MINNEAPOLIS GIFT & ART EXPO

NOV 6-8, 2026 - MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

Who are you and what do you do?   

I’m Heather Boschke, the artist, author, and creator behind Little Birdie Buddies, a joyful world of hand-drawn birds created to help people connect with nature, themselves, and each other. I draw playful birds that are designed to spark joy, connection, and a sense of wonder. What started as a creative outlet during Covid lockdown has grown into a collection of children’s books, gift books, plushies, framed art, cards, mugs, and other gifts. Through my art, I hope to remind others of the simple beauty around us, the magic of paying attention, and the power of letting your own inner birdie shine.

How did you get started in your art / business?  

Little Birdie Buddies began with a sketchbook, pens, markers and a nudge I couldn’t ignore.

In 2021, I felt this quiet pull to draw again, even though I had no plan for it to become a business. Birds have always been my favorite animal, and my grandpa’s nickname for me was Heather Feather, so when I opened that first blank page, a bird was the first thing I drew.

That first little bird felt like returning to being a kid again. I kept drawing, the birds kept coming, and they become characters with names, personalities, and messages. At first, I simply started sharing my bird drawings, and people began asking if they could buy them as cards or prints or mugs. And then the idea of a children’s book started to grow in my heart.

In many ways, the business has grown the same way the birds did… organically, joyfully, and one small feather at a time.

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?  

My favorite moments are the ones where I get to see the joy on people’s faces when they look at my birds and connect with a little character I once drew in my sketchbook.

Sometimes people laugh because a bird’s personality reminds them of themselves. Sometimes they tell me a bird reminds them of someone they love. And sometimes they share a story about a real bird that showed up during an important moment in their life. Those moments have shown me that the birds are doing more than looking cute… they are help people feel joy, comfort, nostalgia, and connection.

The art may start with me, but the meaning grows when someone else sees themselves, their memories, or their heart in it.

Have you always been passionate about art and design?  

Yes, but I didn’t always make space for it. Drawing was something I loved deeply as a kid. It was how I played, imagined, and completely lost myself.

Then I grew up, got busy, built a career, and let that part of myself go quiet. I went 27 years without drawing before picking it back up again in 2021. What started as a creative outlet quickly became a reconnection to a part of myself I had been ignoring… and it quickly grew into Little Birdie Buddies.

What valuable experience/knowledge did you have before starting your art/business?  

Before starting Little Birdie Buddies, I spent more than 20 years in corporate marketing, helping businesses clarify their message, understand their audience, and build brands that connect with people. I’m also a marketing professor, so I’ve spent years teaching students how strategy, storytelling, positioning, and customer experience all work together.

What sets your designs apart from others?  

My work is hand-drawn and whimsical, but it is also rooted in real birds, nature, and the emotions people connect to them… joy, hope, comfort, confidence, belonging, and wonder.

Each bird is more than an illustration. It has a name, a personality, and a message. My goal is not just to create something cute, but to put little characters into the world that make people smile, feel seen, and remember the simple magic of nature. My mission is to spread joy one birdie at a time.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?  

The latest project I’ve been working on is Little Birdie Buddies of Hope, my newest book. It features birds that each carry a message of comfort, resilience, and light. This book is especially close to my heart because it explores the quiet ways hope finds us, especially during hard seasons.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

I’ll be bringing the full collection of Little Birdie Buddies items, including all six of the books, plush birds, greeting cards, prints, stickers, mugs, pins, magnets, and puzzles. Everything is created to bring a little more joy and nature-inspired connection into someone’s day.

www.littlebirdiebuddies.com

https://www.instagram.com/little.birdie.buddies/

https://www.facebook.com/littlebirdiebuddies/

https://www.youtube.com/@littlebirdiebuddies

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Sydney, and creativity is my middle name. I am a recent graduate from the College of Design at the University of Minnesota and am currently an Interior Designer at a local Minneapolis firm. So, if you can’t find me at the office in the materials library, you can find me at the local fabric store!

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?

My favorite moments are being able to see buyers’ faces light up when they see the final product. It's so fulfilling to know that all the hard work is worth it in the end.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?

I am working on expanding my selection of products to be embroidered, including sweatshirts.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

I will have dog bandanas and baby blankets, which are all able to be customized with my embroidery machine. The bandanas are embroidered on-site, so you can take home your custom bandana the same day!

Instagram: shop.otisandfriends

Website: https://shopotisandfriends.square.site/

Who are you and what do you do?
Dandelion Naturals is a Minnesota-based company specializing in handcrafted, all-natural soaps, skincare, and home products. We focus on creating high-quality, sustainable alternatives that promote healthy living and reduce environmental impact.

