As we all know, once Thanksgiving passes, it can feel like a freefall through the holiday season, rushing from one event to the next and desperately cramming shopping in between. Before you let yourself get carried away on that manic bandwagon, Etsy and The One of a Kind Show have something to say about it!
Lisa Simonian, the vice president of marketing for the One of a Kind Show and Sale — now in its 35th year! — joined us to talk about the inherent value of handmade items and the fun of getting to know the people and stories behind them.
Here at Etsy, we take this message very much to heart, and we are excited to be partnering with The One of a Kind Show and Sales® in Chicago and New York this December to present The Etsy Artist Pavilion for emerging artists. This dedicated area of each show will feature more than twenty Etsy artists — just a fraction of the incredible and diverse talents on the site itself, but a welcome alternative to that four-letter word, “mall.” We hope you can join us!
Now, on to our interview with Lisa…
Can you tell us a little about the One of a Kind Show? Where did it start?
Similar to most brilliant ideas, the One of a Kind Show was born out of a simple desire for something more! The show is the brainchild of Torontonians Steven Levy, Martin Rumack and June Bibby. It was 1975 and June: an artisan couldn’t find a place to sell her work before Christmas. So she, along with friends Steven and Martin, decided to create a holiday shopping venue. After a great deal of legwork and countless all-nighters, the trio launched the first One of a Kind Show at Toronto’s Queen Elizabeth Building in December 1975. Today the show is a wildly popular annual event that runs in Toronto, Vancouver, Chicago, and soon to be New York.
[Vases by Christopher Mosey]
This is the first year the show is appearing in New York — what can people expect at this show?
They can expect to find the unexpected and things they won’t be able to find anywhere else! They can expect to find truly unique gifts items from the 275 talented artisans who will set up shop at the show. They can expect to meet in-person every artist, artisan and designer represented, and they can expect to find a fun and easy shopping experience with cafes, lounges, fashion shows, artist demonstrations, expert presentations, craft workshops, live music, coat and package check, and giftwrapping.
What are your goals for the OOAK Show?
True to the founders, our goal is to create the ideal venue for artisans to sell their work and the ideal venue for shoppers to buy artisan work.
[Sculptures by Dailey Woodworking]
The One of a Kind Show has been around for thirty five years. That’s a long time! What’s your favorite memory from OOAK shows past?
I’ve been with the Chicago show for six years and I have six years worth of wonderful memories of working with my One of a Kind colleagues and with our One of a Kind artisans. What stands out most in my mind when I think of past shows is that the show is always such a happy event. You walk through the aisles and somehow it’s smiles and laughter everywhere. People who don’t even like to shop love the show! I think the concept and environment make people feel good.
What’s your favorite item that you’ve purchased? What does it mean to you?
A beautiful seafoam green handknit wool sweater and matching hat that I bought for my daughter before she was born. She’s now well outgrown it — but it is still in pristine condition and we’ll keep it forever… for her daughter, perhaps!
[Ceramics by Lois Aronow]
What do you think is the draw of handmade items? Besides the obvious beauty, why should people buy handmade for the holidays?
As you know at Etsy, people are more conscious these days about how and by whom things are made. There’s a newfound appreciation for craftsmanship. When an item is handmade there’s heart and soul behind it. Someone (not a machine!) had the desire, and took the time and effort, to create it. Holiday gifts should be meaningful — so it’s the perfect match.
What kind of workshops and seminars are offered at the OOAK Show?
There will always be something going on at the show stage. We’ll have fashion shows showcasing wearable art from the show, artist demonstrations, presentations by Hello Craft and ReadyMade magazine, a panel of editors discussing “The Evolution of Craft” and live music by up-and-coming musicians. ReadyMade and Hello Craft will also be conducting various how-to workshops at their booths on the show floor. Etsy will be hosting a handmade ornament workshop with fabric from Spoonflower at their booth at the show in New York.
[Sculpture by Dolan Geiman]
What’s the number one reason to attend the OOAK show?
To shop for wonderfully unique work and to support the artisan community while doing it!
Check out the One of a Kind Show Artists Guide and the Related Items below for a sneak peek of Etsy artists selling at this year’s show. Will you be attending the One of a Kind Show in Chicago or New York? Let us know in the comments!
115 comments
Sign in to add your ownCatzillaCrafts says:
The recycled license plate map is amazing!
2 years ago
hypothesis says:
Hypothesis loves one of a kind items! Great article and show.
2 years ago
pootsies says:
How awesome!
