Some people have called this shop a "ministry." Although I don't know if I would go that far, the description fits. I began making the freedom angel in 2004 while praying for the safe return of a family member . The freedom angel gave me an outlet and something tangible when I needed it. My freedom angel comforted me.
I began bringing my freedom angels and a few others to local nursing and care centers. In exchange for a chance to sell my angels to the residents there, I would give back 20% of all my sales to the residents to go towards their activities fund.
Four years later......
An opportunity presented itself were I could venture beyond anything I had ever experienced - I was able to open my own shop - Chelsea's Cottage & Crafters Outlet! The shop began with less than 20 crafters. There were days that I didn't think my angels were going to make it. Unfortunately, due to the economy, we had to close the shop, but we still do shows on a continuing basis. Please see a list of our shows on our "Locations" page.
Now we have over 75 different local artists and crafters displaying their work through Chelsea's Cottage. Many of the crafters here have disabilities and would otherwise have no way of selling their work.
I still don't know if I would call our shop a ministry, but I do hope that you find something here that will make you or someone you care about smile and have a better day. I guess if we keep spreading joy, that is all that is asked of us.
