As always - you can bring me one of your own plates and place an order!!
See Ya at the sale!!

New stuff at His Hands design

2008-04-14T10:47:00.003-05:00

My work area is TOTALLY messy- which means, lots of pieces being created!
At the Mamamade Spring Sale HHD will be introducing a few new designs-

Tea Cup Handles! They look so great finished !

A Flow Blue China collection!

Preview of Freshie & Zero

2008-04-14T06:19:00.002-05:00

Above is a picture from my booth this past weekend at the Dogwood Arts Festival in Knoxville. I debuted several new pieces that aren't yet on my website, including the "Cartwheel" earrings pictured below:

The above pair have peridot, but I'm making them with amazonite, aquamarine, and more! Be the first to get them by coming to Mamamade!

Tree Hugger Company

2008-04-13T21:58:00.003-05:00

Hello all,
My name is Amber Hernandez. I've been married for nearly 3 years to my best friend, Abel. My two boys, Austin 12yrs & Alexzavier 2yrs, are my life! I'm a new homeschool mom and huge church goer! If I could live at Bible Baptist in Hendersonville, I would :)
*Anyway, This is my effort to tell you more about my site and what I do. I got into sewing last August. I purchased a 50-70 yr old machine that has been named "Gracie". Why?, because only by her grace will she let me sew. If she doesn't have my full attention when I'm sewing, she WILL NOT sew for me!! & no I'm NOT joking.

So, I decided that I needed a "thing", ya know, a hobby. I do have quite a few that I've been interested in (and decent at) over the course of my life, but wanted to do something... new to me but deeply rooted in women's history. I'm very old-fashioned in my young 29yrs. So, sewing it was. Lots of "mistakes" and prototypes later, I started the Tree Hugger Company, why? cuz I'm a tree hugger! :) I love this Earth! Our good Lord made it for us to live upon & I feel it's our responsibility to take care of it.

The 'Company' is the title I use to sell my goods but 'The Community' is my ultimate mission to open the world of green living to everyone. I inspire to connect environmentally concious companies with green-minded consumers. (Is.60:22)

Pretty soon the community portal will be up, running, and oh so functional! I'm very excited (too much so!) and pray that God will use me through this site to reach millions of people to save and protect our planet that He created for us.

In His Grace,
~Amber

TuTu Snazzy

2008-04-12T21:23:00.003-05:00

TuTu Snazzy is the creation of Michelle Cutright and Jayne Riand of Nashville, Tennessee. We met and became friends through the local website MusicCityMoms.com. We're both mothers of girls who love dressing up! Michelle has a 2-year-old, and Jayne has a 14-year-old and a 3-year-old. Having all these girls around led to some experimentation with our own tutu t-shirts. Our girls have enjoyed our tutu designs so much that we decided to expand and offer our products for purchase. We also make unique baby shower gifts including diaper cakes, diaper wreaths, and quilts. Please visit our website for pictures of some examples of our work. We're looking forward to seeing YOU at the Mamamade Spring Show!

Let Imaginations soar with KnitOwl Toys

2008-04-11T16:23:00.006-05:00

KnitOwl toys are flying the friendly skies with toy airplanes and happy-faced jumbo jets. Come see us at MamaMade April 26th!

Soft squeezable airplanes and jets are fun to swoop through the air
Our handmade toys are for girls, boys and the young at heart. Each one is made from an original hand-drafted pattern created by artist Marie Lamb. We also do custom color orders in our classic line of dolls, toy horses, rabbits and more.

Green Jumbo Jet
Come see our ever-changing line of classic and unique toys at KnitOwl Toy Shop mariemeyer.etsy.com

Cute Slugs
won't eat your garden because they come with their own 'slug food.'

Something New From Creative Minds

2008-04-11T10:04:00.004-05:00

Here is a preview of what we will be showcasing at the Mamamade Market! Take a look...

From Tisra: Inexpensive Art Prints

2008-04-11T09:21:00.004-05:00

Here's a deal for you! At Mamamade, I will be offering prints of my original artwork at the discounted rate of $10 (normally $12+shipping in my Etsy shop)! Each print is professionally produced with a glossy finish on heavyweight cardstock. Suitable for framing, or pinning to a corkboard, or taping up on the wall- cheap enough to grab a few!

From Tisra: Untitled

2008-04-08T14:17:00.002-05:00

Watercolor and India Ink on Strathmore watercolor paper

9x12" image size

Original, signed and dated

*Available at Mamamade Market!*

Wanna preview our stuff?

2008-04-07T10:05:00.005-05:00

Check out these mamamade on-line shops and blogs!

Elizabeth Behan featured on Breakfast with Bulger!

2008-04-04T10:06:00.008-05:00

Congratulations to one of our Mamamade Mamas, Elizabeth Behan, on her Channel 4 appearance this morning!

Terry Bulger is an Emmy Award-winning reporter whose story highlighted her unusual and beautiful jewelry created from broken china. Break one of grandma's dishes? Call Elizabeth and she will surely turn it into something that gives you joy again. Smashing of plates can even be seen in the feature Terry did, with Elizabeth's sweet son, Teagen, holding his hands over his ears during the crashing sounds!

Job well done, Elizabeth! And, thank you Terry Bulger!

The video can be found here on Channel 4's website.

And Elizabeth's creations, under the name His Hands Design, can be found at the Spring 2008 Mamamade Market on April 26! See you there!

White Cottage Design

2008-04-02T09:50:00.004-05:00

White Cottage Design "a unique boutique"! White Cottage Design is a place to find beautiful things for beautiful people, you will find an eclectic fabric mix on classic designs. Using fabric, needle and thread I design and create mostly one of a kind handbags, aprons and accessories that include composition notebook covers, kids color books, scarves, bottle carriers, office sets and more. Each item is created one stitch at a time and may not be reproduced again. My use of quality materials and attention to detail provide a unique product.

My other venture is Par Deux Meres which will launch April 26th at the Franklin Mamamade Event, my partner is Jodi Reeves of The Creative Jar. We have created one of a kind hand painted "arm art" that will be available in limited series, signed and number by the artist.

I am very excited to be a part of the Franklin Mamamade event and look forward to meeting everyone.

From Tisra: Photography

2008-03-31T10:35:00.009-05:00

Images of architecture are often most interesting to me when I'm looking through my lens. The shapes, textures, and beauty found in these places becomes inspiration for other designs in my sewing, knitting, or painting. At Mamamade, I will have signed prints, and blank cards for sending via post. Truly, who wouldn't love a bit of "functional art" to come through their mailbox. I know it would brighten my day!

Help us spread the word!

2008-03-30T23:38:00.005-05:00

Use this blinkie button to help spread the word about the Mamamade 2008 Spring Market!

Simply right click and grab the url and then put it in your e-mail signatures, on your blog, or in your signatures for any on-line forums you participate in!

Thanks!!!

PS - You can also grab the flier HERE!

I just found us on the Tennessean.com!

2008-03-30T17:58:00.002-05:00

Yay! Check it out here.

Check us out!

2008-03-28T14:39:00.000-05:00

We've been featured today on Music City Bloggers!

Participant Bio: Elizabeth Hutchison

2008-03-27T14:22:00.011-05:00

greetings from two green olive trees!

This spring I am so excited for many reasons…our family discovered that we are expecting baby Hutchison #5! Yeah!

(for those of you who don’t know, we currently are blessed with four wonderful boys!) My life is very full! Between home schooling

and keeping my home, which are full time LOVES of mine, I try to sew & create in my “spare time”…which is usually quite spare indeed!

Secondly I am so excited, along with most of you, to be participating in this years first ever spring sale!

Isn’t spring awesome! Fresh air, everything is in bloom, life reemerges!

And so here at two green olive trees there are some fresh new products to show you that I have slowly been creating.

I first started creating with the ever functional bibs & burp cloths, blankets and diaper sacks…

New this year I have my “baby la leche”, the stylish breastfeeding apron to help keep breastfeeding under cover; and

I also have some adorable lounge sets for your adorable little ones. As always, all my items are available in a variety of

Stylish, designer fabrics…made specifically to order, just for you.

