On Sunday, March 24, tents popped up outside Statesboro Mercantile on South Zetterower for the store's first ever Kids Pop-Up Market. The Easter Bunny was on hand to welcome shoppers to the event, where young artisans proudly sold their wares -- ranging from crocheted animals to jewelry to clay art to lemonade and more.
Statesboro Mercantile owner Ashlee Redding said the market was very successful overall, and she's already been asked about bringing the event back again.
"This market was the first for several of the kids because there are not a lot of opportunities for them to showcase their products," Redding said. "I definitely plan to host another one in the future. It is quite impressive to see so many young and talented entrepreneurs in our community!"
Vendors at the event included:
- Ansley's Bead with Ansley
- Isaiah's BG Clays
- Whitley's Whit's Bits Jewelry & Accessories
- Skylar & Natalie's Treasures
- Lillian's Lillian Inspired
- Ava's Lemonade
- Lauren's Jewelry Junkie by Lauren McKenzie
- Emily & Avery's Creations for Christ
- Bailey's Cute Crochet Creations
You can learn more about each vendor on the Statesboro Mercantile Facebook page.
Isaiah, 11, from BG Clays was one of the young vendors making his first ever market appearance. He began working with clay at age 2 and has been honing his craft ever since. He was selling a variety of clay figurines and easeled art at his tent.
"I started making clay figures and gifting them to people, and just recently I started making it a business," Isaiah said. When asked what his favorite part of his first market experience was, he said, "Meeting all the people. It was really fun!"
Ava Mincey, who is a veteran in the market setting with her lemonade stand, said she was inspired by the other younger entrepreneurs and had some words of encouragement for them.
"It's really inspiring because I was at that point at one time when I wanted to start my own business," she said. "I want them to keep going. Don't give up! One day you'll come far and do even bigger festivals."
Statesboro Mercantile is located at 28 South Zetterower, Suite B. For more information, visit https://statesboromercantile.com/.