Dear Friends,
September has just turned the corner and Fall is truly upon us. Our numbers of visitors to the Gallery seem to be a bit lower, but our sales are moving ahead with the season. I have noticed a steady stream of local shoppers coupled with visitors from the north and beyond – perhaps on that elusive hunt for Fall foliage colors.
Our first Member Mixer was a fabulous event even if it was the rainiest day of the month. The fall decorations really looked great. There were many delicious treats shared amongst the group. It was nice to hear the chatter and laughter in this old house – I am sure it has heard much in its long past of over 200 years. Just imagine what the humor of 1797 brought to a party! Thank you for joining us – for those who could not make this event – we will plan another soon! This is a nice relaxed way to get to know each other and our art work.
We have two new members to introduce:
Sherry Corbin, of South Hero, has joined the cooperative. Sherry is a Raku clay artist. She will be adding in her pottery lamps, jars, plates, bowls, delightful birds and more.
Susan Tobey and Scott Burke will share one membership at the gallery. Susan is a silver jewelry artist, known in the area for her beach glass pieces. They are stunning. 
Scott is a blacksmith. He creates both functional and decorative pieces in wrought iron.
As we shared last month, Grand Isle Art Works is member driven. It’s only work force and the majority of the income come from the actual members themselves through annual membership fee. The 10% commission mainly covers packaging materials and credit card costs for the gallery. In our initial financial planning we budgeted our expenses around this membership fee and the addition of “Friends” and “Corporate Sponsors” for the Gallery. With this, we pay the rent and utilities, procure appropriate technology, lighting, display furniture, signage, and advertising.
Friends of the Gallery
$75 per year
Invited to work in gallery for special events.
Listed in print publications and on website
10% Discount to special events
Our current Friends are:
* Karen Tyler, Burlington
* Nick Durso, North Hero
* Elaine Harrington, Chicago
* Kim Kinney, South Hero
* David Carter, South Hero
* Norma Miller, St. Albans
* Lucille Bryan, Tennessee
Corporate Sponsors
$125 per year
Listed in all print publications and website with advertising information, business card size advertisement.
10% Discount for 2 individuals for special events
Our current Corporate Sponsors are:
* A&B Beverage, Grand Isle
* Apple Farm Market, South Hero
* Vermont Brownie Company, South Hero
* CWG Enterprises, South Hero
* Kevin Harrington, Architectural Consultant, Chicago
November 6 will be our next special event from 4:00-8:00 pm. We have lined up East Shore Vineyards to help us with this one. This event will include a silent auction. The bidding will begin in mid-October and will take place through our website, facebook, twitter, and in person in the gallery.
I continue to marvel at the amount of talent represented by our group.
Sincerely,
Ellen
