Program promotes work done in state

Though Leslie Carson works full-time, she devotes most of her spare time to her home business -- Luna Bug soaps.

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Carson said because of her day job, it is difficult to find ways to market her steadily growing soap-making business.

"I have to depend on various means to get my name out there -- word of mouth to get people talking about it," she said.

But she's found a state Web site, www.GaMadeGaGrownProducts.org, to help spread the word.

"It is going to work out great," Carson said of her nearly year-long listing on the site, which promotes products made or grown in Georgia.

The Web site is a product of the Georgia Tourism Foundation's Creative Economies Program. The program is designed to promote Georgia's artists, craft makers, entertainers, authors, food products, festivals, agri-tourism venues, bed and breakfasts, and shops and galleries.

Many Columbia County artists, businesses and events are listed on the site, including Luna Bug, Wynn Art Studio, Lucky Lady Pecans, Gifts and More, Etc., Red Oak Manor, Ghann's Cricket Farm Inc., Pottery by Betsy, JADE Images LLC, and Klose Ups Photography.

"It is not only craft-centric, but also things that are grown here, agricultural things as well," said Beda Johnson, executive director of the Columbia County Convention and Visitors Bureau. "This is a free way that the state is offering, providing at no charge, to artisans all over the state."

Michelle Wynn, a Grovetown artist and Illustrator, said she joined the Web site, but hasn't yet had much response. Like Carson, Wynn said she works full-time and added her business to the site for more exposure.

"I work, too, so that makes it really hard (to market myself)," Wynn said, adding that she also sells her wares in area arts festivals, shows and galleries.

Johnson said she's trying to recruit artists and other businesses to join the site by promoting it through the Columbia County Artists Guild and other arts groups.

"We really want local artisans to use this Web site," she said.

Carson developed a special My Georgia! series of soaps featuring Cherokee Rose, Creepin' Kudzu, Jo Ja Red Clay, Vidalia and Peaches. Through the site, Carson said, a North Georgia wholesale vendor now carries her soaps. She's also able to market her soaps to gift shops, and bed and breakfasts.

Carson said she also uses the Web site to find area products, such as locally grown honey, to use in her soaps.

"It certainly has (been a good place to market Luna Bug)," Carson said.

Johnson said anyone wanting information about a free listing for their creative or agri-business on www.GaMadeGaGrownProducts.org, should contact the Convention and Visitors Bureau at (706) 312-1361.