I’ve also got some gift ideas such as little girl headbands and fabric magnets that I am working on…

I am so looking forward to the sale and meeting many new mama’s this year & re uniting with my “new” old mamas!

Take care~ Elizabeth

www.twogreenolivetrees.etsy.com

Pine Needle Baskets

2008-03-27T07:03:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone!! My name is Elaine Ussery, and I make pine needle baskets. I first discovered this craft while traveling in Florida, and then I started to see the baskets in other places. The first person that I came upon that was creating these baskets was Jeanne. Jeanne was drying some pine needles on a picnic table, and being the nosy person I am, I had to ask "What are you doing?" Then she told me about the basket making and showed me some of her creations. Wow! I was hooked! She was kind enough to show me the basics, and then I took a few classes on the how to's. I decided to get involved in some of the craft shows, as my hobby got out of control. When I do get into a craft show, I demonstrate how I make them. Most people have not seen them before, and I found out if I didn't demonstrate, they didn't believe that they were made from pine needles! Come see my creations!

Colorful Spanish tees from Los Pollitos Dicen (The Little Chicks Say)

2008-03-26T20:36:00.005-05:00

Happy Spring, all. We are preparing for the best Mamamade show ever and we're bringing with us lots of colorful fabulousness such as tank tops, and new baby bibs and hats -- all 100% cotton and made in the USA.

Come shop the new designs and find a sweet sale in the bargain bin.

-- Carrie

Participant -The Creative JAR - Jodi Reeves

2008-03-26T10:29:00.008-05:00

Being creative, but especially painting, has been part of my life since childhood. I get the creative gene mostly from my mother’s side. I am a self-taught creator. Though I have always made creative things I did not began creating commissioned paintings until 2003, and did not bring my work to the public in November 2005 at the TN Fair Grounds Flea Market. In the spring of 2006, I began showing with Nashville’s Untitled Artists’ Group. I was invited to be on the board of Untitled in 2007. Also in 2007 I co-created CRAFT - a creative community which I also coordinate. I am involved in other creative groups in Nashville such as Plowhaus Artists' Cooperative, Nashville Craft Mafia and Artsy Mama's. I created my company The Creative JAR but is also involved in many other business ventures such as Par Deux Meres a collaborative project with Kim Smith of White Cottage Design, JAM in a JAR Apparel as the designer, Artsi Moments as the co-owner and creative director of Clint the Black Cat.

I was born and raised in International Falls, MN. It is a remote town in northern Minnesota on the Canadian border. My family moved to my husband's home state of Tennessee in 1994. I have worked in Nashville’s printing industry since 1995 and worked her way up the ranks as an Advertising Account Manager of many nationally known magazines. Besides being heavily involved with the growing art scene in Nashville, I also do freelance graphic arts and design mostly for print production. I reside with my husband and three girls near J. Percy Priest Lake, where they enjoy spending time outdoors, fishing and swimming.

Creating is an important part of my "me" time. It is a way for me to experience a creative life and a tool for maintaining my sanity. Acrylic is my favorite medium on wood or canvas. My favorite tool besides my paintbrush is sandpaper. I like to paint in many styles and have enjoyed experimenting with a wide range of art and craft media. I use a lot of natural elements, found materials and text in my work. My pieces are mostly fun and whimsical, but some of my works have a more serious side. I continue to try new styles and medias, and learn more every day. My current work explores the themes of the roles and emotions of woman, nature and words. A new project of mine is The Land of Neevin which is a story told via softies, they have their own blog.

We're excited to be Mamas!

2008-03-25T21:48:00.003-05:00

Limited Edition KnitOwl toys at MamaMade

2008-03-25T15:12:00.003-05:00

Alien Monster Doll
handmade baby toys

I will be making some 'limited edition' versions of popular KnitOwl toys to have available at MamaMade. These fun aliens and rabbits in Michael Miller fabrics are part of the Special Editions. There is also one of each type to be available in the online store, with the rest sold at the show or raffled off afterwards in contests on our blog.

Playtime Rabbit
handmade baby toys

Creative Minds Signature Designs

2008-03-25T15:02:00.007-05:00

The Creative Minds Signature Designs team is a creative collaboration of artistry and the home life that we so value. We want to enrich our children's lives as well as pursue a business that keeps us close to home. We want to model for our families that life is a series of beautiful creations that with time and effort can be made into anything you can dream. We have a business that doesn’t compromise our priorities but gives us a tremendous outlet to offer something that defines us as more than parents and teachers to our children.

We create fabric art that consists of painted or fabric wrapped custom framework and includes hand cut and hand stitched appliqués as well as ribbon, wood and beaded embellishments. We also have acrylic and mixed media artwork that is equally unique as all of our work is one of a kind. We love to personalize and customize art for individual spaces.

From Tisra: treebranchONE

2008-03-25T14:08:00.004-05:00

Linoleum block prints (linocuts) are similar in concept to a stamp, in that they are relief prints. I hand cut my artwork on natural linoleum, which is a thin, carve-able layer of cork and linseed oil with a burlap backing. After the cutting and carving is done, the image is inked with a brayer and transfered to paper. I prefer the old-fashioned method of burnishing with a wooden spoon, and do not use a printing press. This allows me to be more hands on with my work, and results in subtle differences in each print- making them each unique! For this reason, linocut prints are each considered original art. All of my linoleum block prints are signed, dated, and numbered. The numbering allows you to see which print, out of an edition that you have (ex. 1/30). The smaller the edition, the rarer the piece. So far, I have kept all of my linoleum block prints in editions of 30 or less, and my most favorite I tend to print even less of, like my "Mother and Child" print (now sold out) that was an edition of only 10.

This linocut, titled "treebranchONE", is a recent carving and will be available for sale at Mamamade Market.

Babybearshop is excited to participate in the Spring Mamamade!

2008-03-25T13:58:00.004-05:00

We will be there with our TRULY organic and natural skin care products! Can't wait to see you there.

Three Pine Design- Ashley Griner

2008-03-17T12:40:00.006-05:00

My name is Ashley Griner and I am the oldest sister of Three Pine Design. I am a mother of four awesome kids and am blessed to stay home with them. They bring me such joy everyday and keep the Griner family life very busy.

My sisters and I started making baby products late last year and are enjoying the creative as well as the business aspects of it. We started an Etsy shop (www.threepinedesign.etsy.com) and also have sold product to two baby boutiques in the Knoxville, TN area. The Mamamade Market will be our first venue like this and we are really excited about it. Our products include stationary, baby blankets, burp cloths, bibs, hair bows, ribbon bow holders, party hats, etc.

When I have free time, after busy family life and Three Pine Design, I enjoy musical theater, being involved with my church, and spending time with my husband and family.

I am looking forward to sharing our products with the many people we will meet through this Mamamade Market opportunity. I have seen some of the other contributors products and am really impressed! I look forward to meeting you all!

Polka Dot Baby blanket

Pretty Paisley Baby blanket

Ribbon bow hangers

Happy Birthday Party Hat!

Baby bib for the hip baby!

Participant Bio: Samantha Harris

2008-03-14T20:16:00.012-05:00

My name is Samantha Harris and I am the youngest of the three sisters in Three Pine Design. I live in Clinton, TN. I grew up in Palmetto, GA in a fun and creative family. I have always had a desire to create! I am a new mother of a baby girl named Kaori! My husband and I are headed to Tokyo, Japan in 11 days to pick her up and bring her home! You will all get to meet her the day of the festival!

My passion is musical theatre, I have a degree in musical theatre and a minor in dance. I love watching it, talking about it, creating it and performing it! My sisters and I decided to start creating baby products at the end of 2007 and we have been successful in selling some of our products to local stores around Knoxville. I will let my sisters tell about their individual products that they have made. I make stationary, head wreaths and paintings. You will see all of the pictured items at the Fair. You can access our etsy site by clicking on the title of my post! (Participant Bio: Samantha Harris) It will take you straight to our products. All of the items posted below are note cards that come in sets of eight. Some are blank and some include messages.

