Looking for some spectacular handmade merchandise or gifts? Maybe wanting to start up an art…read morecollection of originals or find new artists? I.C.E. seems to have it covered.
Walking around and getting my brief looksie at all the vendors for I.C.E. shopping spectacular 2015 I was barely able to hold onto my money... First off, I wanted all the succulents and plants and cool looking tapestries, and don't get me started on unique art pieces. But yeah, gorgeous terrariums. Ugh.
The overall atmosphere of this place is indie and has a flair of nature, nostalgia, and bohemian dashed with pop and magic. At least that was what this Nov's collection of artists brought to the front. Couldn't get enough of that rustic look, and I'm not complaining.
It was first time ever being able to attend. I actually went as a vendor, so I'll kinda mention my experience on being both vendor and just looking around.
Vending at this show was really fun. The people, the vendors, they all were generally very friendly. Staff had free coffee for vendors setting up Sat. morning, and free cocoa to vendors and attendees (til it ran out.) The coffee was okay. It was brought in by a small coffee shop, but by far, I enjoyed the free sampling of cocoa. Haha. It's the small things, no?
Food wise, they had Yumbii, Doggy Dogg, falafels & gyros, and then there were cookies from Dough Re Mi, and caramel cotton candy. My biggest grip is all these events don't really have much for the non-alcoholic beverage lover. Sunday, was a bit desperate as the coffee vendor from before was not there and replaced with something more Spartan. There was a Kombucha vendor which was nice, but it'd have been nicer to have some specialty teas or drinks that were non-alcoholic at the event.
The organizers really out do themselves with all the attention to detail. I originally was a little worried about the layout of the venue since the floor is split in two where a small group of vendors are placed in the garden room and then the majority of vendors are in the more industrial room. I was really worried everyone would flock to the larger room upon entering, but thought it was really cool how they have the ticket booth set in an "L" shape to funnel visitors into the garden room. It's these little things. Been to a lot of shows that just seem to throw you to the wolves -- i.e. selling you a table at the back of the show floor facing a fire exit. What? So yes, big kudos to just how organized everything was.The venue, Georgia Freight Depot, was really nice too!
I did end up purchasing a thing or two, and extremely happy with them. Met some amazing artists and crafters and in general had a great time.
I highly recommend a visit to I.C.E. if you're looking for any gifts or handcrafted goodies & art. The entry is $5 and as long as it's at the GA. Freight Depot you can find parking at The Underground parking garage for $3 All Day.
