`Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network (RTM) is in full swing renewing memberships for 2016 and inviting new memberships as well. Individual artisans, galleries, shops or craft related business, and farms or agritourism businesses are invited to become part of the growing network. As a member of RTM, join a family of like-minded artisan entrepreneurs and handcraft appreciators in Southwest Virginia. It is a family of individuals to lean on, to learn from, and to get more “bang” for marketing efforts. Become a member and enjoy the many benefits and opportunities available. Benefits include a profile page on the `Round the Mountain website; the opportunity to have work evaluated by a panel of peers; referrals; access to resource guides; one-on-one coaching; marketing tools and more. Visit www.roundthemountain.org for more information. The Artisan Trails of Southwest Virginia is a project of RTM that connects visitors to artisan studios, galleries, agritourism businesses, unique eateries and lodging in communities throughout Southwest Virginia. The Artisan Trail network consists of 15 individual driving trails. Each trail has a landing page on www.roundthemountain.org as well as the www.myswva.org trip planner. Local dining and lodging establishments that serve to enhance the Artisan Trail visitor experience can join the trails as a supporting trail site. `Round the Mountain has been working since 2005 to promote the craft and culture of Southwest Virginia. The organization works in conjunction with state and local government, planning districts, the small business community, arts organizations, economic development, tourism and the artisan community of Southwest Virginia to raise the visibility of the artisan community as an economic driver for the region. RTM serves the Southwest Virginia region of: Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Dickenson, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe counties, and the cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton and Radford. Annual membership dues are $30 for artisans and farms; and $50 for craft venues. There is an additional fee for those members interested in becoming part of the Artisan Trails of SWVA. Annual memberships begin January 1 but folks can join anytime during the year with fees being prorated based on when they join. To learn more about RTM and to become a member visit www.roundthemountain.org, email info@roundthemountain.org, or call (276) 492-2410.
