Farmington’s Young Entrepreneurs Shine at Craft Shows
Farmington is buzzing with excitement as the community gears up for its beloved annual craft shows! These events aren’t just perfect for picking up unique handmade gifts; they’re also a fantastic opportunity for young entrepreneurs to take their first steps into the business world.
The Craft Show Phenomenon
At the heart of this thriving initiative are two major craft shows organized by Farmington Public Schools: ‘A Very Merry Marketplace’ at Lanigan Elementary and the ‘Let It Snow Craft Show’ at East Middle School. The East Middle School craft show took place on November 23, while the exhilarating Lanigan show is just around the corner on December 14. These showcases have become a staple in the community, promoting local creators and budding young business minds alike.
A Mom’s Inspiration
The idea to include student vendors was sparked by Debby Kuna, a passionate mother and educator. President of the East Middle School PTSA and vice president of the Lanigan Elementary PTA, Debby’s own son Dylan expressed an earnest wish to sell his artwork at school. Recognizing this golden opportunity, she decided to create a platform where other young creators could also shine.
Debby explained, “My son is like a little entrepreneur. When he was about 7, he had some stuff he wanted to sell. So, I thought if my son’s doing it, I should open it up to other kids, and that’s how it all began.” What started with just three young vendors has now blossomed into a phenomenal opportunity for 13 student-driven businesses this year!
Creative Spirits at Work
From handmade jewelry to quirky art pieces and even 3D-printed toys, the variety of items offered by these young crafters is astounding. Dylan Kuna, now 14, says, “I really like the sense of community, and it’s a friendly place to sell my art.” His creativity has flourished, recently enabling him to purchase a $1,200 laser cutter, allowing him to create stunning wooden art.
Young crafters like 11-year-old Beckett Schimmele are jumping into the fun too! Inspired by her aunts, she crafts colorful crocheted items, slime, and squishies, all while setting daily goals for her creations. “It’s kind of just relaxing, and I can do it really quickly,” she shares, clearly loving every moment of her newfound hobby.
Siblings on a Craft Adventure
It’s not just individuals showing off their talents; siblings Lillian and William Evans are showcasing their skills side by side. Lillian enjoys crafting handmade scrunchies and earrings while William has developed a knack for sewing key fobs and headbands. “It’s a great experience for them to be involved in the community,” their father proudly states, emphasizing the valuable life skills his children are gaining through this opportunity.
Inclusive Participation
This year, the initiative has expanded even further, welcoming students with special needs from the Farmington Public Schools Visions Unlimited program. It’s clear that the impact of these craft shows goes beyond just sales; it’s about building confidence and fostering a sense of pride in one’s work. As paraprofessional Dara Weber puts it, “They are extremely proud of what they do. It’s hard to describe how fulfilling it is for them to sell their creations.”
Get Involved!
If you want to support these talented young crafters, mark your calendars for the Lanigan craft show on December 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lanigan Elementary, located at 23800 Tuck Road. Admission is free, so bring your friends and family to show your support!
Additionally, students from the Visions Unlimited program will be hosting their “Buddy Shop” at the Farmington Public Library on December 17, offering yet another chance to buy unique handmade goods. Their products can also be viewed and purchased online at a dedicated storefront.
Looking Ahead
The passionate efforts of Debby Kuna and her team surely set the stage for more young entrepreneurs in the future. If you’re interested in learning more about student participation for next year’s craft shows, don’t hesitate to reach out to Debby Kuna via email. With a community that supports creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and the drive to succeed, the future looks bright for Farmington’s young crafters!