Participant Bio: Marie Lamb

2008-03-14T15:35:00.005-05:00

I'm Marie Lamb of KnitOwl toys, and this is Esmerelda MonaLisa. We live in Hollow Rock, Tennessee. Esme is four months old and our greatest work of art. Daddy does computers and networking. I used to be a programmer as well, but now we run a little online electronics shop and I design and make toys. Toys are my way of making art that will be used and loved for years to come.

Besides Esme and her Daddy, my greatest joy is taking an idea and some materials and making it real. Whether it be a small handheld baby toy, or a two foot dragon, I delight in the process of 2D pattern piece to 3D object. Daddy gives Esme lots of extra cuddle-time, picks up materials and sometimes thinks up new types of toys. Esme helps out with the product testing and has really given me insight into what young babies like in a toy. Bright high-contrast colors, chewability and arms and legs that put up with a lot of yanking are very important when working for babies and toddlers!

Esme and her Mousebear
She's really wondering why we're all outside and
Daddy has that camera thing again...

All of my toy patterns are handcrafted originals that I can do up in custom colors and features. I do entirely custom toys for some customers, creating the pattern from their ideas and fabric suggestions. Custom work usually takes a week to two months.

We're really excited about MamaMade! I'm very thankful to be invited and will be happy to meet some other mommies from this area of the country and see what crafts they are bringing!

Click below to see some of our toys (new window)

Come see us at our KnitOwl blog, where Esme will give a lot more smiles ;) We also sell our toys on Etsy at mariemeyer.etsy.com.

Participant Bio: Freshie & Zero

2008-03-14T14:05:00.009-05:00

Hi there! My name is "Freshie" (a.k.a. Beth) and I make a line of jewelry called Freshie & Zero. Zero is my Jack Russel Terrier. I am an "honorary" mama.

Freshie

Zero

I was born and raised in Nashville, TN and I am so happy to still be living in this area! I have been making jewelry full time now for two years. I strive to create pieces that are pretty, modern, and classic by using simple geometric shapes. Each piece is handcrafted using a hammer and sterling silver or gold-filled wire and the end result is a mix of delicate sophistication and irregular organic beauty. Occasionally I add touches of semi-precious gemstones or pearls, and have recently added elements of delicate and edgy wire wrapping. Prices range from $18 earrings to $112 lariats, but the average price is around $40-$60.

All of the above & more will be at the Mamamade show! Please visit my website or my blog to learn more about my jewelry & my crafty life!

xoxo,
Freshie

Participant Bio: Tisra Fadely

2008-03-14T14:03:00.006-05:00

I have been married for nearly ten years now, and am Mommy to three children: Grant (7 1/2), Dean (5), and Lael (3). We are currently a year into the process of adopting our fourth child and should be matched with an infant girl from Taiwan in the coming months.

So, these are obviously some pretty busy years for me- but they are also some of the most creative years I've ever lived!

I was raised in Southern California and had a super-artistic mother. She did pottery, jewelry, leather working, painting, stained glass, drawing, and glass blowing. Was there any choice but for at least a little of that to rub off on me?! :-) (Incidentally, my dad can play the saxophone by ear, and is a great gardener but I got none of that!) As a young child, I drew constantly and played with craft stuff all the time. Academics took over as I hit middle school and high school and I spent less and less time feeding the creative side within me.

But, a funny thing happened when I started staying home to raise my own children- that creative spirit wiggled it's way out again. I thank God often that He allowed me to rediscover that part of myself. I am forever changed.

Just like my mother, I'm a "dabbler". A little of this. A little of that. I work in linoleum block print, knitting, sewing, painting, and drawing. At this season's Mamamade Market, I will have available framed and unframed art, artistic photography, and blank art cards. My Etsy shop is here.

Official Invite

2008-03-14T10:20:00.004-05:00

2008-02-12T12:14:00.000-06:00

Announcement!

I will be out of office from March 1- March 12. If your Mamamade participant application is postmarked by March 1st, you should hear about your acceptance by March 13th. Sorry for the lag, but my personal schedule will have me putting mail on hold for a short time, and then catching up on the processing. If more applicants come in than the number of booths, I will give preference to existing Mamas (those who have participated in past Mamamade Markets), followed by those with the earlier postmark.

All that said, if I get your application in this week or next, I'll be able to let you know immediately.

Thanks for your understanding,

Tisra Fadely

Spring 2008 Mamamade Market organizer

2008-02-08T14:06:00.006-06:00

Mamamade Market 2008 - Event Details!

For the first time, we are having a SPRING Mamamade Market and we would love to see you there! The weather will be gorgeous, and the event will be outdoors under a covered canopy at an amazing location, Lillie Belle's teahouse in Franklin, TN. Each show just gets better and better! We have new participants in addition to the wonderful Mamas who have had booths in the past. Lots of inspiring talent and plenty of wonderful goods to purchase for yourself, your children, and your favorite people: jewelry, artwork, handbags, baskets, clothing, stationery, baby and children's accessories, bath and body products, and things for the home. You might even find a mom-made gift for your Mom, as Mother's Day is coming soon!

And, don't forget to bring the whole family! The city of Franklin will be having their Franklin Main Street Festival the very same day, just one block over. The town will be bustling with music, activities, food, and other vendors. In fact, our very own Lillie Belle's will be serving up some amazing BBQ and other goodies that day, too!

We look forward to seeing you, and thank you for supporting the handmade products of local Mamas!

DATE: April 26, 2008

TIME: 9am-2pm

LOCATION: Lillie Belle's Tea House - Franklin

2008-02-05T19:21:00.001-06:00

Call for Participation, Spring 2008 Mamamade Market

************Edited 03/14/2008- all of the participant spots are full, thank you for your interest!***********

Mamamade, a collective of artist mothers and honorary mamas, is looking for artists to participate in our third show April 26.

If you are a creative crafter looking to sell your products, expand your business, and have fun, we want to hear from you.

Mamamade values innovative design, handmade and high quality made by mothers. We’re looking for all kinds of art, from canvas to jewelry to clothing to paper and for all kinds of people, young and young-at-heart.

Our fourth annual show will be held Saturday April 26 in the covered back garden and courtyard at Lillie Belle’s tea house in Franklin (pictured above). The date coincides with the annual Franklin Main Street Festival, which draws 50,000- 100,000 people.

To be considered for participation please send contact information, product photos, product description and a personal Web page link -- if you have one -- to tisra AT fadely DOT net (remove spaces and convert capitalized words to their appropriate symbols). Prospective vendors are selected by a Mamamade committee. Once accepted, you will receive an application form and a more detailed event informations sheet. There is a small booth fee to participate. $60, if applications are postmarked before March 1, 2008. $75, if postmarked after.

We look forward to hearing from you,

The Mamas

2008-01-22T08:57:00.000-06:00

Stay Tuned!

Plans are being made for the first ever SPRING Mamamade Market. Tentative date is April 26, 2008 and will be firmed up this week, along with location. If you are interested in participating as a Mama, leave a comment with your e-mail address and we'll make sure you get the appropriate details. If you're planning on attending, you'll want to save the date!

2007-11-19T09:53:00.001-06:00

Photos from the event:

2007-11-18T21:43:00.000-06:00

What a great day! Thanks to everyone who came to the sale. Lots of fun was had by all and the company was fabulous!

We will be announcing the winner of the Goodie Basket soon! Check back for details!!

2007-11-16T22:41:00.000-06:00

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!

Mamamade 2007 Is HERE!

Come join us at New Song Christian Fellowship - Woodbine - Close to the Nashville Zoo (and even closer to Krispy Kreme :o)!

Date and Time: Saturday, November 17, 2007 from 9am- 2pm

Location: New Song Christian Fellowship, Woodbine (in the coffeehouse basement)

Address: 2949 Nolensville Pike, Nashville TN 37211

Contact: http://mamamade.biz/, Chelle's e-mail: chellebaldwin AT comcast DOT net, or by cell: 615-579-0452

As a way of giving back to the community, the Mamamade event will be equipped with bins to receive non-perishables for the Second Harvest Food Bank that operates out of New Song Woodbine. Consider bringing an item or two with you when you come to shop; you'll be helping local families in need.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

2007-11-16T18:56:00.001-06:00

Getting Ready!!

