As a weekly event, the Riverside Arts Market must strike a delicate balance between consistency and change. Customers know they can count on attending RAM each Saturday, and that they can expect quality, handmade, local goods. But at the same time, customers look for variety and always gravitate towards something “new.”

No maker has come to understand this balance better than Annsley Edwards of Anney Life Designs. Over the past seven years, her leather goods have become a market staple and a driver of attendance thanks to Annsley’s consistency and commitment to doing what many makers hesitate to do: change things up. From shifts in her display, to the addition of interactive elements like vending machines and on-site leather stamping, the Anney Life Designs booth looks different every year, yet maintaining a signature “look” and style. This approach has brought her success and led to the development of a second, luxury product line–naturally, with products test-driven at RAM before her big launch of Annsley Rebekah.

Beyond her business success, Annsley has also taken on responsibilities within the market– helping staff park vehicles during morning setup, welcoming newer vendors during their first RAM days, and creating unique merchandise for sale at RAM’s Info Booth. She is always one to share tips and tricks, and mentors not only those looking to hone their skills in leathermaking but fellow vendors looking to upgrade their own displays and visitor experiences.