In a remarkable debut at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair, local resident and “renaissance woman” Angie Dobransky has made a name for herself by winning an impressive 12 ribbons across 12 different categories. For her first time entering the competition, Dobransky took home six first-place blue ribbons, two second-place ribbons, a third, two fourths, and a fifth, proving that curiosity and a passion for learning can pay off.
As a business coach, author, crafter, and baker, Angie Dobransky has always embraced being a “renaissance woman.” A proud Terp alum and lifelong Montgomery County resident, she sees her diverse interests not just as hobbies but as a “love for learning in all areas of life.” The inspiration to enter the fair struck her a couple of years ago while she was admiring the displays. She realized she already possessed many of the skills, from jewelry-making to baking, that were being celebrated. The memory of her mother winning an honorable mention for a handmade flag afghan in 1976 also served as a powerful motivator, inspiring her to “carry that torch.”
Dobransky’s preparation process involved many hours of meticulous work. The baking entries alone required a solid eight hours of active time, while a 3D papercraft advent calendar was such a “labor of love” that she made three, carefully selecting her best one for the competition.
While she was confident in a beaded cellphone holder she crafted, which unfortunately did not place due to a small flaw she later spotted, Dobransky was most proud of her jewelry entries. Having taken numerous classes over the years, all three of her jewelry pieces won blue ribbons, which she described as a “very validating” experience. This success has even prompted her to consider selling her creations on Etsy.
Dobransky entered the fair with low expectations, a strategy she credits for making her win “thrilling.” Seeing her entries adorned with ribbons was the highlight of her fair visit. The moment that will stick with her most, however, was overhearing a woman admiring her bracelet and asking if she was an artist. “That moment will stay with me,” she said.
When asked for advice for future first-time entrants, Dobransky suggested being strategic with category selection. “There are a lot of cakes and afghans, but some divisions have fewer entries. Picking the right category can make a difference,” she noted. With her remarkable debut behind her, Dobransky is already considering a return to the fair, tempted by a special challenge prize for anyone who enters 17 different home arts categories, a goal that would push her to “stretch into completely new skills.” For this lifelong learner, the journey of creativity is clearly far from over.
