Visual Traveler: The Hot Shop, Orange Beach, AL

​Top photo: I made the pale blue ornament in this pretty lineup.
Lower photo: Crafted during my second visit, this paperweight has decorated my home office desk ever since it was cooled and shipped to me.
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I first visited this lovely glass blowing shop at Coastal Arts Center while enjoying a trip created by Geiger and Associates Public Relations, more than a decade ago. A second trip to the area - this time with Mindy Bianca Public Relations - provided another opportunity to flex my creativity under the direction of highly skilled staff at The Hot Shop. During both visits, I loved how my experiences here ignited the artistic side of my personality.

Opened in 2009, The Hot Shop's friendly and knowledgeable staff guides visitors during public weekday 'Make Your Own' sessions (fee required), resulting in ornaments to home wall displays. Additional opportunities include a Private Glass Blowing Class (the Make Your Own class is a prerequisite), a Sun Catcher Fused Glass Project, Glass Fusing, and Lamp Work. Because each completed piece must slowly cool for 24 hours before a guest takes it home, shipping is also available.

Safety considerations are paramount in this studio. Kids may participate from age eight with adult companions. Guests must wear closed-toe shoes, and cotton versus synthetic clothing is highly recommended because synthetics are more flammable.

The next time you visit Orange Beach, Alabama, set aside some time at The Hot Shop. You'll love the results.

​Above: The Coastal Arts Center

With thanks to Sara Martin, Director of Strategic Communications, Mindy Bianca Public Relations, for taking so many of these 'action photos.'

Disclaimer: As a travel writer I may receive complimentary stays, admissions, meals, transportation, and, occasionally, products I am asked to review. However, I make every effort to report my experiences fairly and honestly.