Interview « Make It

Make It is devoted to creating positive opportunities for artists, crafters and designers. On the flip side, Make It is a shopping event that gives enlightened shoppers the opportunity to buy unique, ethically made goods from top artisans from all over Canada. The vibe at the show is funky, hip and modern very different from you traditional granny craft show! Music is spun by top local DJs and there are always tasty treats to be enjoyed. Make It is about appreciating creativity, connecting entrepreneurs, and giving conscious shoppers an alternative to the mall.

The inspiration for Make It occurred when designer Jenna Herbut (www.bootyflybags.com) and her brother Chandler Herbut (www.oleoriginals.com) found it hard to persuade friends to come visit them at traditional craft fairs. Doilies, pinecone art and pressed flower bookmarks were not their cup of tea and they felt that if the shows were more fun and exciting it would be easier to get peers to stop by. Jenna and Chandler knew the importance of branding and positioning so they decided to give the typical craft show a much needed marketing makeover!

Interview

What do you make?

Jenna: I design a line of bags called Bootyfly Bags as well as No Bunch or Slide Headbands (No BS!) I recently took up knitting but the only things I can make are rad scarves! I love them but I am not sure if they are ready for resale yet.

Chandler: When I’m not busy with Make It I work on my designs for my clothing company called Ole Originals.

What do you like to buy that other people make?

Jenna: I love everything and anything handmade! Jewelry, clothing, accessories, art…you name it! Cookies and cupcakes are pretty high on my list too. Giving handmade gifts is awesome and I always stock up for the holidays.

Chandler: I always spend sometime shopping at our shows. There are so amazing handmade items, which makes it very easy to find gifts or something for myself.

What do you do at Make It?

Jenna: I deal with exhibitors relations, which is the most rewarding job EVER! Everyone I work with is so cool, positive and creative and it is very rewarding. I also am the PR girl which means I hound the press so we get stories written about Make It. It is so great to get amazing exhibitors all the press they deserve.

Chandler: I deal with our promotional material, website and sponsors.

What is it like working with your brother/sister?

Jenna: Working with Chandler is pretty delightful most of the time. Since we are siblings there is no “beating around the bush” so we are very frank and blunt with each other. This is really efficient for business because we don’t have to worry about sugar coating anything. Big time saver!

Chandler: We work well together. She’s the dreamer and has a million ideas. I’m the realist and handle the details.

Who is older?

Jenna: I am 2.5 years older even thought I look WAY younger! You can tell I am older not by appearance but by maturity and intelligence.

Chandler: I’m actually younger than Jenna, but people always think I’m older! I think it’s because I’m so mature… or maybe I’m just aging prematurely.

Who is bossier?

Jenna: Chandler is more detail oriented and I am the big dreamer. Sometimes Chandler gets frustrated with me but then he remembers that I can still beat him up so he watches his mouth!

Chandler: We’re booth pretty laid-back, we both have our bossy moments, but generally a low stress environment in the office.

What makes you laugh?

Jenna: Really dumb, immature things like fart jokes. I have the sense of humor of an 8 year old.

Chandler: Many things make me laugh. I like to have a good time and enjoy myself.

What makes you happy?

Jenna: My family, good friends, yummy food, wine, kittens, sunshine, the beach, reading, biking and travel. Simple pleasures in general. Make It makes me happy too.

Chandler: Being free and enjoying what I do. I also love to spend time with the fam and friends.

If you could “make it” with anyone who would it be?

Jenna: Craft show dudes!

Chandler: Craft show babes!