Friday, March 20, 2026

🌸 Rocky River Spring Handmade Market – Meet the Makers

🐢 White Dog Crafts – Jody Pelasky

At the heart of White Dog Crafts is storytelling—layered, intentional, and deeply personal.

Jody Pelasky creates intricate 3D layered shadowboxes and paper art pieces that feel both artistic and emotional. What started as a creative outlet has grown into a thriving handmade business with over 1,000 sales and a loyal community of repeat customers.

Her inspiration comes from everywhere—dogs, seasons, pop culture, meaningful quotes, and the small, everyday moments that deserve to be remembered. Each design begins with a story and evolves through careful planning, color selection, and precision layering.

Every piece is assembled by hand, layer by layer, making each one truly unique.

🐾 And of course, no creation happens without her fluffy white studio assistant, Shiloh.

Jody’s journey into paper crafting began as a creative escape, making gifts for friends and family. Over time, she realized her work resonated deeply with others—and that connection is what continues to drive her.

✨ “Handmade matters.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to continue growing through shows, collaborations, and custom work, while staying true to the heart and intention behind every piece.


🎭 4Shorts – 3D Printing & Crafts (Jon Short)

Creativity runs deep for Jon Short, the artist behind 4Shorts – 3D Printing & Crafts.

Blending technology with traditional artistry, Jon creates everything from 3D printed pieces to needle crafts and handmade puppets. While he has been creating for years, he recently took the leap into turning his passion into a full-time business.


Art has always been part of his life. Inspired by his grandmother, who worked in ceramics, drawing, and painting, Jon grew up surrounded by creativity. While his background is rooted in performing arts like music and acting, visual art has always been a passion—and now, a profession.

His approach is simple but powerful:

✨ “Bringing imagination to life.”

Ideas come from everywhere—nature, everyday needs, imagination—and are refined until they become something tangible to share with others.

With this being his second Avant-Garde show, Jon is excited to continue expanding his online presence and dreams of one day opening a brick-and-mortar space.

🌐 www.4shorts3dprintingandcrafts.com


πŸͺ΅ Cartwright Collective – Heidi & Brent Cartwright

What started with a meaningful inheritance has grown into a beautifully crafted business rooted in family and tradition.

Cartwright Collective is a husband-and-wife woodworking duo that locally sources their wood and transforms it into stunning, handcrafted pieces. Every item is created in their garage workshop, where Brent carefully planes and works with the natural grain to bring each design to life.

Their journey began in 2019 after inheriting tools from Brent’s father and grandfather. What started as a Christmas gift—a tree-shaped charcuterie board—quickly gained attention online, leading to custom requests and the launch of their Etsy shop.

From there, the business grew organically.

Creativity runs in the family—Heidi grew up surrounded by makers, from jewelry to woodworking—and that influence continues today as they raise their own children with the same appreciation for creating.

Their process is thoughtful and iterative. Ideas are constantly evolving, refined again and again until the final piece feels worthy of becoming part of someone’s home.

✨ “Intentional and artisanal.”

Every piece is made by hand—cut, sanded, and finished with care—ensuring that what customers bring home is not just functional, but meaningful.


🎨 Sadie Kai Redesign – Briana Yamane

For Briana Yamane, art is more than something you create—it’s something you feel.

As a Japanese American artist, wife, and mother, Briana draws deep inspiration from her heritage and upbringing. Surrounded by Japanese art forms like painting, origami, and calligraphy, she developed an appreciation for beauty, balance, and intentional design early on.

Her work today blends modern minimalism with texture, creating calming, neutral pieces that bring peace into everyday spaces.

But her journey into business didn’t start with a plan—it started with a shift in perspective.

After becoming a stay-at-home mom, Briana began looking for something that was just hers. She started painting and upcycling dΓ©cor in her own home—transforming old vases, lamps, and mirrors into something new.

What began as a personal project quickly grew when friends and guests began encouraging her to sell her work.

Her creative process is deeply meditative. Working late at night or during quiet moments, she paints while listening to calming music, fully immersed in the experience.

✨ “Be still. Be present. Be mindful.”

Her goal is simple yet powerful—to create pieces that bring a sense of calm and tranquility into a busy world.


🎨 Julie Smolinski – Acrylic Pouring & Repurposed Creations

After a 50-year career in the medical field, Julie Smolinski is embracing a new chapter—one filled with creativity, color, and exploration.

Through acrylic paint pouring and sewing with repurposed fabrics, Julie has found a beautiful way to express herself and give new life to everyday materials.

Her journey into art began unexpectedly. Encouraged by her husband to watch paint pouring videos (instead of crime shows!), she quickly became captivated by the movement, flow, and unpredictability of the medium.

And just like that—she was hooked.

For Julie, the magic lies in the process itself. The way colors blend, move, and naturally form something entirely unique.