2 years ago
revampedart says:
very cool stuff, along with the theme of hanmade holidays, check out yesterday's blog about homemade gifts, there will be more to follow for sure http://www.revampedart.com/2009/12/01/handmade-christmas/
2 years ago
recycledwares says:
what a great idea, wish i could be there.
2 years ago
SimpleJoysPaperie says:
Wonderful line-up! Good luck to all who will be at this show!
2 years ago
craftscafe says:
Great event! Wish I could attend... Thanks etsy for covering it!
2 years ago
italianpostcards says:
What a fantastic idea!
2 years ago
3littlebirdsboutique says:
I am a HUGE advocate of One of a kind items! Here is an OOAK girl's vintage inspired dress from my own shop: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30810309
2 years ago
couturedesignsbym says:
Handmade vs. made in China...hmmmm, I think we artists can agree what makes something special. Good luck to all this mad season!
2 years ago
PeppermintDaydreams says:
Wow looks amazing! Wish I was in the area...I'd be there in a heart beat.
2 years ago
BabbidgePatch says:
fabulous pics !
2 years ago
urbanknitfits says:
OOAK! So great! Love this story. I'm so happy they are coming to New York, a perfect place for it! Giving OOAK pieces is such a great idea, because it really makes the recipient feel special because they too are OOAK!
2 years ago
bylynnkrestel says:
i have been many times to ooak toronto - absolutely amazing and inspiring! it was in vancouver this year for the second time! i have travelled long distances to attend - and was never disappointed.. some day i will show there!! if you are able to go - don't miss it!!
2 years ago
sonyarasi says:
Beautiful work!
2 years ago
ModernMetalJewelry says:
Good luck to all attending! All great picks, but I am crazy about the Lois Aronow bowls. Just fantastic!
2 years ago
corelladesign says:
What a fabulous event. I wishing I could be there.
2 years ago
redyellowandblueink says:
what an awesome event! Wow and in it's 35th year!? looks like a lot of fun for the east coast.
2 years ago
LisaFerinDesigns says:
I might try to get to the Chicago show! Beautiful stuff!
2 years ago
BlueTerracotta says:
How exciting for the artists and buyers who will be able to go!
2 years ago
CarryTheWord says:
Fantastic!
2 years ago
vintagemercantile says:
Had I known of the Chicago show earlier I might have tried to go back (I was raised there) and visit with friends while taking in the show. Is there a way to get on a mailing list for next year? Thanks, Lisa
2 years ago
buttercupbloom says:
Fantastic! Have a great Show!!
2 years ago
Ebruk says:
What a fantastic idea.!
2 years ago
babinka1981 says:
Very nice! I love it!
2 years ago
cutiepiecompany says:
We'll be in attendance at the ny show--can't wait to check out the Etsy pavillion!
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
Those vases by Christopher Mosey are gorgeous! They look like fire!
2 years ago
AnAapparel says:
Standing Ovation
2 years ago
handyhandscorner says:
I am happy Etsy stuff is getting widely recognized!
2 years ago
nowonder says:
I love the texture of the items you picked!
2 years ago
yummyandcompany says:
good luck at the show everybody!!!
2 years ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
Wow that's exciting. I wish we had something like that here that we could be apart of. I'm excited just reading about this fabulous event. WOW!
2 years ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
I hope that all of the ETSY artisans do really well make a lot of contacts and of course sells. Good Luck to All.
2 years ago
CharliesApt says:
Wow, wish I was going!!
2 years ago
EvenAndy says:
Good luck to all participating:) Sounds like it will be a wonderful event:)
2 years ago
tanisalexis says:
fantastic! the OOAK show is always a hit here in Canada. Best wishes to all the artists!!
2 years ago
rosebudshome says:
for people like me who can't be there, I thank you.
2 years ago
Furiousdreams says:
I hope someday to get to one of these shows- they're great exposure for us Etsyites. Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
WickedlyGood says:
I love this show and I have gone to it for many years, so glad to Etsy there this year! I'm bringing friends and I plan shop til I drop!
2 years ago
FrostedWillow says:
This looks like it would be so much fun to attend! Lots of great things to see!!!
2 years ago
shizendesigns says:
Beautiful items!!
2 years ago
odiliafu says:
This event must be fun!! I also like the custom fabric printing idea from Spoonflower.
2 years ago
VixVintage says:
Next year for sure. Thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
SamAndCoop says:
We will be showing there! If you can't make it, please visit my store.
2 years ago
rebounddesigns says:
Don't forget, there are Etsy artists showing in the main portion of the show as well, not just the special Etsy Pavilion. I'll be in booth I 13, come say hi!
