Bloom & Craft: March at Blue Ridge March brings the first hints of spring—and with it, a renewed sense of creativity, connection, and community. At Blue Ridge, we believe every handmade piece carries a story, and every market is a place where makers and neighbors come together to celebrate the spirit of craftsmanship.
As we prepare for our Easter Festival Artisan Market on March 27–28, we’re excited to gather once again with talented artisans, wonderful food vendors, and a community that believes in supporting local and celebrating handmade.
In this month’s newsletter, you’ll meet inspiring makers, discover local flavors, and learn about the people and organizations making a difference in our region.
Thank you for being part of the Blue Ridge community—we can’t wait to see you at the market. 🌿 |
  | Meet the Maker:
Byers Pottery Simply Beautiful, Useful Pots!
At Blue Ridge, we’re passionate about connecting our community with artisans whose work brings joy, beauty, and purpose into everyday life. This month, we’re thrilled to highlight Will from Byers Pottery, whose creations are truly Beautiful Works from the Earth.
Each piece is completely handmade, whether thrown on the potter’s wheel or carefully built from slabs. Every mug, bowl, vase, or serving dish reflects Will’s philosophy of creating usable art—pottery that isn’t just decorative, but designed to be enjoyed and cherished for years. With meticulous attention to detail and unique glazes, no two pieces are ever alike.
Byers Pottery embodies the elemental forces of Earth, Water, Fire, and Soul, transforming natural materials into functional art that invites connection and mindfulness. From the warmth of a morning coffee to the elegance of a shared meal, these works bring beauty into the rhythm of everyday life.
For those who value craftsmanship, sustainability, and the story behind each creation, Will’s pots are more than objects—they are tangible pieces of an artisan’s heart and vision. Discover how simple materials, transformed by skill and passion, become enduring works that elevate both your home and your daily rituals. |
Flavor of the Month:
Dabble Design & Desserts If there’s one thing Dabble Design & Desserts does best, it’s creating fresh, homemade treats that bring joy to every occasion. From canned goods with fruit from their garden to delicious desserts, this talented maker offers something special for every season and celebration.
Whether you’re planning a baby or wedding shower, birthday party, or a cozy gathering, Dabble Design & Desserts provides personalized catering that turns any event into a sweet, memorable experience. Their seasonal creations are not to be missed—chocolate Easter eggs, tree stump cakes for the holidays, and fruit-forward treats that celebrate the flavors of the season are just a few examples of their craft.
Every dessert and treat is made with care, using fresh, high-quality ingredients, making each bite a celebration in itself. Dabble Design & Desserts proves that the way to the heart is through thoughtfully made, irresistible sweets—and they’re proud to share that with the Blue Ridge community. |   |
  | Note-Worthy Non-Profit:
Lamplight Theatre
Bringing Faith to the Stage
Nestled in the heart of Kingsport, Lamplight Theatre has been lighting the way for Christian entertainment and inspiration since 2005. Founded by Billy Wayne Arrington through Vision Productions, Inc., the theatre’s mission is simple but powerful: to see people come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior and to encourage fellow believers in a deeper walk of faith.
Originally located on a hill in Fall Branch, TN, Lamplight Theatre quickly became a hub for quality Christian entertainment. Through original songs and plays, Billy Wayne and the Vision Productions team offered performances that inspired, uplifted, and entertained the community. As the audience grew, so did the theatre’s vision. In 2013, Lamplight Theatre relocated to the historic Strand Theater in downtown Kingsport—a building with a rich history dating back to 1925, and the first movie theater in the city.
The move downtown allowed Lamplight Theatre to expand its impact. In 2014, the theatre further grew with the purchase of The Emporium, now home to the theatre’s Gift Shoppe, Backstage Coffee Company, and banquet hall. This expansion has transformed Lamplight Theatre into a vibrant center for community events, performance arts, and faith-based gatherings.
Through concerts, theatrical productions, retreats, and outreach events, Lamplight Theatre continues to share a message of hope, faith, and inspiration, offering a space where both believers and seekers can experience the joy of Christian arts in a welcoming environment.
Whether attending a play, enjoying a coffee backstage, or browsing the gift shop, visitors can feel the heart of Lamplight Theatre: a place where creativity meets faith, and every performance points to a greater story. |
 | Sponsor Spotlight:
Renewal by Andersen Supporting Our Community, One Home at a Time
Renewal by Andersen isn’t just about beautiful, durable, custom-crafted windows and doors—they’re also committed to giving back to the community. That’s why they proudly sponsor Blue Ridge Artisan Days, supporting local makers, artisans, and the vibrant culture of our region.
They offer Acclaim® Replacement Windows, Andersen® Patio Doors, and Ensemble® Entry Doors, all designed for style, durability, and low-maintenance performance. From brightening your home with natural light to creating welcoming entryways, their products combine functionality with timeless beauty.
By sponsoring Blue Ridge Artisan Days, Renewal by Andersen helps strengthen the community while showcasing their commitment to quality and craftsmanship—one artisan and one home at a time. |
Pet of the month: Lumos Lumos: Queen of Sass and Snuggles
Anyone remember The Aristocats? You know, the sassy little white kitten with the pink bow named Marie? That has to be Lumos’ role model, because if you looked up “sassy” in the dictionary, there’d be her picture right next to it.
Lumos and her siblings were found as kittens hiding in the engine of a car after their mother didn’t survive. While all the other kittens were adopted quickly, no one wanted the little white one with green eyes—people assumed she was deaf, which can happen in white cats with blue or green eyes. Lumos was given a home alongside her new big brothers, Pumpkin Juice and Nox, and was given a special name to match her unique personality.
Although Lumos wasn’t deaf, she faced serious health challenges as a young kitten and nearly didn’t survive. With attentive care, she recovered fully and has thrived ever since. She has become glued to Amanda, her person, earning the affectionate nickname “barnacle baby.”
Lumos truly lives like the princess she is. She wears a pearl collar with a shiny star tag, sleeps on her own purple pillow with her personal blanket, and even enjoys “talking” on the phone. She has a special collection of toy birds that are hers alone, wags her tail like a little greeting flag, and one of her purrs even sounds like the coo of a dove. She’s also the undisputed queen of side-eye, faceplants, and burrowing into blankets—because supervising the household while looking this pretty is hard work!
Every day with Lumos is a reminder that resilience, personality, and a little sass can brighten any home. Click to submit your pet to be next! |
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Don't miss what's coming up next! |
 Blue Ridge Artisan Days Easter Festival |  Johnson City April 25th |  National Street Rod May 8-9
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