The year 2016 meant different things to a lot of people, but for Nick and Christie Carrera, it was the year they left corporate careers of 20+ years to pursue a life “overflowing with amazing experiences.” The birth of their children followed by the sudden loss of Christie’s parents made the couple realize – it was time to take control and create the life they wanted their kids to experience. They began their creative businesses, Urban Asado and Silver Sheep Design, and soon the idea for the Collaborative District naturally fell into place. Theirs is an inspirational story, and in fact, that is the mission of the Collaborative District: to provide products, services and ideas that inspire.
The Collaborative District is an art studio, welding shop, jewelry shop, and workshop all rolled into 3,000 square feet of warehouse space on Riberia Street. This space that formerly housed a fabrication shop has been renovated into a place where local artists and craftsmen can both work and have their work showcased to the public.
There is a unique mix of original talent currently being showcased at the Collaborative District:
Urban Asado is Nick’s creation and features Argentine style grills that are a modern take on an old tradition of grilling over a wood fire. Nick originally learned the art of the asado from his Argentine roots and loves sharing his passion so others can “Experience Grilling.”
Silver Sheep Design is Christie’s baby, a handmade jewelry line inspired by her mom, who was a talented jewelry artist and passed along her gift to Christie. Silver Sheep Design offers a wearable and affordable “Basics Line” as well as a “Whimsical” children’s line inspired by her daughter.
Freckled Mermaid offers hand-sewn Freckled Mermaid dolls and kids’ teepee tents, crafted by owner Wendy Berthiaume. Wendy is also a talented painter and will be sharing her talent by offering kids art classes at the Collaborative District.
Bardot Beauty Bus is a renovated 1963 travel trailer that brings Bardot Beauty Bar to wherever you are! Bardot is owned by Britnye Shore and provides bridal or special event beauty services including hair, makeup, eyebrow shaping, manicures and pedicures.
The Collaborative District is open to the public Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and by appointment. Visit them online at www.collaborativedistrict.com.
Image by Ed Taylor
