Our Team

ByHand has expertise in product development and merchandising, sales and marketing, business management and training. We would be happy to custom design a program to fit your company’s needs.

 

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Karen Gibbs

KAREN@BYHANDCONSULTING.COM
 

Karen was drawn into the artisan sphere through her interest in economic development and her aspirations to use the "trade not aid" approach – and she has never left! From her work with non-profit organizations, including Aid to Artisans and HAND/EYE to consulting to international development organizations in more than 30 countries, and co-founding a successful import / wholesale company, Karen has seen first-hand how the artisan sector touches on all aspects of sustainable economic development. Today, as co-founder of ByHand consulting, Karen leads project management and new business initiatives. Karen has led ByHand Consulting's role as a founding member of the Alliance for Artisan Enterprise, an initiative with the US Department of State and Aspen Institute. She is an active Board member of HAND/EYE. 

 

 

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Colvin English

COLVIN@BYHANDCONSULTING.COM
 

Colvin has been marketing handmade products since he was 12! His early career started with his family's woodcarving business where he developed his entrepreneurial spirit and understanding of all facets of running a business – a talent he carries through in his consulting today. Colvin serves as the National Sales Manager for several American handmade companies. He was the Director of Craft Marketing for George Little Management, a leading US trade show management company. And he co-founded Melange, a successful import / wholesale company offering handmade products from artisans worldwide. Today, as co-founder of ByHand, Colvin is the tireless traveler found in all corners of the world, working side-by-side with artisans to strengthen their businesses and increase their market exposure.