Pittsburgh's Handmade Arcade looking for vendors as it goes virtual
The annual Handmade Arcade will be held virtually this year.
The event’s “Virtual Marketplace” will launch on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 28, and run through Dec. 6.
Vendor applications are being accepted. The deadline is Aug. 22.
Apply here.
Everyone who applies will get a link to a free webinar.
Artists will be notified on Sept. 25. The lineup of approximately 150 makers will be announced in October.
Handmade Arcade decided to cancel all in-person events in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“A big part of the event is meeting the maker and learning about the merchandise, we still wanted to provide that connection,” said Jennifer Baron, director of marketing and outreach for Handmade Arcade. “So, there will be interactive experiences such as behind-the-scenes studio tours and meet the maker question and answer sessions.”
The live segments will be available for future viewing, she said.
APPLICATIONS are open for DIGITAL DIY: A Virtual Marketplace presented by Handmade Arcade! DIGITAL DIY will launch on Small Business Saturday, November 28, and run through December 6! Due to COVID-19, HA has canceled in-person events for 2020. APPLY TODAY!https://t.co/WpSDdltscx pic.twitter.com/2ebSqMVl4k
— handmade arcade (@HandmadeArcade) July 21, 2020
Products will encompass everything from artwork and bath and body products to clothing, house décor, jewelry, pet products, toys, ceramics and glassware.
The past few months have been a challenge for everyone, Baron said.
“We want to give everyone an opportunity to continue to support these local makers,” said Baron of the event which has brought in $450,000 in sales. “We have such a huge audience that supports Handmade Arcade that we want them to be able to support the makers, many who rely on this event.This holiday event is one of the vendor’s most lucrative times of the year. It’s a big part of their livelihood.”
JoAnne Klimovich Harrop is a TribLive reporter covering the region's diverse culinary scene and unique homes. She writes features about interesting people. The Edward R. Murrow award-winning journalist began her career as a sports reporter. She has been with the Trib for 26 years and is the author of "A Daughter's Promise." She can be reached at jharrop@triblive.com.
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