Artisan Market Makes Its Debut at RACE IN THE PARK on May 11

Local vendors and artisans from across the state will be participating in the first annual Artisan Market at the 2019 “RACE IN THE PARK.” The Connecticut Breast Health Initiative (CT BHI) hosts this annual event on Mother’s Day weekend in New Britain to raise money to advance education programs and breast cancer research in Connecticut.

Nearly a dozen artisans are expected, offering a range of items - including many hand-crafted - that are perfect for last minute Mother’s Day gift-giving. The Artisan Market adds another element to a day of family fun, remembrance and hope. The artisan’s will be on-site from 8:00 AM through 1:00 PM.

Registration of teams and individuals for the race is now underway, and continues through race day. This year’s even will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at Walnut Hill Park in New Britain. To register or pledge for this event, which includes a 5K run and 1 Mile Walk, 4 K Walk, and Kids’ Challenge, visit www.ctraceinthepark.org.

The RACE IN THE PARK brings statewide benefits. The money raised has funded grants provided to breast cancer research and education initiatives across the state. During the past 15 years, the annual Mother’s Day weekend event has provided grants to breast cancer researchers and educators totaling more than $3.75 million.

Local vendors participating in the 1st annual Artisan Market at the CT RACE IN THE PARK include:

• Black Orchid Skincare creates all natural and organic, plant-based skincare that is ethically sourced, responsibly created, and handcrafted in small batches in CT. Check out their soy candles as well made with phthalate-free fragrances and lead-free wicks.
• Clean Works Soap features handcrafted small batch soap made with luxury oils, plant butters, pure essential oils, fragrances, herbs, and spices. Enjoy being clean, fresh and moisturized using ingredients that are naturally-made instead of chemically produced.
• Cortney’s Dips and Sauces products are fresh, whole and minimally processed - bringing a new kind of dip & sauces to our customers that are as nutritious as they are delicious! Our one of a kind dip is made exclusively with cottage cheese making it high in protein, low in sugar and a great option for mindful snackers. You will never guess it's made with cottage cheese because of our secret blending process that makes this dip smooth and delicious.
• Home Prep Products naturally solve household challenges from cleaning to odors. All of our formulas use a unique proprietary blend of essential oils and have the 4 A's; anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-biotic! Eco-entrepreneur- Laurie Sylvia was inspired to develop home prep products in response to the need to create formulas that are non-toxic, all natural and hardworking solutions for the home.
• Rather Rustic Design offers unique, handcrafted rustic farmhouse signs. Hand painted signs available for the entire home including kitchens, nurseries, bedrooms, bathrooms, etc
• Southern Belle Products offers skin care, aromatherapy, paracord products, and survival essentials inspired by the great outdoors. We aspire to help you enjoy what Mother Nature offers us, both indoors and out, with fundamental tools for the mind and for the body. We always say yes to good for you materials and no to artificial ingredients. For the aromatherapy and body care products, that means no parabens, no synthetics, no preservatives, and no artificial colors or fragrances.
• Stitched by Michelle Kiley urges visitors to browse for bags and totes of many sizes and functions, combining a fondness of fabric and textures with an urge to create. Meeting the need for functional and still stylish. Handmade bags and totes of interesting fabrics with eye-catching linings; accessories featuring La Pochette - a clip-on pocket for phone and glasses. Clip to belt loop or bag straps and your phone is always handy; add a pretty key bob.

“RACE Day is not only about raising money for breast cancer research, it also supports the community of survivors and honors loved ones,” explained Joyce Bray, president of the CT BHI Board of Directors. “The entire community really comes together to support this wonderful family day. Every person who participates, every dollar donated, brings us closer to the next breakthrough and ultimately a cure. We’re excited about the addition of the Artisans Market, and the wonderful items they will be showcasing.”

Returning activities at the RACE IN THE PARK include a Silent Auction and Raffle in the Park, a flower sale, children’s activities including “Touch a Truck”, as well as a variety of food trucks throughout the day. For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.ctraceinthepark.org or www.ctbhi.org.

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