By Kathy Oswalt-Forsythe
The lights shine from the storefront at 105 South Main Street in Vicksburg on many Tuesday evenings for “Not Your Typical Tuesday” events. Workshop attendees learn a new skill, ask questions, and enjoy conversation. The experiences have been well-received. The response has been so positive some participants sign up for every gathering.
When Kim Critz, owner of Wrapped in Gratitude, and Tory Hollister, owner of Oopsy Daisy, decided to combine their businesses into one shared space, they decided promoting self-care and caring for others was a top priority. Workshops and bringing people together to connect with one another was one of the ways they wanted to use their retail space.
Critz and Hollister are trained artists. Hollister is a glass blower, floral designer, and skilled gardener. Critz is a watercolor and acrylic painter and a mixed media artist. Both women have found a sense of peace through creating and sharing their knowledge and unique skills with others.
No art experience is necessary to attend the “Not Your Typical Tuesday” workshops. All materials are included with the class fee and easy steps are planned to guide students through the event. Most workshops are one to two hours long.
These weekly events began in the fall. The topics have been varied and have included activities like glass ornament painting, hoop wreath making, mixed media journaling, and even instruction in food fermentation.
Critz and Hollister say they are planning events which will continue through the winter. They are developing several virtual events and even inviting some guest instructors.
“Not Your Typical Tuesday” workshops run in different ways, depending on the project. Some events are open 3-7 p.m. on Tuesdays, and people can stop in any time to create with no preregistration necessary. For other events where materials are limited, Critz and Hollister request people register ahead of time to guarantee enough materials for all. The type of workshop will be indicated within the event information. All are welcome, but most workshops are recommended for ages 13 and up.
More information can be found on Facebook and Instagram @Wrapped in Gratitude and @Oopsy Daisy Floral including links to register. Following these pages will help connect to the events.
Another option for information is at wrappedingratitude.com where interested people can enter an email address to receive upcoming events and sign-up links.
Critz and Hollister also schedule private or group events. Questions? Critz can be reached through email at hello@WrappedinGratitude.com and Hollister at flowers@OopsyDaisyFloral.com.