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culture// Desert & Denim

Tradeshow season is incredibly incarcerating and impersonal -- confined to a booth with nothing but numbers and the bottom line to talk about, it is a killer for the creative mind. So how do you stand out in a world that is founded on following trends and highly focused on spending too much money to make money? The simple answer is, you can’t… unless you go against the grain. Wilderness fragrance company, Juniper Ridge, recognized this obstacle and did just that.

Desert & Denim has established itself as the “World’s Premier Renegade Tradeshow” – two days in Joshua Tree with like minded artisans connecting to share, inspire and commune. It’s a gathering of innovative talent whose roots all stem from craftsmen of yesteryear, looking to unify with the process… and have a good time.

Desert & Denim was a pleasure to be a part of – a two day show turned into a four-day vacation. Upon arrival at the Mojave Sands Motel, we were received with a warm welcome and guidance. Instantly we knew this was a show like no other. Everything and everyone worked so well together and it was very impressive how smoothly and well thought out every detail was. The Juniper Ridge crew left nothing to be desired. That being said, we were glad to be there.

Being the second year, many of the attendees had already been acquainted. This being our first year, we initially approached the event with the typical “detached and all business” mindset, which melted away quickly. The event was well crafted with a full itinerary for all of its guests. Starting with a campfire dinner, we were shuttled to Joshua Tree National Park and greeted with complimentary wine (Union Wine Co.), whiskey (Tin Cup Mountain Whiskey), and dinner. After dinner we gathered around the fire for a once in a lifetime acoustic performance by John Doe (X) to round out the night.

Day one was full of conversation, good music, and workshops. We started the day with an Indigo Shibori lesson (APPRVL) then moved into an Indigo tie-dying workshop (Jungmaven). Meanwhile, attendees were sampling whiskey, freshening up their cuts courtesy of Byrd, and sitting for commemorative tattoos by Matt Decker (Premium Tattoo Oakland). Later that evening we all met up at Taylor Junction Gallery to take in a fine art showing, more music and time to unwind. We also had the privilege to sit for a tintype photo session with photographer Giles Clement.

Day two was more relaxed – with just over 30 vendors, the gathering was tight and friendships were made. It sort of felt like summer camp for super creative adults… with great beer (Sixpoint Brewery). The morning commenced with a leather workshop (Makesmith), knitwear machine techniques (Brick), herbal medicine making (Fat & the Moon), and finally whiskey training (Tin Cup Whiskey). The last evening was like the end to a family vacation. Just a stone’s throw from our motel in Pioneertown, the last hurrah took place at the famous Pappy & Harriett’s.

All in all, it was a fantastic 4 days and we really want to thank Juniper Ridge, all of the sponsors and attendees. See you next year!

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