By John Andrews for Creative Collective. The recently signed Affordable Homes Act in Massachusetts is set to make waves in the housing market, but its impact extends far beyond just putting roofs over heads. This comprehensive $5 billion investment in affordable housing could be a game-changer for artists, creators, and small businesses. Let’s explore how this landmark legislation might energize

August is Black-Owned Business Month, a time to celebrate and elevate the brilliance of Black entrepreneurship and leadership in our communities. With hearts ignited by solidarity and a shared vision, we stand ready to champion local black-owned businesses, nurturing aspirations and cultivating connections that weave the tapestry of our neighborhoods. Here are 10 great Black-Owned Businesses and Black-led organizations to

Two experts discuss branding and relationship marketing and why your business needs it. Story and photos by Joey Phoenix If there is a fast track to business success, it isn’t through traditional networking and outdated marketing strategies. It’s through a combination of solid brand identity and a new form of business connection called Relationship Marketing. Tale as old as time

While Salem/Witch City may be best known for its 400 years of history, today, it is a unique and vibrant city filled with hundreds of small businesses. Events such as festivals and markets fill the calendar each year. Join your favorite Salem tour guides Sarah and Jeffrey, and special guest John Andrews, the founder of Creative Collective, one of the

Festival season in New England usually runs from May to October, plus the sprinkling of winter markets in late November and December, and most artists, makers, creators, and performers are already considering and applying to the events they want to participate in throughout the year. Many North Shore-based festivals have released their call for art and performers, including Salem Arts

by Joey Phoenix Cover image by District Trading Company Disclaimer: I would love to add to this list, so if you are a Queer-owned businesses or know someone who should be featured, please let me know by sending me an email at joeyphoenix@creativecollectivema.com. Also, if any of this information is inaccurate or needs to be updated, please let me know

by Joey Phoenix Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2019 but has been updated to account for COVID times in March 2021. Festival season usually runs from May to October, plus the sprinkling of winter markets in late November and December, and most artists, makers, and creators are starting to consider which ones they want to participate in

The Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate and Wine Festival is just around the corner, and the perfect complement to this year’s predominately outdoor event, along with the Salem restaurant punch card and the ice sculptures, will be a custom window display. Why not add to the spectacle and joy by helping to create more art! Here are 14 artists and design

by Joey Phoenix It’s a cold January morning, your hands are freezing, and you’re trying to wake up. What do you do? An easy option is to pick up a delicious cup of coffee (or tea/tisane) that can chase the morning cobwebs away and warm your hands in the process.  And lucky for you, you won’t have to walk quite

Updated 11/17/2020 The holiday months are a time of general good will and merriment, and while this year may look a bit different, there are still many opportunities to support some local causes hosted by organizations and restaurants North of Boston working to bring some brightness into the world. Here are some of those worthy causes to support in the