The ALS Artisan Boutique
“It got so big so fast,” says Leslie Schwartz of the Artisan Boutique known for some of the best holiday shopping in Chesapeake Country.
From an artsy at-home fundraiser for a woman debilitated by Lou Gehrig’s disease, the ALS Artisan Boutique has gotten out of hand.
It quickly outgrew Schwartz’s house, finally landing at the Crowne Plaza hotel adjacent to Westfield Mall.
There this year, more than 55 regional artists show handcrafted jewelry, original children’s clothing and accessories, pottery, paintings and more. Illustrator Lisa McCue always shows up to sign her Corduroy series of children’s books.
Plus, new this year, free hands-on workshops. Make a handmade centerpiece or wreath with Michael Designs Florist; decorate treats with LS Cake Pops; create unique giftwrap with Paper in the Park; or learn how to style your little black dress for the holidays.
That signature magic wand will reappear, this year as stationery, in Nancy Wright’s memory.
“We made Nancy a magic wand when she was sick. She loved it so much, that she clung to it even as she was dying,” Schwartz explains.”
In 14 years, the memorial has raised over $300,000. “Everything we raise goes directly to patient care in our region,” Schwartz says.
“I love this chance to meet new people and hear the stories about how ALS affected their families. Almost everyone has someone close to them with a story. Unless a cure is found, over 300,000 Americans living today will die from ALS.”
That’s why the ALS Artisan Boutique keeps going, growing and giving.