Creativity Connects with Mikki Wilson is a podcast from Creative Collective that amplifies the voices and stories of women entrepreneurs who are members of the Creative Collective. In each episode, host Mikki L. Wilson sits down with a woman business owner from the Creative Collective community to explore her unique journey, what drives her, and where she’s headed next. Local

When the Chinese government pressured filmmakers to abandon an independent film festival in New York City, a Salem movie theater decided to act. Cinema Salem is now hosting a Chinese Indie Film Day Festival on December 21, featuring films and the filmmaker who faced government intimidation. The festival represents more than just a screening event—it’s a direct response to censorship

Interviewee: Gladys Muñoz (She, They) In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative. Founded in 2024 by Gladys Muñoz, MPH, MBA, IntiNova Consulting was born from a simple but urgent mission: to close the gaps in access, support, and opportunity that disproportionately affect small business owners—especially BIPOC, immigrant, LGBTQ+, and women entrepreneurs. After witnessing firsthand the

Downtown Beverly transforms into a winter wonderland this December 12-13 as the annual Holiday Stroll, produced by Beverly Main Streets, brings Beverly holiday shopping to life with two festive evenings. Moreover, this year’s event spreads across both Cabot and Rantoul Streets, featuring more than 50 pop-up vendors, local artist showcases, live entertainment, and special promotions at downtown businesses. Additionally, the

Interviewee: Sarah Nelligan (she/her) In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative. I create handcrafted, small-batch pottery inspired by seasonal charm and whimsical design. Each piece is made with care—from wheel-thrown mugs featuring playful Halloween motifs, to ghost tea light holders that glow with personality, to textured vases that bring natural warmth into any space. My

The North of Boston tourism awards Destination Excellence Summit gathered more than 200 professionals at Salem’s Hawthorne Hotel on November 19 to address a critical question: how does a region coordinate tourism strategy across 34 cities and towns while maintaining authentic local character? The timing proved symbolic—the Hawthorne Hotel celebrated its 100th birthday while hosting discussions about the next century

Interviewee: Remy Collins (She/Her) In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative. The Hippie Bean Co. is a hand-dyed apparel brand built on creativity, inclusivity, and color. What started as a way to make my son’s wardrobe more fun quickly grew into a full-blown small business built around joy, confidence, and self-expression. We offer one-of-a-kind tie-dye

What if your next gift could tell a story? That’s the magic of CCIY – Creative Collective It Yourself, where you can discover all things DIY in Essex County to create a gift that feels personal, creative, and truly unforgettable. CCIY isn’t just about making things – it’s about fostering connections and building community through creativity and supporting local talent

By John Andrews, Founder, Creative Collective How Montserrat College of Art, The Cabot, and Beverly Main Streets built something extraordinary I stood in a packed gallery at 248 Cabot Street in Beverly. I watched something I’ve been hoping to see for years: creative organizations building infrastructure together rather than competing for resources. The Bower—Montserrat College of Art’s new 36,000-square-foot creative