Do-it-yourself crafts are all the rage right now — but with a modern twist. Today, there’s no need to spend a fortune on tools and supplies, fumble around on your own, or make a mess of your dining room table. Instead, you can grab a few friends, pick up your favorite snacks and beverages, and head over to a workshop at Rustic Flamingo DIY.
This locally-owned shop specializes in Farmhouse signs and home décor workshops. They offer an array of projects and will teach you trendy techniques so you can create one-of-a-kind items customized just for you.
More importantly, though, they’re making a difference in our community! Owners Jacque Ruch and Denise Tarbell, who both previously worked with Easter Seals, use their shop as a platform to provide training and jobs to “uniquely-abled” individuals living in Manatee and Sarasota counties.
We were shocked to learn that 72% of people with disabilities are unemployed. Those who are employed are often relegated to menial jobs like cleaning and food service. Not only are these jobs often unfulfilling, but since they offer minimal contact with the public, they also often leave uniquely-abled individuals feeling lonely.
Many of the employees at Rustic Flamingo are on the Autism spectrum. They love art and want to be around people. Jacque says she loves seeing her employees relax and really enjoy their work. While they’re working there, they’re able to enjoy many successes, which helps build their confidence and creates a strong sense of satisfaction.
No Experience Necessary!
If you’re worried about your artistic abilities, you’ll be glad to know that it’s easier than you might think to create a beautiful piece of décor that you’ll actually be proud to hang in your home. When you visit, you can choose from a wide selection of projects and they’ll walk you through it step-by-step. If you don’t have the time or energy to make your own, you can also purchase one of their pre-made signs or have them make a custom project for you.
There are several different ways you can enjoy a session at Rustic Flamingo. They offer open studio on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and on Saturdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 pm. You also can enjoy one of their 18-and-over “Friday Flamingle” events.
They also offer private parties, team-building events, and children’s parties. If you’re looking for a way to keep the little ones busy you’ll want to check out their kid’s camps each Tuesday in June and July.
Rustic Flamingo is located at 4306 FL-64 East, Bradenton, FL 34208. Take a look at their events calendar to learn more about scheduled events, and be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram so you can keep up with all the latest news and updates.
When you visit (and we hope you will!) be sure to tell them you heard about it on Discover Bradenton!
