A local artisan-driven event is redefining holiday shopping in Chautauqua County
When the holiday season rolls around, many of us instinctively think of crowded stores, big-box aisles, and endless checkout lines. But for those who want a more meaningful shopping experience this year, Blue Dragonfly Boutique is offering a refreshing alternative: the 2nd Annual Small Business Saturday Craft & Artisan Show at Busti Church of God on November 29th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event isn’t just about buying gifts; it’s about connecting with the people behind the handmade items, supporting local businesses, and strengthening the community.
The show was born from a simple idea: to create a space where artisans without brick-and-mortar stores could showcase their work on Small Business Saturday. Jennifer Nelson, owner of Blue Dragonfly Boutique, leaped at the chance to create that space. “As a local artisan without a store of my own, I wanted to participate in an event that celebrated makers like me,” she said. “When I discovered there wasn’t one in our area, and with encouragement from fellow crafters, I decided to host it myself.”
Since its first edition, the event has grown. This year, attendees can look forward to 30 vendors and local makers offering a wide variety of handcrafted goods from jewelry, candles, and wood crafts to laser-engraved boards and handmade cards. Jennifer and her team are also excited to add a few new touches: local food truck The Best of Buffalo by Bryon will provide lunch and snack options, the church kitchen will be serving goodies, and a canned food donation drive will benefit the Busti Church of God food pantry. “Collecting donations is a small way to thank the church for letting us use their space while helping families in need,” Jennifer explained. “We’ve even added a prize package incentive for shoppers who participate, putting together gifts from local small businesses to encourage giving back.”
One particularly special addition this year is the presence of the Busti Church of God’s missions team, which supports outreach work in Uganda. Their booth will feature handcrafted items that not only showcase international artistry but also help fund future trips and projects. “Events like this do more than just facilitate sales,” Jennifer said. “They help build relationships between local makers and the community, and they remind everyone why shopping small matters.”
For first-time visitors, the venue is wheelchair accessible and offers ample parking. Jennifer recommends arriving with plenty of time to explore the diverse booths and enjoy some of the food options that are available. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind gifts or just soaking in the festive, local atmosphere, the day promises something for everyone.
Looking forward, Jennifer hopes to expand the event even further. A children’s area could be added in future editions, giving kids a chance to try their hands at crafts or find special gifts for family members. “I love seeing the community come together around small businesses and handmade items,” she shared. “Every year, we learn more about what shoppers and makers want, and we look forward to building on that.”
The 2nd Annual Small Business Saturday Craft & Artisan Show is more than a shopping event; it’s a celebration of creativity, generosity, and community. If you’re ready to shop small, support local makers, and make an impact this holiday season, mark your calendar for November 29th at Busti Church of God. Come for the handcrafted goods, the food, the festive atmosphere, and leave knowing you’ve contributed to a stronger, more connected community.
Make sure you are following My CHQ & Blue Dragonfly Boutique NY on social media! We will be announcing some giveaways and letting you know what vendors you can expect to see as the event gets closer!