Made In Missouri

For fiber artist Bella Erakko, the craft of weaving altar cloths is a vehicle for sending well-wishes into the world. With each order for a commissioned piece, she asks three questions: What do you want to wrap yourself in—peace, courage, love?

These two Cape Girardeau painters write and illustrate children's books in an unconventionally collaborative way. Their method is a fast-paced give-and-take that requires absolute trust, open minds, and a willingness to pick up and pivot.

In Ken Gilberg’s line of work, he gets on his soapbox daily. He loves to speak out about Herbaria, his St. Louis-based company’s all-natural, vegetable-based soaps, deodorants, bath bombs, bath salts, moisturizers, aftershaves, insect repellents, and gifts.

Show your Missouri pride and give made-in-Missouri gifts this year. We’ve gathered some diverse ideas for the people on your list. Support your Missouri makers!

For salsa devotees looking to shop and eat local, 5Gen Salsa has what you need. This sweet and spicy salsa first took fans by surprise when Harrisburg resident Kim Ham-Lanes started bottling and selling the salsa. Since 2011, 5Gen’s lineup of bloody mary mix and mild and medium salsas has won its fair share of awards, and for good reason. This family recipe has been a winner for five generations.

In Europe, village distilleries are commonplace. Every family in one Swiss mountain region had fruit trees and made their own mash. A couple in Missouri is following the tradition of making vinars, a traditional Swiss spirit.

This artist’s work made one young mother burst into tears. She paints bold, beautiful women in bright colors but also cozy, quiet cottages in pastels. Her intriguing tiles can be creative accents in any room. Discover where to see her work.

Downtown Branson candy shop has kept the same recipe for a century.

Green giving is a great way to give gifts. Holiday gifts and parties can be sustainable and sensational. Read all about some great ideas to go green this holiday season and all year long.

After all the rich holiday party food, we thought you might like a simpler but still protein-rich black beans and rice dish, especially since you can make it with products grown right here in Missouri.