Several of us spent some time this evening at the coffee house getting things set up and ready for the morning!

Can't wait to see you all there!!!

Time & Location Reminder:

Date and Time: Saturday, November 17, 2007 from 9am- 2pm

Location: New Song Christian Fellowship, Woodbine (in the coffeehouse basement)

Address: 2949 Nolensville Pike, Nashville TN 37211

Contact: http://mamamade.biz/, Chelle's e-mail: chellebaldwin AT comcast DOT net, or by cell: 615-579-0452

As a way of giving back to the community, the Mamamade event will be equipped with bins to receive non-perishables for the Second Harvest Food Bank that operates out of New Song Woodbine. Consider bringing an item or two with you when you come to shop; you'll be helping local families in need.

2007-11-16T13:59:00.001-06:00

Elizabeth's Bio

My name is Elizabeth Hutchison. I am a native Nashvillian, homeschooling mother to four wonderful boys, and married to my best friend, Ben for almost ten years. I have a "vintage inspired baby items" business called two green olive trees.

I hand make baby bibs, burp cloths, diaper sacks, blankets, and other baby accessories from top of the line, designer fabrics. I also have a series of "recycled" baby accessories which are made from the ever so abundant, articles of clothing that would otherwise end up in our landfills. I am excited about this new creative phase of my life! You can check out www.twogreenolivetrees.etsy.com for up and coming items.

2007-11-15T10:57:00.000-06:00

Window Shopping

Thought I'd put a few photos here of items that will be available this weekend!

Quite a neat variety of things!

2007-11-15T07:31:00.001-06:00

From Julie:

This week has been challenging to say the least. I have had a raging head cold that has involved snot galore, coughing, sore throat, you name it. Being a mama and being sick is one thing. Being a mama with a cold with 2 children who have colds takes it to a whole 'nother level. Add in there that I have basically waited until this week to get all my stuff together for the mamamade show PLUS this month and next are my busiest of the year at my i-get-a-paycheck-for-this job and well... It's been a teensy weensy bit chaotic here at Clark Central. But hey! I am a mama and that means I can do things under pretty chaotic circumstances (with lots of help from my wonderful husband and of course by the grace of God!) Thankfully, I am on the mend and other than this horrendous cold sore that has shown up ON MY NOSE (ick!) I should be 100% by the show.

So all that to say this: I will have at least one of each version of my "chore charts" available at the show on Saturday (Click the picture below to see all available themes) as well as CD's of note cards. I spent the better part of last night printing the charts and I have to say, I'm pretty thrilled with the results! We have been using our chart here for months now and it really is a great motivator. I have made several for friends here in my neighborhood and for some other mama friends and the feedback I am getting is very positive. The ones I will have Saturday will not be personalized but will be great gifts nonetheless. Personalized ones will be available for $15 *if* your order is placed at mamamade. Personalization includes: Your child's picture incorporated into the chart (you'll have to e-mail me a high resolution digital image) and your choice of 4 of the chore tiles. (There are 28 tiles for each chart. 24 of them include common household tasks. The last 4 can be left blank or you can tell me up to 4 that you want specific to your child.)

Also available is a "Love Chores" chart for your significant other. It comes with blank tiles that you can fill in yourself with a sharpie. This would be a fun Wedding Shower gift. You can write things on there like "Give me a back rub" - It's the ultimate "honey-do" list!

Finally - I will also have sample designs of my Birth Announcements and Christmas Cards and will be ready to take your orders for custom designs.

Only 2 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-15T00:46:00.001-06:00

Grab you hats and pull up your britches people and get ready for the big event!! Can you believe it starts in 56 hours and 15 minutes?!?! I have been living in a cloud of dust trying to get all the cutting boards done for the show. There have been some shall we say "mechanical difficulties" along the way. As you know my router switch bit the dust a while back. That was actually the second thing to break on me (my sewing machine went on strike weeks ago) and as I was soon to discover not the last. I had one of my orbital sanders literally go up in smoke and then my drill press decided that I had drilled one too many holes and went KER-PLUNK! Thankfully it did that just as I was finishing up so I only had to hand drill a few boards. I ended up with 3 different sizes of boards. The biggi, mini and skinni. Here they are in walnut.
I have all the sizes in three different woods. Walnut, Cherry and Mahogany. The maple on the skinni and mini is curly maple. On the biggi it's rock maple. Here is a pic of the three different woods.

I spent my nights whirring away at the sewing machine making a bunch of Placemat-a-doodle-do's. I have 4 colors available this year. They are vinyl so cleaning them up after a meal is a breeze with a wet wipe or washcloth. Make your outings with your kids easier and pick up one for them. Heck for that matter make your outings with the kids more fun for the rest of the people in the restaurant and pick one up for them.

So it's quarter to one in the morning and I have to go make lunch for my oldest daughter for school tomorrow. As excited as I am about the show I must admit I am looking forward to some earlier bedtimes starting Saturday night! ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ......

2007-11-14T09:09:00.000-06:00

Mamamade.biz featured in the Tennessean today!

The Tennessean has done a story about our upcoming open house this Saturday! If you've just surfed in from the Tennessean, welcome!

See you on Saturday!

2007-11-12T20:26:00.001-06:00

Number of days to MAMAMADE 2007: 5

Number of projects on my plate: O, Thousands!

Number of minutes spent sewing this week: 218 (approx.)

Number of minutes spent exercising: 405 (EXACTLY)

Christmas Gifts purchased: 2

People to buy gifts for: O, Thousands!

MAMAMade Items:

LUNCH TOTES! Finished: 5

These lunch totes are insulated, oh so pretty and born out of necessity! I must pack in my own food everyday to work, lest I be tempted by the vending machine Sirens. And those puny lunch bags gross me out with their unwashable plastic and only enough space for a couple sticks 'o celery and a Capri Sun. So I made myself a big ole bag that I can throw in the wash and get rid of that fat-free dressing spilled last Tuesday.

BOOKIES! finished: 20

Wire wreaths! Finished: 2 (and hopefully more to come, depending on your reaction!)

Bibs! Finished: 12

On The Go Wallets! Finished: 6

Assorted totes, cd boxes, etc! O, Thousands

Come by and see us! We've all been busy whipping up some beauties!

2007-11-12T19:18:00.000-06:00

From Carrie

Making their debut at Mamamade, our holiday offerings: "Despertador,'' Spanish for "Alarm Clock'' and "Ni Un Pio!'' or "Not a Peep,'' our version of "See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil" and otherwise known as the thing my Abuela said most commonly to her noisy grandchildren: "No quiero oir ni un pio!'' The perfect toddler tee!

These funny Spanish T-shirts and onesies will each include a card with the lyrics to Los Pollitos Dicen, the traditional lullaby we take our name from.

Despertador is available in 0 to 6 months and 6 to 12 months; Ni Un Pio is available in 2T and 4T. Both are 100% cotton and made in the U.S.A.

We also will have some closeout baby onesies, bibs and adult T-shirts with fun Spanish sayings and designs such as this beautiful tropical bird, the Cuban Tocororo:

2007-11-12T16:21:00.000-06:00

From Julie:

You know, the neat thing about designing digital products is that I can give away things for free easily just by uploading them to the 'net!

I thought I'd put up some samples of my note cards (available at open house on CD) for our blog readers to experiment with!

I'm giving blog readers samples of:

CHRISTMAS TREAT COVERS (simply cut, fold and put over a lollipop. Then staple or secure with a ribbon send them to school with your child!)
A sheet of 2 Christmas "Print and Go" Cards
1 Assemble yourself Christmas Card
1 Coordinating Envelope

The links above will take you to full size images. All you have to do is save the full size images to your computer and then print and play!

Enjoy!

2007-11-12T15:52:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to show a few of the holiday pillows I've worked up. I'm looking forward to Saturday Gals!!

