A Man's World

There is something inherently un-masculine about the typical holiday craft fair, and Stu and Nicky Alden of the design studio Ink Lounge Creative wanted to do something about it. And Holiday Mancraft, a gathering of local artisans and vendors selling an array of gifts made for men, by men, was...

By Bree Davies

December 5, 2013

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There is something inherently un-masculine about the typical holiday craft fair, and Stu and Nicky Alden of the design studio Ink Lounge Creative wanted to do something about it. And Holiday Mancraft, a gathering of local artisans and vendors selling an array of gifts made for men, by men, was their answer. "It came down to me being a guy who wanted to create a craft fair that I would want to go to," says Stu Alden, stressing that the maleness is all in fun — women are more than welcome to attend.

Now in its third year, the fair has grown from eleven merchants to more than forty, and they will be selling locally made jams, jewelry, personal-care products and more; shoppers will have a chance to peruse these wares and get to know the guys behind them. The first fifty Mancrafters through the door get a "man sack" swag bag, and prior to the event, fans following Holiday Mancraft on Facebook will get a opportunity to snag a "golden coaster" from a local bar for a super prize pack. Vendors, too, get a chance at prizes, with the Mucho Macho Stache-Off — a mustache contest that guests of the fair will vote on throughout the evening.

Holiday Mancraft runs from 4 to 10 p.m. at the VFW Post 2461, 1350 South Broadway. For more information, visit inkloungecreative.com or call 303-321-7101.
Fri., Dec. 6, 4-10 p.m., 2013

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Bree Davies is a multimedia journalist, artist advocate and community organizer born and raised in Denver. Rooted in the world of Do-It-Yourself arts and music, Davies co-founded Titwrench experimental music festival, is host of the local music and comedy show Sounds on 29th on CPT12 Colorado Public Television and is creator and host of the civic and social issue-focused podcast, Hello? Denver? Are You Still There? Her work is centered on a passionate advocacy for all ages, accessible, inclusive, non-commercial and autonomous DIY art spaces and music venues in Denver.

Contact: Bree Davies

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Twitter: @cocodavies