Must See Vendors at Gem & Jam 2017

written by Mia Nissen

featured photo by Sage Thomas

The 11th annual Gem & Jam is this weekend! If you haven’t gotten acquainted with the artist lineup yet, my one piece of advice for you is do not miss Dimond Saints. They will simultaneously blow your mind and change your life.

And while the artist line up is to die for, the vendor lineup is just as special. There will be over 40 unique shops and boutiques from all around the country gracing Gem & Jam with their goods this weekend. I can’t think of any better way to open up Festival Season 2017 than with adding some new additions to your festival wardrobe, and this desert paradise may be where you find those special pieces.  Checking out every vendor should be on your To Do List, but if it isn’t, here are some shops you must stop by this weekend.

CATA’L

Photo courtesy of  catalcollections.com

CATA’L offers unique and vibrant clothing for the festy lover that doesn’t dare blend in. My favorite product that the boutique offers would be the array of hoods.  It only takes one festival in the desert sun to realize why hoods are necessary- and CATA’L Catoure offers hoods that are equally unique, functional, and gorgeous. Everything this store has for sale is handmade and one-of-a-kind, and you are sure to find your next festival essential here.

Third Eye Pinecones

Photo courtesy of  @Thirdeyepinecones on Instagram

Chances are if you have been attending festivals for a while, you have ran into a Third Eye Pinecones booth and subsequently drooled over everything. While most of us are familiar with the products they offer, it never hurts to stop by their booth. The team behind the pine cone pendants are always coming up with new designs and combinations that none of us have yet seen. I have made a vow to myself that 2017 is the year that I make the splurge on one.

Saavy Surreal

Photo courtesy of Saavy Surreal Facebook page

Saavy Surreal produces pieces of work that are just screaming to be put on display in your yoga room. She produces beautiful paintings on canvas that are thought-provoking and mystical. Catch her at Gem & Jam doing live paintings throughout the festival that will later be for purchase. Maybe this is the year that you treat yourself to that special piece of artwork?

Tigerlily Boutique and Botanica

Photo courtesy of TigerlilyBoutiqueBotanica.com

This boutique has so many original jewelry pieces, all of which feature the highest quality leather, metal, and gems. Richael, the mastermind behind Tigerlily, also makes organic herbal teas that aid with any needs you may have. Pregnant? There’s a tea for that. Detoxing? She has you covered there, too. Check out the Tigerlily booth for intricate baubles and handmade goods that all are pleasing to the mind, soul, and body.

Gato Montes

    Photo courtesy of Gato Montes Facebook page

Specializing in leatherwork, Gato Montes specializes in all types of festival bags, jewelry, and holsters. The craftsmanship in these products can be seen from a mile away, and I don’t think anyone can pass them up after seeing them. The belts offer such a unique and refined look to any festival ensemble, and they are probably the most beautiful and functional ones I’ve seen.  If you order products from the Gato Montes team online, you can customize the color of leather and type of stone used!

Supporting artisans and small businesses is always a good idea, and they’ll surely welcome you with open arms this weekend.