Ad
Featured
Gifts galore: Holiday Marketplace at Casa Rondeña Winery offers handcrafted goods from over 20 artisans
It takes months — and a lot of patience — to curate the Holiday Marketplace at Casa Rondeña Winery.
The annual event will take place at the Los Ranchos de Albuquerque-based winery from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8.
There will be more than 20 artisans at the marketplace selling their handcrafted goods — including art, jewelry, gourmet treats, fine art, wines and more, according to Colleen Constance Franco, event coordinator.
“The (event) started with a vision of creating a meaningful tradition that celebrates the spirit of craftsmanship, community and connection,” Franco said. “Our vision is to offer a unique, intimate experience where guests could discover handmade products while enjoying our wines in a warm, festive setting. An annual tradition now in its fifth year, this event has become a cherished tradition that fosters a deeper appreciation for history, culture, music, art, architecture and fine wine.”
Joseph Romero is the mastermind behind Joe’s Bows, which is a design studio that specializes in bow ties and suspenders among other goods.
It’s the Albuquerque native’s third year being invited to participate in the winery’s holiday marketplace.
Romero began Joe’s Bows in 2019 after he had requests from the public for his products.
At the time, he was working as a bartender and would dress up for the job.
“I bought nice suspenders and bow ties and people really responded to the look,” Romero said. “I realized that I could make these items. I bought my own sewing machine and started to create bow ties by repurposing old men’s shirts.”
Within a few months, Romero found himself taking two bow ties to work, as the one he was wearing would eventually be sold to a customer.
Ad
Then he was asked to create some looks for a wedding.
That’s when business picked up.
During the day, he works at Sandia National Laboratories and at night, he will get home, spend time with his wife and begin designing.
“It’s more about passion,” he said. “There are days that Joe’s Bows feels like a full-time job. I’d love to get to that point one day.”
When it comes to a design aesthetic, Romero’s fabric choices are based on two things — what stands out and what is unique.
“I’ve also learned how to pair colors from my wife,” he said. “She’s really stepped in and helped me out.”
For the holiday market, he will have a half dozen suspenders made from the likes of old Japanese kimono silk and vintage denim.
There will be about 30 different types of bow ties, including cotton, silk and corduroy.
“Everything is as unique as it can be,” he said.
While bow ties and suspenders are his bread and butter, he’s recently made the transition to upholstery work.
“I’ve been asked for my services to create booths for a restaurant,” he said with a laugh. “The work never stops and I’m happy about it.”
What sets the marketplace apart is its selective nature, as each participating artist is hand-picked and personally invited, Franco said.
“This is a thoughtfully curated gathering of local artisans who complement the quality and charm of Casa Rondeña Winery,” Franco added.
The event coincides with the North Valley Holiday Stop & Shop, which the winery sponsors.
