by Noella Noelophile®
(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)
Okay–so we did just start the workweek.
But that’s no reason not to look forward to this weekend–when Artisanal L.A. is all set to tempt you!.
Artisanal L.A‘s Spring show starts at 11 this upcoming Saturday morning, April 9th, and runs through 6:00 Sunday evening, April 10th, at The Reef in downtown Los Angeles. There will be more than 150 makers onsite.
If you haven’t attended an Artisanal L.A. show before, the term, “foodie’s dream” barely covers it.
Vendors are local artisans who whip up small batches of some of the most delectable specialties we’ve ever tasted. But–as you’ll see in this picture from the Fall 2013 show–they don’t just let you look at their creations. They’re giving out samples! 
(If Coldwater Canyon Provisions offers you a taste of their preserves–or anything else–you might want to say “yes”. Rondo Mieczkowski handcrafts these from family recipes, and our Thanksgiving guests couldn’t stop raving about his dill pickles, last year!)
However, the food is only the beginning.
Artisanal L.A. is a celebration, pure and simple, of makers of all kinds–bakers, gardeners, craftspeople. They have ongoing workshops on organic farming, cooking and crafts–which sometimes present a real challenge, as a number of interesting events are all going on at the same time! 
Artisanal L.A.’s 2016 Spring show schedule includes DIY workshops on leatherworking, making caramels and chocolate, mini loom weaving and gardening (there’s a Saturday class on “drought or no drought” tree care!).
Meanwhile, the kids will have a great time, courtesy of Barnsdall Art Center. They’re offering a series of kids’ crafts, both days. (Tissue-paper flowers, pretty pendants and make-your-own greeting cards are just three of them–just in time for Mother’s Day! Here’s the link for registration information.)
(Graphic courtesy of Artisanal L.A., and used with permission.)
Among the makers you’ll get to see at Artisanal L.A.’s Spring show? I seriously love the sparkly creations and gorgeous silver-and-gold silhouettes from Mei Elizabeth’s philanthropic jewelry design company. (Even better, sales support a great cause, as you’ll read on her website.) Goat Rodeo’s goat-milk soap looks intriguing, with scents like “cilantro lime” and “lavender mint”. Also, those unique-textile chairs and accessories, created by Folk Project, manage to be striking, whimsical and welcoming, all at once.
And you’ll be maaaaad about the cute baby goats! (Sorry–couldn’t resist.) You’ll get to see them, both days, courtesy of The Sanctuary at Soledad. Again, another great cause: they’re both a farm and an animal rescue, with a strict no-kill policy.
Great food, talented makers, DIY workshops–and a chance to hear singer/songwriter Katie Ferrara perform on Sunday afternoon at 2, in the Copa Vida Coffee Lounge. Can a weekend event possibly get any better?
Well, in Artisanal L.A.’s case–yes. Pre-sale admission tickets are available online, at a discount!