Megan Green wants you to shop local and make new friends. And she’s offering it by means of the Craft Caravan, an afternoon tour where attendees board the Bexley Beat and enjoy snacks, swag, and cocktails during the ride. It’s like an ultimate Uber ride!
The idea for Craft Caravan was developed during the Midwest Craft Con that Green brought back last February with the help of a couple of friends. Billed as a ‘retreat for mid-career crafters, makers and creative business owners,’ the event brought together 200 people from all around Ohio and neighboring states. As an bonus opportunity, Green wanted to provide an easy way for conference goers to experience Columbus’ collection of unique shops and seasoned crafty businesspeople.
“While we had local shops set up in a trade show format at the conference it still wouldn’t offer the experience of stepping into a local shop like Wholly Craft,” she says. “Or viewing the machinery in action at a facility like Igloo Letterpress. We had 22 passengers participating and one local tour guide on our maiden voyage. Everyone loved the experience and for those with a seat it offered up a unique ride share experience and created a instant bond.”
The Craft Caravan makes its return this Saturday, October 15, this time with a focus on a unique shopping experience for those local to Columbus.
Those on the ride will receive customized experiences and special discount offers at Igloo Letterpress, Yarn It & Haberdashery, Robert Mason Co., and The Smithery. And expect colorful commentary from tour guides Green and Mallory Theiss of Mallory Hill Designs.
The bus will be stocked with snacks from Pattycake Bakery and Brezel Pretzels. Fall inspired cocktails by Middle West Spirits are also included, two passengers will win tickets for a distillery tour, and everyone will receive a Craftin’ Outlaws styled swag bag.
“I just love promoting our DIY community,” says Green. She sees the tour as a way to give back to small businesses that are often asked to sponsor events, or provide items for raffles. “What’s nice about this concept is we can take you from Worthington to the Short North to Bexley and experience the charm of all these neighborhoods as well. All while not fighting for a parking space.”
Tickets to the Craft Caravan are $65. The Craft Caravan is Saturday, October 15, from 11am-3pm. More tours are planned for the holidays. Find more information and tickets.
Photos courtesy Chris Rutan Photography.