~jenni

2007-11-10T06:22:00.001-06:00

Hi there! It's Angel from Babybearshop. I want to introduce you to some cute and cuddly friends we'll have available at the Mamamade Event. Our "Best Friends" doll is on the back row of the photo, they are made from recycled vintage fabric and stuffed with 100% cotton. At 18 inches tall they make great companions and can even be a stand in for a pillow in the car or out of town! In the front row are our 6.5 inch tall fairies, they are made of 100% cotton and stuffed with organic fill. Both items are handmade in the USA, sourced from small craft businesses. They can't wait to meet you!

To see a larger image, just click on the photo!

2007-11-09T14:28:00.000-06:00

FROM TISRA:

Just the perfect thing for getting in the holiday mood: Christmas tree ornaments!

These are completely hand-sewn coffee cup ornaments that capture the cozy warm feeling we get as the air is getting chilly and we're waiting for St. Nick. Made of felt, stuffed, and embroidered with a creamy swirl, these colorful cups will be perfect on the tree, hanging in a wreath, or dangled from a lamp to cheer up your workspace. Each ornament will be available at the Mamamade sale for $10, and comes with a modern ball chain loop for hanging, which is easily replaced by a more traditional length of ribbon, should you desire.

2007-11-08T21:12:00.000-06:00

From Julie:

I took some time this evening to put together some of the cards that will be available on the CD that I will have for sale at mamamade.

I had so much fun making them and can totally see this being a great thing to have on hand - I'm so excited about offering it at open house!

The CD will have a collection of 8 sets of cards - Within each set there are 4 printable cards with 2 different designs. Two of the cards are print-and-go and two are assemble yourself for a layered 3-D effect. Each set also includes 2 coordinating envelopes that you can print, fold, and glue (I use scotch tape).

I embellished the note cards with things I have laying around the house - some ribbon, a few random scrapbook brads and flowers, and even a few leaves from the back yard. All you need is a printer, some cardstock, scissors & some adhesive (glue or a glue stick, tape, or other adhesive like like zots). Optionally, you can add some embellishments like the ones I mentioned above.

My 4 year old has not mastered cutting things within the lines but she loves to play with her craft scissors. I print an extra set of cards and she cuts and glues right along with me.

The great thing about having these in digital form is that you can use them over and over again!

There are 2 Christmas Themed sets, 1 Patriotic Set, a Valentine Themed Set, a Sweet Pink and Blue set (perfect for baby announcements or thank you notes), a party themed set perfect for birthday invites or thank yous, and 2 other sets in shades of brown and pink.

Also included on the CD are bonus Lollipop Treat Covers for Valentine, Birthday and Christmas Party days and Mini Christmas Gift Card tags.

Lots of Fun!!!

2007-11-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

Mamamade has been featured in Whip Up today!

If you've visited our site via Whip Up, get acquainted with our group by reading the participant bios (links to the left), and clicking on the individual site links of The Mamas. Lots of talent, and passion- you are sure to be inspired. The complete event details are here.

We'll see you in Nashville on November 17th!

2007-11-05T16:35:00.000-06:00

FROM TISRA:

Today I worked on hand-printing some linoleum block print cards (lino cards) from my Speech Bubble line. I love these cards and use them myself. Hand carved from natural linoleum, the artwork is then inked up with a brayer and printed. Some people use printing presses, but I hand print them by rubbing on the back of the print with a wooden spoon. I like this hands-on approach and the slightly rustic look that can be achieved this way. Each print is an original, unique piece of art. This particular line of is so fun to use! The silly cards feature a character with an empty speech bubble- write in anything you want! "Congratulations!", "Thank You", "Happy Gum Chewing Day!"... you name it.

Every white or ivory card is roughly 4x6" and comes with a matching envelope. At Mamamade, I'll have all my cards available individually, but they may be purchased in multiples for a a better price- you pick and choose (like going to one of those bulk bin candy places- you only grab what you want). And whether you choose one or 10, I'll have plastic sleeves on hand to protect your artwork, and package them nicely.

2007-11-03T15:02:00.001-05:00

Greetings from Babybearshop! It's finally starting to feel like Fall around here, which can only mean one thing: the holidays are getting closer every day! I can't wait to meet those of you that are coming to our Mamamade Event on November 17th.

Today I want to share some information about our signature product: Cheeky Baby Butter.

Let's start with the ingredients: Shea Butter, Beeswax, Sunflower Oil, Rosehip Oil, Calendula Flower Oil, Olive Oil, Essential oils of lavender, roman chamomile and red mandarin, and Non-GMO vitamin E.

Notice anything missing? Maybe the unpronounceable chemicals and ingredients you find on the back of your average baby lotion? Our products are truly organic and truly natural unlike many of the baby products out there that make that claim purely for marketing purposes!

This nutrient rich hydrating creme is great for massage, dry skin, eczema, scars and stretch marks. It is 99.9% organic, 100% natural and has 100% plant derived ingredients with NO parabens, pthalates or synthetic fragrance.

It is packaged in a recyclable brown glass jar and comes in two sizes: 1.7 oz. and 4 oz.

Check back here for more information about pricing as the sale gets closer!

2007-11-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

FROM TISRA:

I have quite the passion for stationery. As a young girl, having family and friends spread across towns, cities, and oceans, I wrote and received a lot of letters. The handwritten word is so personal. It warms my heart to see the slant of a friend's cursive or the haste in which they've crossed their "t". And in a day when e-mail and telephone communication is speedier, knowing that someone took more time to drop a note in the mail affirms the value of that friendship. In fact, I will say that it is my dearest friends that I am able to close my eyes and visualize their individual handwriting. The fonts of my friends.

At Mamamade this year, in addition to the line of hand printed lino cards, I will be offering blank cards with my photography on the front. Each are high quality prints, attached with black photo corners, and signed by me.

2007-11-01T08:49:00.000-05:00

From Julie: 16 days?

Well - Guess where I've been lately? IN DENIAL! I haven't done ONE THING (other than get this website together!) to prepare for mamamade! I am setting some time aside this weekend to get the responsibility charts printed off and I think I am also going to offer a "make it yourself note card kit" - This will be a CD of digital files with everything you need (except the scissors and glue) to make your own note cards - Even the envelopes! I think this will be a great gift for moms to give to daughters and maybe even as a project that mamas and their kids can do together. The CD will contain 7 "kits" and there will be samples of assembled cards at mamamade. I might even bring some unassembled ones to put together at the table to show folks how easy (AND FUN!) it is!

2007-10-26T08:44:00.001-05:00

Elizabeth Behan's Bio:

Elizabeth's had more creativity in her since she was little than she ever knew what to do with. Her youngest creative memory is making doll
clothes out of toilet paper. After many years of not paying attention in school (due to creative projects floating around her head) she attended East Tennessee State University and studied fiber arts. This gave her a definition of what she had been all those years: an artist.

After years of traveling and selling different wares, she settled down to become a wife and mother of two children. Adi is 10 and Teagen is 5. With all the clothes, cakes, costumes and gifts that come with children, she spent the the next few years creating an exciting atmosphere for her children - including parties where the house was totally transformed into another place (ie. Narnia) and tons of children had full costumes to become the characters in the books! Her
latest creative passion is making jewelry from broken china.

A friend asking her to do something "creative " with her collection of broken china collected from the ocean created a love, in Elizabeth, for sea china. A trip to New England where she and her husband found as much sea china as her friend had found in 10 years cemented the dream as one God had for her, so she was off and running! Upon looking around at the uneven stacks of china she had inherited another idea was born. Using another talent she had developed over the years, breaking dishes, she decided to add a line of jewelry made from broken antique china. This naturally grew into the china a new bride picks out being purchased and broken and made into gifts for the wedding party.

Her work can be seen at www.hishandsdesign.com.

Home parties, art shows and weddings showcase these beautiful creations. Past years' Mamamade shows have been an important step in encouraging the blending of mothering and pursuing her own business. It showed her that the season of being a mother to little ones didn't have to be over, or overtaken for a passionate home business to grow. She was also so excited to meet other moms who live in the same creative place she does.

