Etowah River Pottery-the People behind the Clay

Etowah River Pottery is Deanne and Jeff McWaters: Two people who share a love of the South, the great outdoors, their pets, their friends and each other.

Their story began at Southeastern Expeditions in 1989 as two Section 4 Chattooga River raft guides enjoying their freedom. One thing led to another and soon the pair were married.

Not ones to follow a typical life, they honeymooned by rafting the Grand Canyon on a private permit in the cold of December and at low water levels. Romantic. Cold. Scary. But that's who they are.

Back in the warmer and dryer south, they ran a vending machine service business during the 90's. Road rage being what it is, they sold the business in 2000 and began a life in the hills of North Georgia.

Never ones to stray too far from the water, they occupied their time running such rivers as the Grand Canyon (again), the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho, Rogue River in Oregon, Gauley River, The Chattooga, the Etowah River and even the Okeefenokee swamp. They support the efforts of the Upper Etowah River Alliance and the Lumpkin Coalition.

But living a peaceful life with several cats and German Shepherds was not long lived. Their creative side needed an outlet, and pottery was calling. So in 2008 Etowah River Pottery officially opened. Following training and classes at North Georgia College and State University, personal tutoring by master potter Helen Miller of Bleu Gallery, the first efforts came out of the kiln.

Since then the Southern born and bred duo has peddled their wares at such places as the Bear on the Square festival, Goldrush, and the Hemlock festival (all in Dahlonega, GA.) You can find their art anytime at the Humble Candle and Belle Avance Salon-all on the square in Dahlonega.

Jeff holds a BBA in small business from Georgia State University and Deanne holds a Bachelor of Arts from Clemson University. Etowah River Pottery is a licensed business in Lumpkin County GA, and are proud members of the local Chamber of Commerce.

Drop them a line. If you don't hear back quickly they're probably out exploring the nature and beauty that shows through in every piece of their pottery.

Thanks for listening.