Sitting on a very busy stretch of Rt. 301, Michael’s Arts and Crafts of Waldorf is in a prime spot to be an integral part of the community.  Melody Onwuegbu-Guy coordinates the craft giant’s community outreach events and classes.  It seems to be a relationship that is good for Michael’s and good for the community.

Melody Onwuegbu-Guy at work at Michaels’ (above)
and volunteering at the 2007 River Artsfest (below).
Photos by H. Bartlett for TheBayNet.com.

She attempts to keep a full schedule of classes available to the community; not only for those who would like to teach, but especially for the sakes of the locals who would like to learn to paint, create mosaics or even just make foam crowns bedecked with acrylic gems and glitter.  

“I would like not only to have teachers that are good at teaching their craft, but some who are also service oriented and can get their classes involved in community projects, especially some of the younger students.”

In June Mrs. Onwuegbu-Guy volunteered her time at River Artsfest, providing hours of activities for the participants in the festival children’s arts and crafts tent.  She enjoys working with children and would like to see more of them having fun in the classrooms at Michael’s on a regular basis. 

Michael’s would also like to see more youth activities at their facility, but are unable to excite enough interest at times.  There was some speculation on Mrs. Onwuegbu-Guy’s part that there just isn’t enough well organized communication happening in Waldorf.  Simply posting fliers in the store and a notice in the paper doesn’t seem to be enough in terms of outreach.  But she keeps trying. 

Mrs. Onwuegbu-Guy often throws special themed events, like her popular “wedding day”, which allow crafters to show off their skills and market their classes or businesses related to the theme.  She is very interested in people’s ideas for themed days. Her easy-going smile puts customers at ease; and, as I observed her directions to employees on her shift, she graciously commands respect, as well. 

“We just try to find things that are interesting to the community.  We always open to suggestions for events.”

There are two large classrooms, making the facility quite accommodating for all sorts of activities, including birthday parties. 

“You pick the craft and we’ll clean up the mess,” Mrs. Onwuegbu-Guy told me.  If it’s tough figuring out what to do for your child’s birthday, a party at Michael’s might be a handy solution.  It’s especially helpful for busy and exhausted parents, or those who just like to see children spending their time productively and creatively while having lots of fun.

Michael’s Arts and Crafts is located at 3026 Festival Way, Festival at Waldorf Shopping Center, Waldorf, MD 20601.  Their phone number is (301) 638-5669.  You can see an online list of the events scheduled at this store by visiting