2007-10-24T07:52:00.000-05:00

Happy news--my product list for MamaMade is getting longer! My love of limited production work has kicked into high gear with these little notebooks. They're inspired by How About Orange--that girl is such a genious. Simple, lovely ideas nearly everyday!
I love to have a little notebook with me at all times--and let's face it, the insides of my purse are serious battle ground. It's nice to not carry around my greatest handmade journal and let it get so beat up.

I decided to put fabric on mine. They're 4x5 inches and I used Wunder Under to attach some of my favorite prints. I know they could get a lot more detailed, but I'd like to keep them simple, and the price point low.

I'll be selling them at the Mamamade Openhouse on November 17th. And I'm going to send some to my cousin in St. Louis for a show she and her husband are participating in there.

2007-10-23T09:09:00.000-05:00

FROM FRESHIE:

Hello. I am Beth Porter Lawrence, a.k.a. "Freshie". Zero is my Jack Russell.

I began making jewelry when I was ten years old. At that time, I molded friendly plastic into earrings and sold them up and down my street out of my pink & purple Caboodle, and wholesaled them to my first store in downtown Franklin, Tennessee. I believe my going price was around $3-$5 which probably didn't cover my expenses, but what did I care - I was making real money!

After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Belmont University where my focus was photography and painting, I moved from Nashville to Atlanta. I worked in a craft gallery there and rediscovered my love for making jewelry, and I began stringing beads and recycling vintage components under the name "Freshie Designs". I sold my jewelry in three stores in Atlanta until I moved back to Nashville and put my jewelry on hold while I tried a career in sales for a couple of years. However, this intense job left no room for creativity, so I resigned from my position and launched Freshie & Zero after a couple of years of carefully developing my own unique style.

Simple, modern, and elegant are all words I hear used to describe my jewelry. I start out with a piece of sterling silver or gold filled wire which I shape into a circle, square, or some other little form. I then take it to my anvil and hammer it out while purposefully leaving the hammer marks for a distinct look. Often I add finishing asymmetrical touches of gemstones or freshwater pearls, resulting in a dainty and delicate style.

2007-10-23T08:55:00.000-05:00

From Carrie:

Dear friends, just a note to say Los Pollitos Dicen (The Little Chicks Say) will be offering some new designs and holiday savings specials for Mamamade shoppers.

Watch this space for design previews!

2007-10-23T02:07:00.001-05:00

FROM PAIGE

After today's Roadway arrival, the note I sent along to Juliana Forbes: mentor, coworker, Mothers Acting Up co-founder and Midwife Maven to the Annual MAU Handbook:

My truckload of 20 boxes of 2008 MAU Handbooks has just arrived in the rain… they now sit on my front porch, save for the one box I brought into the house and ripped into immediately to take a look. And I’m just BAWLING…. THEY. ARE. SO. BEAUTIFUL. I’d love to call and tell you so, but I don’t think I can speak for being a blubbering mess of gladness.

Love and lots of it.

XX

Paige

(I have always been of the sensitive persuasion, but since having become pregnant with my son, and then these two years after his birth, even, I am just a walking jangle of happy-sad-beautiful-crazy human-ness, both tender and tough, with a penchant both for laughing and weeping uncontrollably. The already wonky world goes a bit madder in motherhood, I find.)

2007-10-23T01:15:00.000-05:00

FROM PAIGE

Paige La Grone Babcock AKA Ms. Booty Homemaker is a writer and communitarian engaged in the Apron-string Revolution where peace begins at home. Her return to the pink collar world after a year tending hearth and raising baby is as public Joy Warrior and work-at-home-mama. Outreach coordinator and community organizer for the exuberant movement Mothers Acting Up, Paige puts to work her writing, teaching and theatre background crafting community. She hosts a schedule of playgroups and potluck socials & salons, and makes regular visits (child on hip) to the offices of her state and local elected officials advocating for MAU's Mother Agenda. Paige organized Nashville's 1st and 2nd Annual Mother's Day Peace Parade and has developed the workshop MAU Now: the Joy of Activism, a template for helping far-flung MAU mavens and other community leaders share adapted versions of the recipe in their own home communities. Paige also answers to Wife and Mommy, mixing it up with activism, art and domestic anarchy. She is a (slightly lapsed) voracious reader, messy gardener and a joyful cook / chowhound. She lives in a cozy urban cottage in East Nashville with her Beloved Mister, their curly headed toddler Ziggy, and rescue cats and dog. She loves them all wildly and with abandon, and dreams of raising chickens in the country.
A portrait in the 2007 Mothers Acting Up Handbook & Engagement Calendar, Paige will be selling this year's model at her second Mamamade, along with homespun aprons and Nashville MAU tees, all for the benefit of MAU, which exists as a national non- profit & non-partisan mother-led, mother-fed movement of mothers (and others) to passionately and publicly advocate for the world's children (including the ones right here in Nashville). One of Nashville MAU's most joyful moments this year was taking the lead in helping the Nashville Public Library and its stellar Main Branch children's programming salvage its entire proposed budget cut from Metro Government's chopping block. Paige and her family are HUGE fans of books and public libraries in general and of the Professor, Mary Mary, and Library Pete in particular.
Paige is available to facilitate discussion, lead workshops and speak about MAU, mother activism and raising socially conscious children in a changing culture at your home gathering, church or knitting group or national conference. She can be contacted at paige at mothersactingup dot org.

2007-10-21T19:31:00.000-05:00

The story of Jenni Hopkins...

Simply put, I am a West Virginia girl livin' in Tennessee, with my hilarious husband and two baby boys, and I love to try to make the world just a little more beautiful than I found it.
I grew up in Charleston, West Virginia and found both my love of art and the love of my life there. I have attempted most kinds of creative ventures, from macrame to collage, and have found that paint and a sewing machine are my favorite tools of expression.
Formally, I studied television production and costume design for theatre at the University of Kentucky and went on to do some graduate work in costume design at the University of Texas and in fashion design at Parsons in NYC.
After the birth of my son, Wyatt, we moved to New Orleans, the place where Nate and I were married 5 years before, and lived there only 3 months before hurricane Katrina hit. With everything turned upside down, I found myself craving simplicity and those things that are quintessential to the feelings of home. Beauty, comfort, personal style, the little things that make it well... home. So I started embroidering and making pillows and painting art for my sister and my friends. I found such peace and satisfaction in doing this I wanted to do it full time. I would be honored to make something beautiful for your home!

2007-10-21T15:29:00.000-05:00

Hisae Shiratori and Mari Beth Sartain came up with their business idea when they both were pregnant and searching high and low for baby kimono. Baby kimono are the "onesies" of Japan favored by mothers because they wrap around the baby instead of going over the head, and because the seams and tags are on the outside so not to irritate the baby's delicate skin. Hisae, who was born and raised in Japan, and Mari Beth, who spent several years living in Japan, both recognized the functionality and the beauty of the baby kimono. With no luck trying to purchase baby kimonos, they decided to make the kimonos themselves. They named their company after the two babies who inspired the kimonos: Tomo&Edie.

Tomo&Edie organic baby kimono and their vintage Japanese silk kimono hair accessories can be found in selected boutiques around the United States. The kimonos are noted for the unusual red and black tag in Japanese and English. The logo Chikyujin Tomo&Edie -- chikyujin (pronounced chee-Q-jeen) is a Japanese word they like to translate as "world member." Literally translated, the character chikyu is "earth" and jin is the character for "man"

They say that their children, Tomo&Edie, remind them daily that they are "world members" so they must do their part to promote peace, protect the environment, educate the children, and be nice.

This concept gets translated into both their organic baby kimonos and their vintage kimono hair accessories. http://www.tomoandedie.com/

2007-10-21T12:53:00.000-05:00

Did any of you hear that high pitch whine today? It was me and my router going full bore. I made some serious sawdust today routing some chair sides for a set that I am working on. I only got through four sides before my year old router said "I am DONE!" The blasted thing won't start. I mean COME ON! it was only 4 sides you wuss. I am so not happy. So off to the repair shop it goes on Monday, after I spank it for being a pain in my rear and slowing down my progress. My hubby took a few shots of me before the router revolt. Here they are.