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?
One of our most rewarding moments has been expanding our reach from local markets to a growing network of retailers who share our commitment to clean, eco-conscious living. Seeing our products on store shelves and in customers’ homes across the region has been incredibly fulfilling.

What do your customers love most about your products?
Our customers appreciate the quality, simplicity, and integrity behind every product we make. They love that our soaps and skincare are crafted with natural, sustainable ingredients that are gentle on the skin and free from harsh chemicals. Many also value our clean aesthetic, eco-friendly packaging, and the consistent performance that makes Dandelion Naturals a trusted part of their daily routine.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?
We are currently developing a seasonal collection featuring limited-edition holiday soaps incorporating unique scent blends and festive packaging to enhance the gifting experience.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?
Attendees will find our full line of natural bar soaps, lotion bars, tallow balms, laundry soap, shampoo and conditioner bars, lip balms, shave bars, doggie shampoo bars, loofah bars, and medicinal salves, as well as our exclusive holiday collection designed specifically for the winter season.

Website: dandelionnaturals.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/dandelion.naturals/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/dandelionnaturals/

Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Rees Walther, and I’m the founder of Rocket Smoked Coffee and author of the novel Where There’s Smoke: A Texas Love Story. At Rocket Smoked Coffee, we do things a little differently. We work with a local roaster in Buffalo, MN who roasts our select, single-origin beans to our specifications — then we finish them with a delicate touch of smoke. The result is a smooth, sweet, and creamy coffee with a signature depth and no bitterness. We craft small-batch smoked coffee, offer seasonal flavors, and pair our products with storytelling and music for a full sensory experience.

How did you get started in your art/business?
After retiring from government service, I leaned into the things I love: family, barbecue, and coffee. One day, after loading ribs into the smoker, my wife joked, “Why don’t you just smoke your coffee too?” Challenge accepted. I experimented for months, going through tens of pounds of beans, until I perfected the process of adding just the right amount of smoke at the end of the roast — enhancing a beautifully roasted single-origin bean without overpowering it.

Similarly, my novel started with another challenge — also from my wife. She was tired of me spoiling her Hallmark movies by guessing the plot in the first five minutes, so she dared me to write one myself. What started as a joke turned into something deeply personal. Writing became a journey of self-healing as I worked through the grief of losing my mom. That emotional thread is woven into the story — and it’s what readers tell me they connect with the most.

Where did your business name come from?
“Rocket” was my call sign during my time in government service. Now it’s a piece of my brand legacy — showing up in Rocket Ribs and BBQ, Rocket Smoked Coffee, and my newest venture, Rocket Smoked Publishing. It’s about boldness, flavor, and lifting others up.

Is this a full-time business for you?
This is my retirement — and also my passion. After 27 years in the Air National Guard and Reserves (including multiple combat tours), and later retiring from the U.S. Department of State, I’m now focused full-time on building something creative and lasting. These life experiences — grounded in service, resilience, and connection — shape every story I write and every cup of coffee we craft.

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?
My favorite moment is always seeing someone take their first sip of our smoked coffee and light up at how different it is. I regularly hear, “I usually need cream and sugar, but not with this coffee.” That kind of reaction — realizing it’s something truly special — is exactly what I set out to create.

What motivates you to create?
I create to connect — through the rich aroma of smoked coffee or the emotional pull of a well-told story. There’s something powerful about touching both the senses and the heart at the same time.

What do your customers love most about your product(s)?
People are amazed at how smooth and flavorful our coffee is — with a depth that’s truly unique. And when it comes to the book, readers often tell me it feels like “comfort food for the soul,” especially for those walking through grief or rediscovering what makes them happy.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?
I’m currently celebrating a big moment: Where There’s Smoke: A Texas Love Story — my debut novel — was just named a Finalist in the 2025 American Fiction Awards in the Inspirational Fiction category. It’s a slow-burn romance rooted in themes of grief, healing, and finding your way back home — and fun fact: it also features the origin story of Rocket Smoked Coffee. This holiday season, we’re thrilled to offer gift bundles pairing the book and the coffee together.

Will you be featuring any special holiday items?
Yes! We’ll be debuting our festive gift boxes and exclusive “Read & Roast” bundles, which include a signed copy of the novel and a holiday assortment of our smoked coffee. They’re perfect for gift-giving and cozy nights by the fireplace.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?
We’ll be offering our signature smoked coffee in both medium and dark roasts, as well as a seasonal holiday variety. Attendees can also pick up signed copies of Where There’s Smoke and our gift-ready bundles that include both the book and coffee — perfect for book lovers, coffee drinkers, and anyone who enjoys something heartfelt and unique.

