Flint Handmade blends love and creativity together for Valentine Craft Market event

FLINT, Michigan — Flint Handmade is set to bring a handcrafted touch to Valentine’s Day with its upcoming Valentine Craft Market on Saturday, Feb. 8, at the Flint Farmers' Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature a carefully curated selection of handmade goods, live music, and an opportunity to support the creative talent of local artisans.

Since its founding, Flint Handmade has been a driving force in supporting local makers and fostering a strong sense of community in Flint. Known for hosting vibrant craft markets and workshops, the nonprofit organization provides platforms for artisans to share their talents while 

Market attendees can expect an array of unique, handcrafted products from local makers, offering everything from soaps and candles to ceramics and home decor. Adding to the festive love-filled atmosphere, the event will feature live music performances by local musicians Erik McIntyre and Alex Belhaj.

“Attendees can expect a wide range of handmade goods from a variety of vendors,” said Crystal Pepperdine, event organizer and founder of Flint Handmade. “From soap and candles to ceramics and home decor, our artisans have something that would make a great gift for all of your loved ones—including yourself!” Flint Handmade events are curated to include only locally made, handcrafted items.

“There are no mass-produced items or AI-generated ‘art,’” said Pepperdine. “Everything comes from the minds and hands of individuals. The community appreciates that we carefully curate our craft markets in this way. Shoppers are delighted to find one-of-a-kind pieces and then be able to interact with the real live person who made it.”

For many artists, finding a marketplace that focuses solely on handmade goods can be challenging. Flint Handmade’s events aim to provide a space for artisans to sell their work alongside other creators.

“As a nonprofit arts organization, it is part of our mission to support the entrepreneurial efforts of local artisans,” Pepperdine said. “Artists deserve to be fairly compensated for their labor just like all other workers.”

This year, the market will introduce six vendors new to Flint Handmade, including Trailside Ceramics by Molly Brice, which features nature-inspired designs.
“We are so excited to have six vendors brand new to Flint Handmade at this year's market,” said Pepperdine. “Molly’s work is inspired by nature and features adorable floral and fauna.”

According to Pepperdine, purchasing from local makers helps keep money circulating in the community.

“Shopping small, local, and handmade ensures that our local economy is supported and can hopefully grow and flourish,” she said.

For more information, visit Flint Handmade’s Facebook page here.