Her work reflects her love for nature, creativity, and sustainability—transforming the ordinary into something beautiful and functional.

This will be her first Avant-Garde show, and she’s excited to share her creations and connect with others.


🌿 Awakening Body Products- Vedelia Tompkins

Founded in 2011, Awakening Body Products is rooted in both care and purpose.

What began in 2007 as a solution for a mother’s son struggling with severe eczema has grown into a full line of all-natural skincare products designed to soothe and heal sensitive skin.

Created by a Registered Nurse, every product is thoughtfully formulated to support conditions like eczema, psoriasis, burns, and rashes—while also helping to reduce scarring.

Their product line includes:
✨ Whipped Mango Body Butters
✨ Soaps
✨ Lotions
✨ Beard Oils
✨ Soy Candles

With a wide variety of scents—from Almond and Brown Sugar to Coconut, Grapefruit, and Vanilla Bean—there’s something for everyone.

Their best-selling soaps include Goat Milk, Honey Oat, Aloe with Cocoa Butter, and Oatmeal Honey with Mango Butter.

πŸ’› Their mission is clear:
To provide natural, effective products that truly care for your skin.


πŸ›️ Join Us in Rocky River!

These makers—and so many more—are what make the Rocky River Spring Handmade Market such a special experience.

From handcrafted woodwork and layered paper art to sustainable skincare, original artwork, and imaginative creations, there’s truly something for everyone.

✨ Come shop small, support local, and connect with the stories behind the products.

We can’t wait to see you there! πŸ’›

2023 Rocky River Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday, March 11 (10am-4pm) & Sunday, March 12 (11am-4pm)
Rocky River Memorial Hall (Next to Rec)
21016 Hilliard Blvd.
Rocky River, OH 44116
For more information, contact Becki Silverstein, Event Coordinator at Becki@ag-shows.com
Visit us on:
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
PINTEREST

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

From Bees to Bundt Cakes: Meet the Makers of Rocky River!

 πŸΎ Happy Cat Cat Toys – Claire Nelson

Claire Nelson, the creator behind Happy Cat Cat Toys, proves that some of the best businesses start with love—and in her case, love for cats.

Claire works full-time while also caring for her family, five cats (Sushi, SakΓ©, Miso, Mochi, and Leo), and even neighborhood stray cats. Her passion for animals is at the heart of everything she creates.


Her business began less than a year ago, but her journey into crafting goes back much further. Claire learned to sew as a child from her mom and has always loved creating. When her cat Miso was dealing with health challenges early on, Claire discovered how calming catnip could be—and that sparked an idea.

Instead of simply giving catnip loose, Claire began experimenting with handmade toys, including catnip kickers. Miso loved them… and so did the rest of her cats. That moment turned into something bigger, and before long, Claire found herself creating toys for other cat owners who wanted the same enrichment for their pets.

Her creative process starts with sourcing fun, unique fabrics—especially ones featuring cats—and turning them into toys that are not only adorable but purposeful. Each piece is designed to encourage interactive play, reduce boredom, and enrich cats’ daily lives.

✨ “I love being able to foster enrichment and interactive play for cats.”

This will be Claire’s second Avant-Garde show, and she hopes to continue growing her Etsy shop and expanding her reach through more markets.

πŸ›️ Shop her work:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/HappyCatbyClaire?dd_referrer=


🍯 Bittner Bees – A Family Legacy of Beekeeping

Bittner Bees is more than a business—it’s a multi-generational passion rooted in nature, resilience, and family.

Rick’s journey began in 1978 when he caught his very first swarm of bees. What started as curiosity quickly became a lifelong calling. Today, alongside Julie and their family, they’ve grown into one of the largest professional migratory beekeeping operations in Northeast Ohio.

Their story is deeply tied to community and connection. Rick and Julie even got married at a farmer’s market—an unforgettable moment that perfectly reflects their shared love of agriculture and local life.

What makes Bittner Bees truly special is their hands-on approach. They raise their own bees, manage every hive, extract their own honey, craft their products, and even build much of their own equipment. It’s a level of care and dedication you can truly taste.

              

 

               

Family remains at the center of everything they do, with Rick’s sisters often helping in the bee yards and at shows like this one.Over the years, they’ve earned multiple awards at county fairs and been featured in regional food guides—testament to the quality of their honey and products.

Each winter, they take their bees to Florida, where they produce sought-after varieties like Orange Blossom and Palmetto honey—ensuring their bees stay healthy and productive year-round.

🌼 Their mission is simple:
Make the world better—one bee at a time.

🌐 Learn more: BittnerBees.com


🎨 Crafty Cardinal LLC – Alexis Brandt

Alexis, the owner of Crafty Cardinal LLC, turned a creative outlet into a thriving small business—and her story is one so many can relate to.

