What makes Tracey Kazimir-Cree with Always Be Creating a good neighbor?

The concept of creative reuse stores has been revolutionizing the way artists, crafters, teachers, and parents approach their creative projects since the 1970s. These unique establishments serve a dual purpose: providing affordable materials for creative endeavors while simultaneously diverting usable items from landfills. Fort Collins' newest addition to this sustainable movement is "Always Be Creating," founded by Tracey Kazimir-Cree, who recently shared her journey and vision on the Good Neighbor Podcast.

Tracy describes her store as a haven where donated arts and craft supplies, manufacturing leftovers, and various creative materials find new purpose. Unlike traditional art supply stores with fixed inventory, Always Be Creating offers an ever-changing treasure trove of goods at significantly reduced prices. The concept appeals to numerous demographics: budget-conscious teachers looking to stock classrooms, parents seeking affordable project materials for children, and artists or crafters embracing sustainable practices in their work. While certain staples like yarn and fabric remain constant, shoppers might discover anything from professional sewing machines to looms to specialty crafting tools on any given visit – creating an exciting, discovery-based shopping experience that encourages repeat visits.

The genesis of Always Be Creating stemmed from Tracy's professional introspection. Currently working in digital marketing, Tracy found herself contemplating a more creative career path leading toward retirement. Noticing that Fort Collins had lost its previous creative reuse store during the COVID pandemic, she identified both a community need and a personal opportunity. This entrepreneurial vision aligned perfectly with her passion for organizing art workshops and promoting creative expression. Tracy's store challenges the potential misconception that creative reuse means settling for subpar materials. As she explains, careful curation ensures customers receive quality items – "the good stuff" – rather than unusable castoffs.

Beyond the commercial aspects, Tracy's story reveals the deeply personal journey that shapes her approach to business and creativity. When asked about life challenges, she courageously shared her experience with infertility, which led to fostering children through Larimer County and eventually adoption. This profound personal challenge has undoubtedly influenced her resilience and compassionate approach to community service through her business. Always Be Creating embodies more than just retail – it represents Tracy's mission to "encourage creativity and sustainability" by teaching people to incorporate reused materials into their artistic practices. For those interested in supporting or exploring this innovative concept, Always Be Creating can be found online at alwaysbecreatingart.com, on social media platforms as alwaysbecreatingfc, or by phone at 970-744-9030. As Fort Collins welcomes this unique establishment, it gains not just another business but a community resource promoting creativity, sustainability, and accessible art for all.

To learn more about Always Be Creating go to: 

https://alwaysbecreating.art/

Always Be Creating

(970) 744-9030