2007-10-19T15:27:00.002-05:00

This holiday season, give the gift that keeps you kissing! Introducing the "All the Better to Kiss You With" ORGANIC lip balm Kissing Kit for the Holidays.

The kit includes 3 USDA organic certified lip balms (chai mandarin, pepperminty and lavender vanilla) and a handmade peppermint lollipop packaged in a sweet moss green organza polka dot gift bag with a hand-letterpressed tag made from chlorine free, recycled paper.

$1 of every holiday kit goes directly to Healthy Child, Healthy World who are working hard creating healthier environments for our children.

The kit will be available for $19.99 the day of the show!

2007-10-18T10:19:00.000-05:00

** Help Us Spread The Word!

Please feel free to print the flyer and post wherever you can!!!

** Click the image to get it full size and then SAVE IT TO YOUR COMPUTER and then print it from there in order to avoid re-sizing, cutting off parts of the flyer, etc.

Thanks for helping us get the word out!!!

2007-10-16T21:34:00.001-05:00

We're looking forward to November 17th! Just wanted to post some info about our stuff:

Our hair accessories are hand-crafted from beautiful Japanese silk kimono. We love giving new life to beautiful vintage kimono. They come in different styles and look great on big and little girls!

Our organic baby kimono are favored by moms everywhere because they are all organic cotton, have seams on the outside to protect a newborn's delicate skin, and they wrap around a baby instead of going over head-- which also makes for easy access diaper changing. Tomo&Edie organic kimono are all natural unbleached cotton or hand-dyed using the traditional all-natural Japanese dye technique called kusakizome. Check us out at tomoandedie.com

2007-10-15T14:46:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all, it's Jenni. I just wanted to upload a photo of some of the pillows I have worked up, there's more to come!! I'm getting excited for November.

Jenni Hopkins Design

www.jennihopkins.com

2007-10-15T10:21:00.000-05:00

FROM TISRA:

Just a little work preview! :-) I'm carving a lino over the next couple of days. I'm thinking it will be a run of 25 or 30. The inspiration is the beautiful Culinary Institute of America, Greystone in Napa Valley, California where a dear girl friend of mine was married last year (one year ago today, actually). The first print of the series will go to the happy couple as a first anniversary gift (shhhh! don't tell!) And, of course, I will have more prints framed and available at Mamamade.

2007-10-15T09:47:00.000-05:00

From Chelle: The juggling act.

So here I am, I have been a bit wrapped up so to speak. Too many projects and not enough hours in the day. I've been making some placemat-a-doodle-do's but that sort of got sidelined as I needed to get my upstairs ready to become my temporary massage office while we are waiting for David's office building to be completed. I start seeing clients again on Wednesday after a 3 year hiatus. I have also been putting some time in on making a few table sets. The mamamade show is quickly approaching so I spent a few hours woking on our email flyer.

Please click on the photo to view it full size and feel free to print and distribute to help get the word out!!

2007-10-02T09:26:00.000-05:00

FROM TISRA:

Born and raised in Southern California, tisra moved to Tennessee after marrying her best friend nearly 10 years ago. She had always dabbled in art, being the daughter of an artistic mom who painted, sewed and was a ceramic artist. But, her academdic side drew her to science, specifically Biology, and the creative spirit was neglected for a good long while. With the birth of their first child, and the passing of her mother due to breast cancer in 2000, Tisra discovered that her neglected artistic side was a comfort, an outlet, and an undeniable God-given force, that rose to the surface again with little effort. Memories of her mom's instruction in childhood serve as a guide, and paired with the creative urges gained in motherhood: paint flows, the sewing machine whirs, and the knitting needles fly! Tisra's knitting designs have been published online with Knitty.com and chiagu.com. She is the proud mommy to Grant (7), Dean (4.5), and Lael (nearly 3). The profit from any of her items at Mamamade will go toward the adoption of their fourth child (and newest daughter) whom they hope to bring home from Taiwan in 2008.

Available at Mamamade 2007, Tisra hopes to have a selection of framed original art, sewn items, linoleum block printed cards, and fun-printed baby Travel Cot sheets.

She may be contacted at tisra AT fadely DOT net and items may be purchased through her Etsy store: http://www.tisrafadelyoriginals.etsy.com

2007-10-01T14:10:00.000-05:00

From: Angel

BABYBEARSHOP is excited to announce that our Cheeky Baby Butter, Mama Belly Oil , all three flavors of lip balm and our Holiday Kiss Kit will be available at Whole Foods Market in Nashville! The new store opens November 1st in Green Hills.

This new partnership will increase our opportunities to educate consumers about the benefits of using natural and organic skin care--our number one motivation!

2007-10-01T13:58:00.000-05:00

From Carrie:

Hola all...Just a note to say we're putting together our Spanish onesies, T-shirts and bibs for the show.

Also, it looks like Los Pollitos Dicen was a hit at Target.com. Our infant onesies (pictured above) sold out in a day. Visit us at The Red Hot Shop this week, where we are part of an Hispanic Heritage Month promotion.

Thanks,
Carrie

2007-09-25T22:25:00.000-05:00

BETH'S BIO

Hey everyone! I'm super excited to join you again this year. I need to get crankin' on all my new products. The sewing machine is going to be humming!

I'm an Honorary Mama and happy to be surrounded by such talented, smart Mamas! I love to practice many of the domestic arts, but especially sewing and crafts. My specialties are custom
paintings, funky quilting, handmade handbags, and generally things that are fun and pretty. And functional if at all possible.

I'm from Missouri originally, where I spent lots of time doing crafty projects as a kid. My first money making venture was selling friendship bracelets out of my desk in 4th grade. After that venture ended in a trip to the principal's office, I took a business break until starting a small business making jewelry and home goods at the age of 14, going to summer art fairs and selling in a high-end boutique in Columbia, Missouri.

After college and a degree in Graphic Design and Fibers, I now live in Nashville working as a graphic designer and make, sell, and teach all manner of fabric and fun art. From hand-dyed fabrics to semi-traditional quilting, to helping my boyfriend screen print zombies on t-shirts, I really gets around!

My Motto: Make it pretty, make it well.

websites: http://www.bethhowardstudio.com/
http://www.stitchriprepeat.blogspot.com/

2007-09-23T09:33:00.001-05:00

From Angel

BABYBEARSHOP is now planting a tree with every purchase! We have partnered with Trees for the Future, "an agroforestry resource center helping people in developing countries improve their rural livelihoods through the introduction of environmentally sustainable land management projects focused on beneficial tree planting".

At BABYBEARSHOP we are dedicated to environmental stewardship, because we believe that every day is a new chance to make the best choices for our children, their future and the world we live in.

2007-09-18T11:22:00.000-05:00

FROM TISRA:

One Beautiful Dress all ready to go! The design is my own, and the dress is a one off, meaning that no other will be exactly like it. There will be a few other Beautiful Dresses, but certainly not in this exact print mix. Size: 3T-4T. Cotton fabric, fully lined and hand finished, colors of linen, white, and avocado green. Sweet ribbon neckline tie (especially made for squirmy girls!). Great during warmer weather alone, and appropriate with a long sleeve T underneath or with a cardigan for the chilly months.

2007-09-12T14:13:00.000-05:00

From: Angel (product specialist for BABYBEARSHOP)

Once upon a time Diana Stewart, a mother of two living in Nashville founded BABYBEARSHOP, a purely organic skincare line ‘just right’ for mothers, babies, and grown-ups alike who care about their health, the environment and having lusciously soft and healthy skin.

BABYBEARSHOP’s products are 99% organic, have 100% natural ingredients, contain no artificial anything and are free of common allergens. There are no artificial colors or fragrances, no synthetic preservatives, no genetically-modified ingredients, and have absolutely no parabens. Only the safest, highest-quality organic or wild-crafted essential oils are used, and therefore all of the products are safe for children and adults, and are helpful in soothing eczema and other allergy conditions.

