Deluxe Indie Craft Bazaar: Sara Cowan
Photo by Samantha Lamb
Ladies and gentlemen, now for the full story from one of the organizers of Deluxe: Sara Cowan.
Q: Tell me about the beginning of Deluxe.
A: Our first show was in 2008, and many of our artists have come back every time. Shoppers have come to expect a certain aesthetic and selection from Deluxe, and we work hard to anticipate their needs and yet keep them excited to shop with us.
Q: How many artists and nonprofits will you have this year?
We have 72 artists, 12 nonprofits and 6 community groups this year, plus 2 theater groups, 3 musical performers and one caricature artist specializing in cyclops portraits. Our blog has profiles of most of these artists and groups.
Q: Explain why the charity side is so important to you – both the donation part and the free nonprofit booths.
A: We want to promote participation in our community – not just as shoppers and supporters of small businesses, but as volunteers and donors. There are so many great things going on in Oklahoma City, we each just need to find our perfect volunteer opportunities with a group that shares our values.
Q: How did you pick ProjectOKC this year?
A: ProjectOKC is such a great concept – organize small scale service projects, recruit volunteers via social media from all parts of town, all faith communities, and let them choose how they want to serve their fellow Oklahomans. We see the potential for growth in this group and want to help them gain registered members and financial support. You can register online at ProjectOKC.com.
