We had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Schmidt and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Amy, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have always felt that the creative path chose me. As far back as I can remember I have always been drawn to and inspired by art, creativity, and making things to sell. I have always enjoyed the freedom of owning my own business. It’s been a lifetime of feeling the soulful, powerful urge to immerse myself into ways of bringing my ideas to life. It is like I cannot do anything but that. It gives me the greatest joy to express myself in a creative and artful way, and comes naturally as my way of life.
A creative career brings infinite opportunities that allow for the greatest imagination. It is great for out of the box thinkers. I have loved exploring different forms of product craftsmanship & artistic process, as well as supporting other creatives in business. It has been incredibly fulfilling to see how my ideas have come into form and to experience the gifts that have emerged as a result of it.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have been a creative entrepreneur for most of my life. It’s is not always been an easy path, and requires passion, dedication, perseverance, and the willingness to learn new things. As a single woman, this has caused me to dig deep to focus on what I truly want in life, and have faith that the reality of my dreams are possible. Starting a business is a huge decision. To overcome challenges and fear my mindset must be focused on the flow of success. and how my business can positively effect & help others.
I have created several businesses over the years. Like many creatives, I wanted to stay at home and earn an income when my kids were small. My first company that started it all was Quaintly Quilted Treasures, making handmade quilts and selling them at craft fairs. This was a perfect niche for me that snow-balled into the next venture, Spirit of Love Designs. This was wholesale cottage industry that employed other stay at home moms. This business entailed mass producing my original folk art prints with quirky frames, then sold to boutiques across the country. This venture led to one of my greatest loves – owning and managing the trendy ladies boutique Sassafrass in Castle Rock, and also True You ~ A Shopping Emporium in Parker.
I have also loved being a part of hundreds of pop up shows selling my handmade items. I now focus on intention inspired jewelry, gemstones and creating metaphysical products such as my hand wrapped selenite wands.
All of these endeavors have led me to my most recent company. Art and Soul Events LLC, DBA – Art and Soul Kindred Spirits. I specialize in curating artisan and holistic events in Colorado.
We recently hosted 120 creative artisan and holistic practitioners at A Creative Market & Holistic Expo at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Castle Rock. This is an annual event that brings a unique and eclectic energy to Douglas County, and surrounding communities.
I am very excited about what Art and Soul Kindred Spirits offers to our guests! The vibe is “Spirituality With an Artsy Twist.” Our events are curated to provide a body, mind and soul experience for those attending. They are designed to bring awareness to the creative spark that lies within us all, and that one’s personal creative expression is healing and transformative. It is a way to share your soul with the world.
I am so very proud of our exhibitors & speakers. They are the heartbeat of our expos and fairs. They provide amazing one-of-a kind creations and heartfelt experiences. During our weekend events, our holistic practitioners provide a full lineup of holistic workshops & presentations for our guest to enjoy and discover something new.
Our next event A Holistic Holiday & Magical Makers Faire is November 9-10, 2024 held at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds in Aurora. We hope to see you there!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think a few hotspots for me would be a quick trip to the mountains – perhaps Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park or Breckinridge for hiking restaurants, & shopping.
Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs with a hippy style shopping excursion in Manitou Springs or Old Colorado City.
An outdoor summer artisan festival, farmers markets, and street fairs.
Ophelia’s in Denver – great good, and entertainment. Fika coffee – quaint & old school.
The Sanctuary labyrinth walking path in Castle Rock.
The Makers Market located in Park Meadows Mall.
Crystal Comunitea Shop – tea & crystals
Attend a Discover your Spiritual Gifts workshop.
Visit one of the Hot Springs in Colorado
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like recognize the support of my daughter Erika Schmidt. Running large events take an immense amount of planning, and energy. This lady jumps in to help with specific tasks that aid me tremendously.
Website: https://www.artsoulevents.com
Instagram: @artandsoulkindredspiritsevents
Facebook: @artandsoulkindredspiritsevents
Image Credits
Art and Soul Kindred Spirits