2 years ago
AnniesWearableArt says:
Just one more great reason to go back to the windy city! :)
2 years ago
TickledPinkKnits says:
I'm so excited to be part of the Etsy Pavilion at the NYC show. Look for me in "Booth" H59 and stop by to say hi! :)
2 years ago
jbeaudet says:
I wish I could go!
2 years ago
oldworldprimitives says:
I wish I could be at this show! Good luck to all who will be participating.
2 years ago
BululuStudio says:
Love it.
2 years ago
whyte says:
Love the stuff you have in NY!
2 years ago
blueskyclouds says:
I would SO LOVE to go to this show!!!!!!! And be in it too!!!!! Good luck to all!
2 years ago
1AEON says:
Nice selection!!! Holidays are so great!!!!!! Im super stoked!
2 years ago
JDavisStudio says:
Stop by and see me in NYC :) So glad Etsy is partnering with this great show!
2 years ago
TheLoudLion says:
ooooh - i wish i could go....i grew up in Toronto and do miss it a lot...especially the snow. Good luck to all participants! xoox
2 years ago
bijougirldesigns says:
ooohhh..I wish I lived closer and could come! I hope it's an amazing show!
2 years ago
TheWayUmakeMeFeel says:
I wonder if Vintage clothing will/was included. Etsy doesn't do a good enough job of promoting it. I always feel that they need to do more. I have one of a kind super fabulous vintage! check it out. http://thewayumakemefeel.etsy.com
2 years ago
LustreBeads says:
Ooooh! Wonderful!
2 years ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Would love to attend one of these shows someday, wonderful eye candy for the soul and eyes to behold. Good luck to all the vendors-designers as well.
2 years ago
reworkedart says:
i am in love with that map on the wall...
2 years ago
riricreations says:
Best of luck to the sellers and shoppers!
2 years ago
patspottery says:
I wish they would have one here in Florida!
2 years ago
YayaOrchid says:
I too wish I could attend. Best of luck to everyone!
2 years ago
littlemoandfriends says:
good luck! i'm sure it will be fun!
2 years ago
QuiltFinger says:
Exciting! There can never be enough events like this!
2 years ago
JewelsofLuxury says:
MY FRIEND MEGAN GREEN IS AT THE CHICAGO OOAK SHOW RIGHT NOW WITH HER ITEMS! STINKY BOMB SOAP! http://stinkybomb.etsy.com SHE SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THIS LINE UP ;-) CHEERS!!
2 years ago
opendoorstudio says:
This is an awesome show and a great opportunity for these artists! I have been and unfortunately will miss it this year! great feature!
2 years ago
OneClayBead says:
Beautiful pieces- and I love the one of a kind bags! I would buy something just to show off my bag!
2 years ago
tastesorangey says:
When is OOAK going to happen in the Bay Area????
2 years ago
PillowPallooza says:
Wish I could be there !
2 years ago
MTcoffinzUnderground says:
Oh that looks like such a fun event!
2 years ago
spacejam says:
how wonderul!! I wish I could go...
2 years ago
FairyDecos says:
Very nice picks and seems to become a great show! All the best! FairyDecos*
2 years ago
cynthiadelgiudice says:
Wonderdul! Good luck on the show!
2 years ago
greeneyezdesignz says:
Wish I could go! I LOVE one of a kind things! I can not believe that someone has not done this before in the greater Houston area.
2 years ago
PickalaPoopa says:
opening day is here! my booth is between knottyloop and thebrickkiln, good company. looking forward to seeing everyone.
2 years ago
ArtisticIntentions says:
Fabulous!! Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
missbatch says:
Hi all- I'm here at the OOAK show in Chicago getting set up... and it is AMAZING! There is so much diverse and incredible work. If you're in the areas, please stop by and say "hello"! Etsy is at booth 3001 and the Etsy Artists Pavilion is right next to the main cafe. Hope to see you here! -Christina
2 years ago
JourneyDesigns says:
This is great. I had no idea and so close. Maybe I can check it out next year, that would be some fun Christmas shopping. Good luck!
2 years ago
Iammie says:
Great items, love them.
2 years ago
SimpleTraditions says:
I love EVERYTHING!
2 years ago
tigerlillyshop says:
very excited to be a part of the NYC show! we are in production mode counting down.... aaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!
2 years ago
galstudio says:
The 'Art' of great craftsmanship... 'A person who works with his hands is a laborer. A person who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman. A person who works with his hands, his brain and his heart is an artist' Louis Nizer
2 years ago
LucindaAndJane says:
beautiful items! gifts should be handmade, I think they mean more that way. I've been handcrafting gifts for my family for years, as its always appreciated more :)
2 years ago
GemmaBeads says:
Stunning selections! I love one of a kind shopping and gift giving!