As a stay-at-home mom, she was looking for something that was her own—something she could build, grow, and feel passionate about. What started as experimenting with custom magnets and buttons quickly turned into a business when she saw how much people loved personalized, meaningful items.

Now, three years later, Crafty Cardinal LLC continues to grow, offering custom magnets, buttons, mirrors, and event pieces for everything from birthdays and fundraisers to business branding.

Her biggest inspiration? Her kids.


Their creativity and excitement push her to keep evolving, trying new ideas, and bringing fresh designs to life. She’s also inspired by holidays, community events, and the joy people feel when they receive something made just for them.

Her creative process blends digital design with hands-on production—testing prints, adjusting colors, and ensuring every piece is clean, vibrant, and high-quality.

✨ “I want people to have something small they can keep that reminds them of that moment.”

This will be her very first Avant-Garde show, and she’s excited to connect with new customers and fellow creatives.

Her long-term vision includes expanding into larger events, offering live on-site customization, and potentially opening a studio space—all while maintaining the personal touch that makes her brand special.

πŸ’« Making Magnetic Memories.


🍰 Nothing Bundt Cakes – Avon, OH

For the team at Nothing Bundt Cakes in Avon, baking is about more than just dessert—it’s about creating joy and connection.

They’ve been serving Northeast Ohio for nearly nine years, bringing their signature cakes to celebrations both big and small. As part of a brand that’s been around for over two decades, they combine proven recipes with a strong local, community-focused approach.

Many of their team members share a love of baking, and that passion shines through in every cake they create. Everything is baked, frosted, and decorated in-house with careful attention to detail.

One team member shared that their journey started when their grandmother brought a Nothing Bundt Cake to a family gathering—and they instantly fell in love. That moment led to a career with the company, growing from a froster to a key part of the team.

Their creative process centers on consistency, quality, and understanding the role their cakes play in people’s lives—from celebrations to everyday treats.

πŸ’› Their guiding message:
“Bring the Joy.”

They strive to make every customer interaction feel personal, meaningful, and memorable—not just a transaction.


🍴 Stephanie Pallay & Tyler Scales – Elevated Culinary Creations

With a culinary degree and over 18 years of experience, Stephanie Pallay brings both expertise and passion to her business.

Originally from Tampa Bay and now based in Ohio, she launched her own culinary venture in 2025, balancing entrepreneurship with raising two young children.

Her journey into food began early—learning from her mother at just 13 years old and entering the industry by age 15. That lifelong dedication has shaped her into a skilled and thoughtful creator.

Her approach to cooking is both artistic and scientific. She describes her creative process as calculated and precise, with a focus on developing refined, exceptional flavors.

✨ Her inspiration comes from creating memorable dining experiences—those moments when food brings people together and creates lasting impressions.

Her goal is to expand her footprint in the industry while continuing to make high-quality, premium flavor experiences accessible and approachable.


πŸ‘Ÿ Organic Garments – Sustainable Style with Purpose- Janet Thiede 

Organic Garments is redefining footwear through sustainability, innovation, and storytelling.

Founded in 2018, the brand was inspired by deeply rooted family values passed down from Josh’s grandfather, who taught him the importance of patience, resilience, and respect for the earth.

Those lessons shaped a bold vision: to create sneakers that are not only stylish and comfortable but also environmentally responsible.

Today, Organic Garments produces plant-based sneakers using materials like hemp and pineapple leaf fibers—pushing the boundaries of what sustainable fashion can be.

Josh’s journey to get there was anything but simple. From sketching early ideas on a napkin to taking courses in sneaker design and researching innovative materials, he dedicated years to perfecting his craft.

Now, the brand is evolving even further—introducing new styles like high-tops and denim low-tops while continuing to innovate with materials like mushrooms and other plant-based fabrics.

One of the most exciting aspects of their business is collaboration with local artists, who use the sneakers as a canvas to create meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces.

🌱 Their message is powerful:
Business can be a force for good. Sustainability and style can coexist. And the choices we make today shape the legacy we leave behind.


πŸ›️ Join Us This Weekend in Rocky River!

These are just a few of the incredible vendors you’ll meet at the Rocky River Spring Handmade Market.

From handmade pet products and personalized gifts to gourmet treats, sustainable fashion, and artisan goods—there’s something for everyone.

✨ Come shop small, support local, and connect with the stories behind the products.

We can’t wait to see you there! πŸ’›

2023 Rocky River Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show
Saturday, March 11 (10am-4pm) & Sunday, March 12 (11am-4pm)
Rocky River Memorial Hall (Next to Rec)
21016 Hilliard Blvd.
Rocky River, OH 44116
For more information, contact Becki Silverstein, Event Coordinator at Becki@ag-shows.com
Visit us on:
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
PINTEREST