According to Hansen, most artisans and small businesses who are involved with Made In Vancouver do not know how to market, advertise, or where to sell; all services she can provide.
“I am just now starting to get a clear idea of what [artisans] need, and it’s education,” Hansen said.
Hansen has already coordinated workshops on social media, product photos and other topics to help get her members started.
“I would like this to turn into a situation where I’m almost like an [advertising] agent for artisans,” she said.
Hansen is currently running the organization primarily by herself, but is always searching for volunteers to help improve the events and opportunities provided for artisans. Thus far, she has enjoyed strong volunteer support from Kelli Rinta of Squishy-Cute Designs and Cyndi Hughes of Hammered & Chained.
The Portland-born entrepreneur’s next big event for local artisans is the Loyal Local Summer Event being held at the Vancouver Hilton’s Ballroom on August 4. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., artists and craftsmen will display and sell their products, as well as to connect with one another.
Hansen recently doubled-down on her investment for the event, renting twice as much space as she originally intended. She expects to fill the entire area with artisans and businesses, and hopes to open up a section to local small business owners.
“It was a risk, but I think it’ll pay off,” she said.
Artisans and businesses can register for the event at www.madeinvancouver-usa.com.
Currently, there is no permanent physical location where Made In Vancouver members sell their goods, though Hansen said she is eagerly looking to remedy that.
“After Loyal Local, we will start focusing on the holidays, and getting a storefront. That’s my goal,” she said.
With the ‘buy local’ movement continuing to pick up steam, Hansen believes now is the time for artisans to thrive.
“I think everyone’s primed, everyone’s excited – but everyone is going out separately,” she explained. “If we could gather everyone together, I think we would go so far.”
As for herself, Hansen said she is much happier now than she was before her skydiving resolution.
“So many people spend so much time doing what they hate, but I’m finding a way to get paid to do what I love,” she said.
Hansen concluded by saying she would like to say thank you to those who have helped get Made in Vancouver to where it is today, “and, to all the members who have participated and made the group what it is and what it will be,” she added.
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