Special to Iredell Free News

The Fall 2020 Statesville Artisan & Crafters’ Expo will be a virtual show this year. It will take place November 21-22 on Facebook.

Admission is free and items for sale include unique home décor, handbags, soap, artwork and more. All items for sale are handmade by the event vendors.

Melissa Friend has organized craft shows since 2007, and in 2010 she officially took over the full coordination of the Statesville Artisan and Crafters’ Expo. These spring and fall events bring together a variety of artisans, crafters and local businesses, which provides shoppers with a variety of handmade items to purchase.

“This year it is especially crucial for people to choose to support local businesses,” Friend said. “It’s been a hard year for most, but we have the opportunity to help families that depend on income from their small business when we choose to ‘shop small’. ”

Shopping local makes a direct impact on our communities. It allows small businesses to thrive while building a strong community through growing relationships. Handmade items are a great option for people to find unique gifts or items to enjoy personally.

When shopping the virtual Statesville Artisan & Crafters’ Expo, the items purchased will come with a name, face and story. Every purchase will give these small businesses, artisans and crafters support by enabling them to continue providing our communities with fantastic, unique creations.

Details about the virtual event can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/statesvilleartisanandcraftersexpo or the event page https://www.facebook.com/events/713393396109630