Prairie Products | #CDM2017 Vendor

Tell us about your business.

Hi, my name is Tom Hubbell and I live in Ankeny, Iowa.  I am a registered nurse by profession and specialize in Pediatric Nursing.  My company was just started this year and is called Prairie Products (which doesn’t sound very European, but I had to find a name to register).  Prairie Products specializes in imported, German, handmade Christmas items of wood and glass.

What inspired you to get involved as a vendor at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017?

I became interested in starting my business after speaking with Suzanne Hull about the Des Moines European Heritage Association.  After a great deal of thought, I felt that this business venture would be the best way for me to support the Association, as well as opening up opportunities for me to expand my horizons.

What products will you be selling at Christkindlmarket Des Moines 2017 and why did you choose them?

Prairie Products will be selling wooden nutcrackers (Nussknackers) from a variety of artisans, as well wooden pyramids of different sizes.  The pyramids use candle heat to make the blades at the top spin which turns an axle down the center with carved figurines; these are very traditional and common in German homes.  There will also be glass ornaments, wooden ornaments, tree toppers, curled wooden stars, and smokers (Rauchmannchen) of different sizes and themes.  I am also hoping to have some traditional paper napkins from Germany for decorating your Christmas party table.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I am excited about this venture with Christkindlmarket Des Moines and DMEHA.  Please stop by and say “Hello”.