Etsy is a treasure trove of unique and beautiful items created by some of the most talented people around the world—2.1 million of them, in fact. These sellers—and the extraordinary items they make, design and curate—deserve to be celebrated. That’s why I’m so excited to announce the launch of the Etsy Design Awards, our first-ever global competition created to showcase the very best of Etsy.

To help us on our hunt for the best, we’ve enlisted the help of international tastemakers and experts in style, design, and entrepreneurship. The judging panel includes writer and actor Dan Levy, style expert Joe Zee, author and artist Garance Doré, interior designer Sophie Robinson, décor expert Holly Becker, and fashion designer Anavila Misra.

Together, we’ll be choosing the sellers who will receive the inaugural Etsy Design Award honors (or the Etsies as we’re affectionately calling them). One extraordinary Etsy seller will be named the Etsy Design Award Grand Prize Winner and will be awarded $15,000 USD and five category winners will be named Etsy Design Award Category Winners, winning $1,000 USD. All winners will receive a dazzling trophy, and a bundle of marketing and business prizes.

This definitely won’t be an easy decision to make. We’ll be looking at the quality, creativity, utility and “wow” factor of the Etsy items submitted across five categories:

• Inventive Decor (items that make home sanctuary-worthy)
• Signature Style (jewelry, fashion, and accessories that make a statement)
• Festive Celebrations (party decor and all things wedding)
• Earth-Friendly (sustainably made finds)
• Creative Collaborations (personalized, handcrafted goods)

The search is now officially on! Etsy sellers should submit their favorite piece—handcrafted, designed or vintage—between May 14 and June 4 for the chance to win. The winners of our 2019 Etsies will be revealed in September.

Head to etsydesignawards.com for more information, eligibility details and to enter.

Follow along with hashtag #TheEtsies.