The Dream...

When we opened the store, we opened with a dream and a shoestring budget.  At the time, the government's credit had been downgraded and we were told that we were crazy for even considering opening a brick-and-mortar store.  So many small businesses were dropping like flies...

... but, we followed our hearts and held on tight to our dreams.

We wanted to create a place that shared artwork and inspired everyone who walked through the doors. We wanted to create a space that was more than just a store, but a meeting place of the muses.  We wanted to create a beautiful atmosphere that would visually reward and creatively provoke.  We wanted to empower and educate and deliver the most simple message of all:  You can do it!

It has been a little over two years and we're still holding on to that dream.  I like to think of all the wonderful people who have come through our doors and become lifelong friends and creative collaborators and have shared in our vision.  I like to think about the people who now have their own small businesses, who were first inspired by us and took the leap of faith to make a living off of the things they make.  I like to think about all the people who have come in and shared their lives with us.... in the short time that we have been around, we have been fortunate enough to see babies born, friends married, and have been able to comfort those who have lost loved ones.  It has been an honor and a pleasure to be a member of this community.

And while it hasn't always been easy, we have been blessed richly and shown a great bounty of support.

I ask you now for a few minutes of your time to show your support again and lend a helping hand.  We are currently applying for the Main Street Grant offered through Chase.  Winners are rewarded with a $250,000 grant!  Winning this would allow us to continue to pursue our dreams and expand upon our original vision.  We could progress by leaps and bounds!  It would be such a truly amazing opportunity!

But in order to be eligible for this grant, we need 250 votes!

It's easy to help.  All you have to do is be signed up for Facebook and CLICK HERE to vote.  If you want to do more to help, you can share the link and encourage your friends and family to vote for us as well.  We want to show Chase and the Main Street Grant committee that we can do it!