Crackers About Christmas

After giving away tickets to Crackers about Christmas in November, I had to attend the event at the Waterside Arts Centre myself. After all, I’d had a glance at the list of stallholders and whilst I knew some, like the chaps from Lock 91 (looking terribly handsome below), there were lots I’ve only spoken to on Twitter. This was the perfect opportunity to meet them in person.

Top of my list of ‘must meets’ were MyroDoodles and Hannah of  My Craftea Day – especially as the latter had been hugely generous with help when I was frantically tracking down felt for the Manchester WI banner project.

I was blown away by the designs on the MyroDoodle stall – these hand-drawn items are all beautifully individual. I almost regretted our decision to donate to a food bank instead of buy Christmas cards. Thankfully all are on Etsy so I might pop on there for Mr GFB’s card (shh. No-one tell him).

My friend Katharine had suggested items from Artist on a Bike previously – particularly as Mr GFB is a cyclist and involved in various cycle projects across the city.

And I wasn’t disappointed – from framed art to cards, to keyrings (one bought to treat Mr GFB) her pieces are gorgeous and perfect for a cycle lover.

There were some very familiar faces too. The meaty goodies from The Moocher Foods and goodies of the ale kind from The Ale Man were on offer – proving particularly popular with the parents awaiting the arrival of Santa on his barge. (I could say something here about children driving you to drink. But as a non-parent, I won’t).

And speaking of children, they were very well catered for with gorgeous items from Baba+Boo and Parsnip & Bramble – giving me ideas for my newest cousin.

And even I can’t resist a pair of teeny booties or a cute sleepsuit.

I have to admit to being in awe of the chocolatey goodies from Choc’n’Roll. Their chocolate marshmallows knock the socks off those from the Christmas Markets in town (I have sampled both) and I have to admit to dropping a small hint to Mr GFB about the chocolate cats.

Though sadly I was too late for most of the goodies from Tiggy’s Brownies Co – these had been decimated. That’ll teach me.

I did, however, get to try some of the samples from MishMish Food whose meatballs saved me from rushing back over to Choc ‘n’ Roll and sampling more marshmallows. It was a close run thing.

And walking away after a couple of samples from The Marvellous Vodka Company was very very hard. One sip of the mint chocolate or the pear drop vodka and you’re hooked.

And I loved the idea behind The Lounge Gallery – let the gallery come to you, rather than you go to them – meaning you can look at the items in the comfort of your own home.

However, I soon began to run short of spending money. Not surprising really, given the pretty things on offer from Bell & Blue, KatePSews, MisHelenEous, Minimanna, Pat & Peg and Tree House Crafts. I began to eye the few pounds left balefully.

And despite wanting to buy a baking kit from Ivy Bell Baking Kits (I tried a sample), talking running with the ladies from GLEAM Jewellery, ogling paper craft from Re-Papered and chatting Vintage Manchester with Sarah & David Ward, I finally made a decision and stopped at Olive & Rose.

Rather selfishly I selected a sample of their face cream to try at home, perfect for helping my skin in the cold weather.

It was a fabulous day, with lots of local suppliers on hand and well done to 4 Manchester Women for arranging such a brilliant event.

And don’t worry if you missed out on the day. Most of the suppliers have online shops or details of where they’ll be next on their Facebook pages. In a year where we’re all feeling the pinch, what better time of year to shop local?