Instagram & Facebook: @rocketribsandbbq
Website: www.rocketsmokedcoffee.com

Who are you and what do you do?  

We’re Kari (former teacher) and Carl, the founders of Chalkboard Candles. Our company creates school-inspired candles made from natural coconut wax, but more importantly, we’re on a mission to support and celebrate educators. With every candle purchased, customers can nominate a favorite teacher, and each month we randomly select winners to receive a check as a token of gratitude for their hard work and dedication. So far, we’ve been honored to give back over $15,000 to deserving educators!

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business? 

Our favorite part of the business is giving back to educators…there’s nothing like sending those surprise checks and knowing we’re making someone’s day. We also feel incredibly lucky to have such loyal customers who believe in our mission and keep showing up to support it.

What is the latest thing you have been working on? 

We’ve been diving into all things fall and winter…testing cozy, nostalgic scents that are perfect for the holiday season! This is such a fun time for us because our candles make amazing gifts, especially for teachers and anyone who loves a little seasonal cheer.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

We’ll be bringing our full line of school-themed candles in all of our original scents, plus some festive holiday favorites just in time for the season! And the best part…customers can nominate their favorite educator right at our booth with any purchase for a chance to win a thank-you check from us!

www.chalkboardcandleco.com 

www.instagram.com/chalkboardcandleco

www.facebook.com/ChalkboardCandleCo

Who are you and what do you do?   

My name is Jennifer DeVries, I am a Minnesota-based independent author of six mystery/thriller novels, written under the pseudonym Brenda Lyne: Charlie's Mirror; Sister Lost; the Raegan O'Rourke Mysteries series: The Thirteenth Cabin, Angel Baby, and Fool's Gold; and my newest novel, Ripple Effect. I was an Anoka County Library Featured Author in 2022 and 2023, I am a Teaching Artist at the Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis, and five of my novels are Readers' Favorite Five-Star Review recipients. I live in Coon Rapids, Minnesota with my two busy teenagers and two furbabies.

Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting story behind it?  

I do write and publish under a pseudonym, and the story behind my pen name is pretty cute. It goes all the way back to when I was in the second grade and was tasked with caring for an egg for a week. Check out the full story on my blog: https://brendalyne.com/blogs/put-that-in-a-book/to-pen-name-or-not-to-pen-name

Is this a full-time business for you?  

I wish! I balance my author business with my grown-up job in marketing for a local financial services company. Someday I hope to take the leap and make it my full-time job.

What motivates you to create?  

For me writing is a compulsion. An absolute necessity. An outlet that helps keep me sane in these crazy times. I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t write.

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?  

Any moment that involves interacting with my readers is my favorite. That’s the biggest benefit to being an independent author.

What are some inspirations for your work?  

Stephen King is my favorite author and hands-down my greatest inspiration. I read my first King book at age ten and haven’t stopped since. Check out my blog for the full story of how Stephen King his influenced me as an author: https://brendalyne.com/blogs/put-that-in-a-book/my-greatest-inspiration-or-why-im-an-author

What do your customers love most about your product(s)?  

My readers tell me that once they start reading one of my books, they can’t put it down. That is the ultimate compliment.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?  

My newest novel, Ripple Effect, dropped on Sept. 9! Come to the Gift & Art Expo to pick up your signed paperback!! Here’s the blurb:
 

When the skeletal remains of a teenage girl are found in a Wisconsin forest, Detective Mike Franklin becomes obsessed with identifying her. But the case goes cold and the girl’s restless spirit remains tethered to him with no memory of who she was. The investigation reignites fifteen years later, uncovering shocking family secrets and revealing a killer much closer than anyone imagined.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

I will have paperback copies of all six of my books to sell. Author signature free with purchase!

https://brendalyne.com

Facebook: Brenda Lyne Books

Instagram: @akabrendalyne

Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Josie, owner of Rustic Metalz, where we create luxury metal wall art and custom signage that transforms spaces. Together with my husband Nathan, we design everything from 3D lighted business signs to garden stakes, magnets, and statement art pieces. Each piece is handmade using durable materials, so it’s not just art—it’s built to last. Rustic Metalz is proudly a family-run business rooted in Minnesota, and we love being part of the local creative community while sharing our work with customers near and far.

Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting story behind it?
We chose the name Rustic Metalz because we wanted people to know exactly what our products are made of and what to expect just by reading it. The word “Rustic” captures the warmth and timeless charm we bring into each piece, while “Metalz” shows the strength and durability of the material we work with. The moment someone sees our name, they can picture bold, handcrafted metal art that feels both rugged and refined. It’s simple, direct, and instantly sparks curiosity—exactly the reaction that makes people say, “Ok, I need to go see this booth.”

