In our opinion, it’s the unexpected gifts that make the biggest impression. The ones that are handmade; the ones that are from the heart; the ones that tell a story. Buying local and handcrafted is rewarding for the gift-giver, the recipient, and the maker.
When you walk into a store like This & That Craft Mill in Genesee Depot, you can find a plethora of handmade gift ideas. You are sure to find something unique for everyone on your list. Susan, the owner, has always had a passion for crafting and all things “DIY.” Her passion turned into a dream of creating a place where local artisans could showcase their work, and friends could gather to craft and learn about other types of media. This dream became a reality when Susan opened This & That Craft Mill in 2015 in The Old Mill building. The Old Mill is rich in history, and makes for a great backdrop for featuring The Mill’s 45+ artists.
Joining Susan, Nicole came to This & That Craft Mill as a vendor making “Smittens” (sweater mittens) in the winter of 2017-2018. When the season changed into spring Nicole noticed an increase of customers inquiring about refinished furniture. The demand for refinished furniture became so great, that when the opportunity to take on the building directly in front of The Old Mill (on HWY 83, previously Body Engineering and The Pink Shopping Bag) became an option, Susan and Nicole couldn’t say no! Nicole’s unique style and passion as a maker is evident in her furniture pieces located in the newly opened building. With the recent addition of the second building, Susan and Nicole have continued to build their team to include others with experience in merchandising and staging.
In addition to the fascinating and well-organized retail locations, this duo also hosts many fun events for the community. This holiday, be sure to check out:
- This weekend is The Mills 3rd Anniversary check out their event here.
- Don’t Forget Small Business Saturday! This is a huge day for small businesses you can read more about The Mills event here.
Visit their website for more events.
The Mill also features how to classes, such as crocheting and sewing and furniture painting classes. This would be a great gift for a love one too this holiday.
Happy Holiday Shopping Fellow Junkers,
Tara and Becca
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The UpCycle Girls – Tara Badertscher and Rebecca Dankert
Tara and Becca – Two Midwestern mamas with a passion for flea markets and dusty gold. Tara has over 15 years experience in woodworking and antique restoration, and Becca has a bachelor’s degree in interior architecture and over 10 years experience in the field of design. Together, they are the dynamic duo known as The UpCycle Girls! They thoroughly enjoy all things old and rusty, and are always in search of their next great find in America’s beautiful dairyland. Their mission focuses on bringing new life to old household items by flipping them into decorating staples or statement pieces. Additionally, they work to recognize sustainability by keeping unwanted furniture and decor out of landfills through the practice of repurposing and upcycling. Between the two of them, Tara and Becca have six kids, 4 dogs, 7 chickens and a fish (and are hoping to add more!)! They are busy wives and mamas who love doing almost anything outdoors, drinking strong coffee, traveling to new places, listening good country music, and junking until their nail polish chips off! // Website, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest
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