The Ely Folk school works with over 80 individual artists, 75% of whom have homes in Ely, to put on educational programming in fiber arts, folk arts, music, metalworking, humanities, and Northwoods skills and crafting, along with youth classes. The creativity, passion, and knowledge of the Ely community has allowed the Folk School to grow and thrive. 

It was a coincidence that Shawn and Cindy both fell in love with metalworking, but they’ve found ways to collaborate on their individual art forms. Often, they share a booth at festivals called “Blades and Beguiling Jewelry” and support each other while creating at home.

Ely’s artistic nature has roots in early immigrant communities working in the mines. The arts were a way for the community to gather together and weather difficult times. Says Ian: “We did not have a lot. The moments that we were together were filled with song and dance.” 

The Olberdings bought a neglected piece of farmland in Alexandria. Removing the decaying farm equipment and taking care of the land itself allowed them to establish their award-winning garlic crop.

South Saint Paul-based Famfare Kitchen makes life better through the creation and distribution of their delicious weekly meals. Their signature menus make weeknight sit down dinners a reality for families throughout the Twin Cities metro around real food. In their commercial kitchen they prepare homemade meals from scratch using wholesome ingredients (and an ingredient list that you’ll be able to pronounce). 

We're so excited that several of the Meet the Minnesota Makers "Shop Minnesota" gift guide members are part of Minnesota's State Fair Tradition. Come meet them in person at the Great Minnesota Get Together!