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?
One of my favorite moments was seeing our first large-scale business sign lit up at a client’s storefront—it completely changed the atmosphere of their space. Watching their excitement and knowing our work became part of their brand identity was unforgettable. We’ve also found deep meaning in creating memorial pieces for loved ones, including animals, as it gives families a timeless way to remember those who mean the most to them. Those moments remind me why I love creating art that’s both beautiful and functional.

Is this a full-time business for you?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get when people come into our booth. Some are surprised when we say yes, but those who aren’t are genuinely happy that we get to be creatives full time. Of course, like any business, it comes with its pros and cons—but at the end of the day, we’re grateful to be able to do what we love.

What made you take this leap into being your own boss?
My husband and I wanted to spend our lives together, not just our evenings or rare days off. We were sick of only seeing each other in passing, and starting a business gave us the chance to work side by side every day. Some people think we’re crazy for it, but it’s actually the reason we took this leap. We also wanted to work hard building something for ourselves and our future, rather than putting all that energy into someone else’s dream.

What are some inspirations for your work?
Nathan and I met in Montana, and our shared love of nature has always been a core inspiration. From forests and mountains to lakes and wildlife, nature deeply influences our designs. Just as important is the idea of meaning—we aren’t interested in creating “filler art.” We want every piece to carry a story or a connection, both for us and for the people who bring it into their lives.

Have you always been passionate about art and design?
Yes—we’ve both had a love for art and design for as long as we can remember. Creativity has always come naturally to us, and over time we’ve worked hard to refine that gift into something meaningful. When we focus our energy on designing, we’re able to create pieces that feel original, thoughtful, and truly connect with people.

What valuable experience/knowledge did you have before starting your art/business?
My professional background is a rich tapestry of experiences that uniquely prepared me for success in the luxury steel decor and custom signage industry. From age 13–18, I worked as a receptionist at my mom’s hair salon, where I learned the value of customer service and communication. Later, working grounds maintenance at a golf course taught me hands-on skills and an eye for aesthetics, while years as a waitress in both casual and fine dining settings sharpened my multitasking and problem-solving abilities. On top of that, I designed and sold jewelry, which fueled my creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Together, these experiences gave me the skills to balance customer relationships with high-quality craftsmanship. Nathan also brings his background in 3D animation, which allows him to translate our hand-drawn concepts into professional digital designs with ease.

Have you had any major failures? If so, what were some important insights gained?
During COVID, when most shows were shut down, we decided to try a car show. We spent weeks making 35 brand-new designs, overstocked way too many of each, and put in endless hours preparing—only for it to be a complete flop. To this day, we’re still selling the last of those car signs five years later. The lesson was clear: don’t overproduce without testing demand first. It’s always better to sell out than to be stuck with too much inventory.

What are some tips or suggestions you would like to offer?
Focus on solving a problem for your customer. If you can truly address a need or create meaning in their life, your products will sell themselves. And never compromise on quality—it’s what keeps people coming back and spreading the word.

What sets your designs apart from others?
Every single one of our designs is hand-drawn from scratch—we’ve never purchased a file to print. While many metal artists buy premade templates, we create original artwork that you simply won’t find anywhere else. This gives our pieces a level of creativity, uniqueness, and authenticity that stands out, and it’s something our customers really value when they bring our art into their homes or businesses.

What do your customers love most about your product(s)?
Customers love the quality and craftsmanship that goes into every piece we make. They’re drawn to the originality of our designs—art they can’t find anywhere else—and they appreciate that our prices are still very affordable for handmade work. One of the most talked-about features is our unique copper patina finish, which can shimmer with the colors of the rainbow and makes every piece truly one-of-a-kind.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?
We’ve recently added on-the-spot engraving at our shows, allowing customers to personalize any piece right there—it’s been a huge hit for gifts and keepsakes. Beyond that, we’re working on a new line of modern gallery art with 3D aspects, designed for homeowners who want timeless pieces that elevate their interiors. These works are created to blend seamlessly with any style of décor while still making a bold statement.

