Elizabeth McDowell of Hippiemama Bath & Beauty
CULLMAN – The Vinemont Band Boosters held their annual Arts & Crafts Sale Friday and Saturday, and more than 60 vendors from across the state of Alabama participated, featuring unique gifts and handmade items. The Vinemont Band Boosters use this sale as a fundraiser for the Vinemont High School Band; many people in the community, however, see it as an excellent way to get a head start on holiday shopping.
One such member of the community was Tori Partridge who was shopping with her mother. Partridge particularly enjoyed the uniqueness of what was offered by the various vendors.
“I love local stuff and a lot of them are vegan friendly,” said Partridge. “I think it’s a pretty good turnout, which is great because we have to support local businesses. It’s also helping out Vinemont’s band which is great too.”
Subjectively, one of the most unique vendors of the sale was Elizabeth McDowell of Cullman. She participated in the fair both days representing her small business, Hippiemama Bath & Beauty. She featured all-natural, vegan soap and bath and beauty products, wooing many potential customers as they walked by.
“People are becoming more knowledgeable about their products and are becoming more savvy when it comes to reading labels,” said McDowell. “After getting to meet a bunch of people in town, it seems that everybody is becoming green conscious. Cullman is really a neat place to live.” McDowell does not have a brick and mortar storefront; however, she shared that she is trying to get her products into some shops around town.
Jo Ellen Pair, of Vinemont, was one of the Vinemont Band Booster Club members who helped run the show.
“All of the band booster officers and their spouses, senior members and upper-class band members are volunteering,” stated Pair. “This is our largest fundraiser of the year and the funds go to the general fund of the band to purchase new uniforms,”
Pair says she expects the band to raise anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500 this year, both from the vendors renting booths and from selling concessions to members of the community; however, she acknowledges that some years are better than others.
Pair expressed her and the Vinemont Band Booster Club’s gratitude toward the vendors.
“Some have already registered for next year… they’re fabulous. The community coming in and shopping for is what we depend on each year,” said Pair.
For more information about Hippiemama Bath & Beauty, visit https://www.facebook.com/hippiemamasoap.
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