2 years ago
bessmartin says:
can you give me vendor information on the license plate map shown on the advertisement for the One of a Kind Show? thank you bess340@sbcglobal.net
2 years ago
lilprincessbow says:
Wow what an awesome show! too bad I am too far away to attend! maybe next year they will be in LA?
2 years ago
lifeofcolors says:
How about a OOAK show in Colorado? :-)
2 years ago
heahea says:
I love the one of a kind shows,they are inspirational! My favorite artist in T.O. was Leslie Anne Green an amazind ceramic\doll artist!
2 years ago
IslaNewYork says:
I'm definitely going to check it out!!!
2 years ago
heahea says:
I always find the shows in T.O. inspirational.I especially love the doll\ceramic artist Leslie Anne Green to be amazing!!
2 years ago
rosalera says:
I will be attending the Chicago show. A friend of mine does the promotion for one of the OOAK show partners, the Alliance for the Great Lakes. I believe they still have some free passes to the event. Contact lteague@greatlakes.org if you are interested.
2 years ago
PaisleyAnnHome says:
ooh interesting! the marketing materials are so different from renegade and the other indie craft markets. The design seems like it would appeal to the more snooty crowd. Which is a good thing.
2 years ago
adam says:
See you tomorrow, Chicago! I'm expecting some awesome OOAK action and something called "Italian Beef." Looking forward to it!
2 years ago
FashionTouch says:
Oh, I wish the show would be in Canada, I have to check if something similar happening here:)
2 years ago
floricultcha says:
Come to Boston!!!
2 years ago
especially4ubyEandT says:
Looks great!
2 years ago
xmittens says:
Not only am I excited about being one of the chosen artists, I can't wait to shop for all of the people on my gift list!
2 years ago
sharonclancydesigns says:
Looks like fun, wish I could be there!!!
2 years ago
alectonyx says:
i always love etsian articles they're always showing the best items ever. http://alectonyx.etsy.com Taking a break from custom made orders 12.07.09 so HURRY!
2 years ago
scarfandskirt says:
I think I will go, it looks fantastic.
2 years ago
carolynsartcrafts says:
I think Etsy should have a One-of-a-kind category. Although every handmade item is likely not identical to any other, I think there is a DIFFERENCE between one-of-a-kind and handmade - like one-of-a-kind has at least one or two major components different from any others of the same theme ( like Christmas, necklace, soap, etc.). I spend a lot of money and time getting supplies and designing items to be one-of-a-kind by the definition above. This would take some effort on Esty's part to monitor such a category but I for one would gladly pay an extra nickel for the distinction,
2 years ago
LaAlicia says:
wish I could be there too!
2 years ago
bstrung says:
Nice. I wish I could go.
2 years ago
thebestvintage says:
Very Cool!
2 years ago
pileofstones says:
Incredible items and artisans, would love to be there.
2 years ago
tinyhearts says:
I can't wait! My fingers are numb from sewing so much inventory! Thank you Etsy, thank you thank you!
2 years ago
dolangeiman says:
Hello everyone: We have just about every work posted in our Etsy shop available for sale in our booth at the OOAK show. Find us in booth 5053, in the front row when exiting the elevators. We're thrilled to see the partnership between Etsy and the OOAK show!
2 years ago
mytangerinedream says:
Vintage clothes don't get enough promotion I agree with the way you make me feel.They just don't make things like they use to.
2 years ago
Bluebrooch says:
The most beautiful things!!
2 years ago
BellaPuzzles says:
Fantastic and lovely items. When will there be a OOAK show out here on the West Coast?
2 years ago
zipartist says:
Such a great way to show the artisan talent of so many people....I have a very interesting and unique talent...I love making something out of the throw away of other, or used, or broken items as well.....recycling to me is such a natural thing....so do check out my brooches and pendants that I make from recycled zippers, both vintage metal and nylon, and gently used jewelry. I would love to see you bring something like this to the bay area of California...I would also enjoy helping to participate in this happening.... www.zipartist.etsy.com Thank you Etsy for giving me the chance to continue my life in following my passion, after retiring....and sharing the OOAK show.....
2 years ago
TreeHuggerStudio says:
I wish I was going we need a OOAK show in Indianapolis!
2 years ago
lilipadcreations says:
yay!! this is awesome! thanks! Chicago was amazing, what a great show, sooooo looking forward to the first NYC ooak! whoooot!
2 years ago
nappingcat says:
I want to live there when I grow up! Any one in Southern Oregon wanna start one of our own?
2 years ago