Will you be featuring any special holiday items?
Yes! We’ll have a collection of holiday-themed magnets and Christmas ornaments that make perfect gifts or festive additions to any home. To make them even more special, we’ll be offering on-the-spot engraving, so shoppers can personalize their ornaments or magnets with names, dates, or short messages for a one-of-a-kind holiday keepsake.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?
We’ll be bringing a wide variety of our handmade metal magnets, garden stakes, luxury wall art, and custom signage samples. Our dog/cat magnets and dog/cat wall signs are always a crowd favorite, perfect for pet lovers who want something meaningful and unique. We’re also excited to showcase our brand-new 3D modern gallery art collection, created for those who want bold conversation pieces that bring depth and texture into their space. Many of our designs are one-of-a-kind or limited releases, making the Gift & Art Expo the perfect place to discover something you won’t find anywhere else.

www.rusticmetalz.com

Instagram: @rusticmetalz

Facebook: Rustic Metalz

Tiktok: Rustic Metalz

Who are you and what do you do?

I'm Christopher Straub, children's book author/illustrator and toy designer! 

Is this a full-time business for you?

Yes!  I work for myself and focus on designing my own ideas but I also help other artists bring their projects to life.

How did you get started in your art / business?

My mother was a commercial illustrator and I saw how amazing her work was so it was easy for me to see that you could make a career with your art.  

How does the city you live in influence your work?

I call Shakopee, MN home and love being a cheerleader for other small-town-based artists.  

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?

 I love when parents tell me that one of my books is their child's favorite story and they won't leave the house without their Straub stuffie.

Have you always been passionate about art and design?

I've always been an artist and was first published at age 10!  To this day, I've designed products for Target, JoAnn's, PBS, Maurice's and many more.   

What do your customers love most about your product(s)?

Folks love that they can get a book for their little ones AND get it signed and personalized with the kiddo's name!  

What is the latest thing you have been working on?

Brand new for 2025: Babe the Blue Ox plush toy.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

Children's Books, Plush Toys, Blankets, Pins, Patches, Stickers, Mugs

www.instagram.com/schmistopher

www.ChristopherStraub.com

Who are you and what do you do?   

Hello!  I'm Kristin and I make Scandinavian-inspired candles. From lutefisk to gingersnap cookie and hockey bag to lefse, you'll find a collection of scents you won’t find anywhere else.

How did you get started in your art / business?  

I had a funny idea to make a lutefisk-scented candle - it took me a couple years to figure out how to do it!  I launched and the next week, I was on the news and the segment was picked up around the world!

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?  

My favorite so far has been finally bringing a lutefisk-scented candle (yes, really!) to the world!  It has become my mission to bring smiles and giggles to a heavy world thru some candles!  

What motivates you to create?  

Uff Da Candles mission is to bring smiles and giggles to a heavy world!  I make candles that inspire nostalgia, family connection, and laughter. Smells are often associated with specific moments or places, and can evoke strong, often emotional, memories.

What do your customers love most about your product(s)?  

That they are unique and hilarious - but I also have some candles that smell great!   These are not boring old candles that people forget - these candles will make you the most memorable gift-giver around.

Will you be featuring any special holiday items?  

The officially licensed National Lampoon's Christmas-scented candles! Christmas movie classic scents like Cousin Eddie’s Egg Nog, Pine Tree Sap and even a “Shitters Full” will be available at the show – Come smell them!

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

My whole candle line which includes: lutefisk, lefse, gingersnap, pickles, frasier fir, hockey bag, lingonberry, maple syrup - and a few National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation-scented candles!   Make sure to stop by and "take the lutefisk challenge! " 

www.uffdacandles.com

www.instagram.com/uffdacandles

www.facebook.com

Who are you and what do you do?

I am Deb A Taylor, an artist with over 10 years of creative exploration, and the founder of Paintings by Deb LLC, launched in November 2024. My artistic journey is a vibrant exploration of acrylic, oil, watercolor, alcohol ink, and mixed media. With a love for bold and bright hues, I aim to spark joy through whimsical characters, fantastical landscapes, and dreamlike scenes that invite viewers into a world where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. My art is about creating happiness, capturing imagination, and leaving people with a smile.

What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?

My favorite moments are always when people smile while looking at my paintings. These reactions fuel my passion and remind me why I create—to share happiness. I hope my art serves as a joyful reminder of the beauty around us, uplifting people and leaving a positive impression long after they first experience it.

What is the latest thing you have been working on?

I am currently preparing for the Mpls Gift and Art Expo by creating several new paintings. I’m finishing up a playful series of colorful and whimsical dragonflies, and next on my easel will be a large, vibrant bear painting.

What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?

I will be bringing a wide selection of original oil, acrylic, watercolor, and alcohol ink paintings in sizes ranging from 5x7 to 24x30, along with note cards. My collection will include holiday-themed works, colorful whimsical animals, impressionistic landscapes and flowers, and standout pieces such as The Essence of Jazz and a Blue Cityscape.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paintingsbydebtaylor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paintings_by_deb