This post was written by Lindy Shopper.
The Eastern Balboa Championships, in its final year, brought out the best in everyone who attended – there was so much positive energy at this event, plus the usual shenanigans, that it was radiant with awesome. Way to go out with a bang!
The vendors added to the shine, as the vendor area showcase several local businesses with a serious fan base. Creations by Crawford has become a staple of swing dance events in the southeast and beyond, known for her custom hair pieces, but perhaps most brilliantly for her lapel art, which elevates and distinguishes the lapels of men’s jackets, with metal, feathers, fabric, and touches that are elegant without being femme. Sharon had a truly delicious selection of jewels to choose from, as the basis for her designs.
Raleigh Vintage, whose online fan base has reached international proportions, returned, with a large vendor space filled with 1930’s and 40’s dresses, separates, menswear, accessories, shoes, and a 1933 World’s Fair tie clip for everyone. They always curate a superbly appropriate collection to bring to EBC, with an eye for durable vintage to withstand the tests of the dance floor. Of particular note was a collection of men’s socks with fantastic colors and details. This year’s display also featured a sale rack of items with minor flaws and majorly discounted prices. And there was much rejoicing.
Chatterblossom made its EBC debut this year, with a collection of hand crafted hair accessories and jewelry, with a vintage-inspired aesthetic. With a welcoming and eye-catching display, it was hard to resist the rings, necklaces, blooms, and flapper head bands in the collection. Already a successful blog and Etsy shop, I hope to see Chatterblossom at future swing dance events, well stocked with tons of goodies, especially red flowers (there are never enough in red!).
Here’s a glimpse of what you missed:
Lindy Shopper 
Oh…this makes me rather sad! After 4 years of vending at EBC, we’re going to miss it terribly! Everyone involved with the event (especially Holly & Chris) is top-notch! I think my most favorite part of vending at EBC was helping so many lovely ladies find their very first vintage dress (wish that I had gotten pictures of all of them in their dresses)! Oh…and 1933 World’s Fair tie clips for everyone! We’ve made so many vintage-loving friends that we hope to see at future events!
Cheers~
Andi (& Isaac)
Raleigh Vintage
Thank you for the write-up darling! EBC was soooo much fun and I didn’t even get to dance (a bit of sickness prevented me)! But I loved vending at a place full of lovely dancers with great music in the air. I hope I can bring ChatterBlossom to more events as amazing as this one!
-Jamie
ChatterBlossom