Because our commitment to health and well-being extends beyond the skin, BABYBEARSHOP only uses recyclable packaging for our products. We are 100% cruelty-free; never tested on animals. We believe that every day is a new chance to make the best choices for our children, their future and the world we live in.

You can find us locally at Whole Foods, Escape Spa, Turnip Truck, Popo, Pangaea and Shine Salon. Nationally our products are sold at Nordstrom, Spa Nordstrom , Babybearshop .com and Babies R Us.com.

Also look for our ads in Kiwi Magazine and Mothering Magazine.

2007-09-10T14:06:00.001-05:00

CARRIE'S BIO

Meet The Mama Hen: Carrie
Carrie Ferguson Weir created Los Pollitos Dicen (The Little Chicks Say) shortly after her own bilingual baby chick was born. Sold on-line and in retail stores, Los Pollitos Dicen offers colorful and comfortable children’s onesies and tees with Spanish messages in a wooden egg-shaped box – a perfect gift for bilingual children and parents who seek the unique, no matter what their Mother Tongue.

How To Contact Los Pollitos

Please visit the Los Pollitos Dicen website for a look at these hip baby digs. You may also contact Carrie at: mamahen@lospollitosdicen.biz

2007-09-10T13:59:00.001-05:00

CHELLE'S BIO

Meet Forward Thinking Mama: Chelle

Chelle Baldwin has a long history of thinking outside the box. Just ask her parents, they’ll tell you it’s true. Many moons ago she received a BFA degree specializing in furniture design and fabrication. After a 10 plus year hiatus of being a massage therapist, finding Mr. Right and having a few kids she has come back to what she loves, making sawdust and other messes. Let others bore you with the mundane and run of the mill. Chelle’s furniture speaks to the quirkier and lighter side of life, believing that things should be functional as well as enjoyable. She has two extremely diligent product testers in house, literally. They happen to be her daughters but that affiliation doesn’t seem to keep them from letting her know what works and what doesn’t.

How To Contact Outside Z Box
Chelle's in the blogosphere at outsidezbox.blogspot.com. You can contact Chelle at: outsidezbox at comcast dot net

2007-09-10T12:30:00.000-05:00

JULIE'S BIO

Meet Digital Mama: Julie Clark

Julie Clark has always had a creative streak. It has manifested itself in various ways over the years but no matter what media she is using, it has always involved photography in some form or fashion. Given her first camera as a birthday gift as a young child, Julie started snapping pictures and has never stopped. Becoming a mom, of course, only made her photography habit harder to kick so instead she came up with creative ways to preserve all of those images. Julie transforms videos and photos into heartwarming DVD movies that entire families can enjoy year after year. Digital Scrapbooking soon followed as a creative way to chronicle the milestones of her children. And don’t forget: Photo Christmas Cards & Birth Announcements!

Julie sells her scrapbook wares on-line at ScrapbookMAX! You can also see sample birth announcements HERE, her DVDs HERE, and new this year: CHORE CHARTS and do it yourself note cards!

Julie is the happy Bride of Bruce, proud mama to Abby and Nathan and is expecting Clark Baby #3 in April of 2008!

How To Contact Julie: mamamade at comcast dot net

2007-09-10T12:15:00.000-05:00

THE MAMAMADE STORY:

Little did we know that as we birthed our babies, we would be filled with a creativity we did not really expect to surface in these years filled with so many sleepless nights.

As we lay awake on those nights when everyone else in the house had FINALLY drifted off to sleep, our mama brains worked overtime. In between those long nursing sessions, diaper changes and quiet smooches, the ideas for our businesses crystallized.

Many of us are full time at home mamas. Others are by profession reporters, therapists, teachers, nurses, and more but it is the marathon that is mothering that has given us the stamina to build our businesses, at the same time we build our families. We come from an eclectic variety of backgrounds and philosophies but we are all bound together by that great equalizer: motherhood.

Thank you for visiting our site and supporting our businesses.

We will treat you right.

Mama always does.

Click HERE to see bios of all the mamas!

2007-09-09T21:46:00.000-05:00

From: Chelle

Howdy-ho, I am the resident saw dust maker of the group. Last year this group inspired me to dust off the cobwebs covering the creative part of my brain and get back to making stuff. So I came up with a children's table set and some activity pads for little creative minds. I will have both of these things again this year along with some new things. I have been glueing and sawing up a storm over the past few days and have some up with some nice cutting boards. I have a large one (1o"x10") and a mini one (6"x6"). I have some ideas floating around in my brain for other items and I'll post about them as I manage to actually make them. I also have set up a blog about my projects so feel free to check it out.

2007-09-08T23:36:00.000-05:00

FROM MARIA:

I'm a hand-dying mama, so I'll be bringing my family wares, all on organic cotton. I love to specialize in matching parent-child tie dyes, or clothes for siblings . I also have organic baby layette sets, so hope to have those put together in cute 3 packs & gift sets. New items in the works for this fall: I am looking for suppliers of bamboo clothing and have a lead on a line of shirts & baby things all milled & sewn in the US. More pictures & info can be seen at spiralmarketdyeworks.blogspot.com ~Maria

2007-09-07T21:24:00.001-05:00

FROM JULIE:

My contribution this year at Mamamade is going to be birth announcements and chore charts.

They are magnetic charts that can be put on the fridge. There are "tiles' with different chores on them and the child gets to move the tile to the chart when they complete that task. Around our house, we call them chores. We do most of them first thing in the morning but there are things that we do as we go throughout our day. Abby loves to help with the Laundry especially. She waits for the buzzer to go off and she gets all the clothes out (and then she jumps in the while they're still warm - gotta make it fun, right?) After an adequate amount of jumping, we sort the clothes into piles, fold them ( well... I mostly do that but she does help with the sheets and she knows how to sort and fold the socks!), and then we put everything away. She's such a great helper! Sometimes we even get a stopwatch and play "beat the beeper" to see if we can finish before the timer goes off.

Some folks who have placed orders already have asked that the word "chore" be replaced with "responsibility" and that's the cool thing with these - they can be personalized with whatever you would like! I also have had a request to break up the chart into evening and morning. Requests welcome! All I need is a high resolution photo. You pick your theme and then pick from a list of chores and that's it!

Ready made (non-personalized charts) are available at Mamamade for $10.00. I will also be taking orders for Personalized ones - The Mamamade price for personalized ones will be $15.00 and they will be ready by Christmas.

Soon I will get a sideshow up of all available themes. Here are some samples of what I have done so far. (The list of tiles is at the bottom)

(Click To Enlarge!)

2007-09-06T22:59:00.001-05:00

FROM JENNI:

I have only concieved of the wares I hope to sell at Mamamade this year. My second son was born just 7 weeks ago so all I have had time/energy to do so far is to dream things up, but I am excited (it's funny, I was just barely pregnant at last year's show, something like 4 weeks, didn't even know it yet!).

I found some beautiful tan linen with ivory stripes, almost like a ticking, that I am going to paint and hand embroider on. I am thinking some florals, maybe a bird on a tree limb, who knows, i just know I love that fabric and we'll see what happens. Also I am experimenting with stretching this and other fabrics onto frames so I can embroider hanging pieces as well. Has anyone out there stretched any fabric like a canvas? Is it true I do this with wet fabric and let it dry?

I have also been doing fashion drawings lately and hope to have a few of those to bring along.

i can't wait to see the little girl dresses you made, Tisra!

2007-09-06T21:09:00.000-05:00

FROM TISRA:

Only 71 days 'til Mamamade 2007!

I'm working on linoleum block prints (both framed art, and hand-printed cards), watercolor paintings, and some sewn items (Pack N Play sheets, maybe a few little girls' dresses I designed, and some of the Hair Pretties and Everyday Corsages from last year's sale).

What has everyone else got planned or in process?

2007-08-25T14:57:00.000-05:00

Got a question about mamamade.biz?

Please e-mail us at mamamade AT comcast DOT net

Thanks!