Caroline Sanders Clements Archives – Page 16
Celebrating Southern Craftsmanship: Meet the Woman Behind Garden & Gun’s Made in the south Awards
Caroline Sanders Clements, associate editor at Garden & Gun magazine, is on a mission to showcase the best of Southern creativity.As the driving force behind the magazine’s annual Made in the South Awards,Clements champions artisans,makers,and innovators across a diverse range of fields.
Since joining the G&G team in 2017, Clements has immersed herself in the rich tapestry of Southern culture. Her byline graces stories that celebrate the region’s vibrant artistic scene, from talented painters and sculptors to skilled architects and historians. She’s profiled James Beard Award-winning chefs, delved into the world of tomato farming, and even explored the unexpected realm of mixed martial arts.
“The South is brimming with incredible talent and ingenuity,” Clements says. “The Made in the South Awards are a way to shine a light on these individuals and businesses who are pushing boundaries and preserving traditions.”
The awards, now in their 12th year, recognize excellence in categories like food, drink, style, home, and craft.From handcrafted furniture and bespoke clothing to innovative food products and enduring farming practices, the awards celebrate the diverse expressions of Southern craftsmanship.
Clements’s passion for her work is evident in her dedication to uncovering hidden gems and sharing their stories with a wider audience.
“Its incredibly rewarding to connect with these talented individuals and learn about their creative processes,” she explains. “The Made in the South Awards are not just about recognizing achievement, but also about fostering a sense of community and celebrating the unique spirit of the South.”
Based in North Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband Sam and their dog Bucket, Clements continues to champion Southern creativity, one story at a time.
Celebrating Southern Ingenuity: A Conversation with Caroline Sanders Clements
NewsDirect3.0: Caroline, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. The Made in the South Awards have become a beloved tradition, showcasing the incredible talent flourishing across our region. Can you tell us more about your role in bringing thes awards to life?
Caroline Sanders Clements: It’s my pleasure. I joined Garden & Gun in 2017, and since then, I’ve been deeply immersed in the vibrant world of Southern creativity. The Made in the South awards are a true labor of love for me. As associate editor, I spearhead the entire process, from sourcing nominations and curating the final list to celebrating these remarkable artisans and innovators.
NewsDirect3.0: The awards encompass such a diverse range of categories – from food and drink to home and craft.What drives you to celebrate this breadth of Southern creativity?
Caroline Sanders Clements: The South is brimming with incredible talent and ingenuity.The made in the South Awards are a way to shine a light on those individuals and businesses who are pushing boundaries and preserving traditions. Whether it’s handcrafted furniture, bespoke clothing, innovative food products, or enduring farming practices, these awards celebrate the diverse expressions of Southern craftsmanship.
NewsDirect3.0: Beyond recognizing achievement, what impact do you hope the Made in the South Awards have on the community?
Caroline Sanders Clements: The awards are not simply about recognizing achievement; they’re about fostering a sense of community and celebrating the unique spirit of the South. It’s incredibly rewarding to connect with these talented individuals and learn about their creative processes. By amplifying their voices and sharing their stories, we hope to inspire others and cultivate a deeper recognition for the rich tapestry of Southern culture.
NewsDirect3.0: What advice would you give to aspiring artisans and makers hoping to make their mark in the South?
caroline Sanders Clements: Embrace your passion,stay true to your craft,and don’t be afraid to experiment. The South has a long and storied tradition of craftsmanship,and ther’s a real hunger for authentic,handmade goods. Connect with other makers, seek out mentorship opportunities, and never stop learning and growing.
NewsDirect3.0: Thank you, Caroline, for sharing your passion for Southern craftsmanship with us. We look forward to seeing the next generation of Made in the South honorees.