Justine Bursoni is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, but she started photography in high school — and never stopped. Now Bursoni is a professional photographer who routinely jet sets around the country — mostly to New York City — to capture some of life’s most intimate moments, also known as weddings. She is also the brains behind the Made Festival, a two-day, outdoor curated marketplace featuring handmade and vintage sellers. It is open on Saturday and Sunday this week (find it in downtown Champaign on Main Street, in the parking lot next to the High Dive). She and husband Seth Fein own the Pygmalion Festival, Smile Politely, Nicodemus Agency, and Justine Bursoni Photography. They live in Champaign with their toddler son, Ellis.
Justine Bursoni with son Ellis. Photo provided.
See why we think Justine Bursoni is a Chambana mom to know.
The Made Fest is a two-day handmade and vintage fest. It’s a way for artists to connect to other vendors and their audience. It’s also a way for our attendees to have the opportunity to support artists directly. Visitors can expect a variety of vendors and new goods at a shopping experience unlike any in town.
We’re hoping we have more families come out during the daytime hours to Made. Families should check out some of the free lit readings part of the Lit Fest. There are all ages shows, and it’s never too early to show children what the importance of live music and poetry is.
Thank you. I work frequently in New York City and one of my weddings took place at The Liberty Warehouse on the Red Hook channel. Their candlelight ceremony overlooked the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. It was quite monumental in many ways. It was a lesbian wedding and aside from both parents walking each of the brides down the aisle to show of their support and Colleen and Mary’s heartfelt vows — they had a thunderous standing ovation during their first kiss. Tears of joy were everywhere.
Keep it simple. Half the shit you pack, you don’t need, so don’t bring it. If you find yourself in a pinch, then go buy it is my policy. We always pack one suitcase for the three of us. We have done this for every trip from a weekend away to NYC to a month long out of the country. Do laundry there and repeat outfits. Who even cares if you rock the same outfit a few times in a week?
How demanding maintaining your own life and business with your new human truly is.
A Greek restaurant. I crave saganaki and fresh seafood frequently.
Roller skating, laser tag, bowling, and mini golf. All in one night.
This coming from someone who lives to travel: I absolutely hate being a tourist and dislike being treated like one. Don’t take my photo in front of places. I like to be discreet. I don’t like to be spotted a mile away. I like to make the places I visit feel like home instantaneously. I will struggle to speak your language — but, damn it, I have tried and in a semi-convincing accent.
