Mattawa’s first vendors market took place at Explorer’s Point on July 18, and the event’s success has inspired another round, scheduled for Sunday, August 15.
“We had nine vendors” participate in the first market, explained Renee Paquette, the town’s recreation manger, and “16 vendors have signed up” for the next one.
Some vendors from North Bay’s market are attending as well, Paquette said, adding that “we had it on Sunday to accommodate them.”
“Vendors all the way from Verner” came to sell plants and vegetables, she said, and there was no shortage of locally made crafts on hand as well.
See: Vendors wanted for Sturgeon Falls’ weekend market
One such vendor was Deanna Dillabough, maker of earrings, bracelets, and key chains from various re-purposed materials. She also incorporates beads acquired during her travels through Australia and New Zealand.
“The whole market environment is always so lovely,” she said, “everybody is happy and enjoying the sun. It’s a great way to bring the community together.”
“There’s nothing better than buying something from the actual creator themselves, as opposed to a purchase from Amazon or Walmart,” Dillabough added.
“You get to see the entrepreneur’s face light up with pride and appreciation – it makes you feel so good about your purchase.”
Mattawa’s museum staff also took part in the event, setting up a tent and helping kids create a painted handprint or rock painting.
“Almost every child who walked through the market that day” participated, said Amy Drumm, a summer intern with the museum.
See: Mattawa museum celebrates reopening with Community exhibit
The next market will also have a section dedicated to young vendors, “to support our youth in the community to be entrepreneurs,” Paquette said.
She is also planning to include live music to entertain shoppers.
“Mattawa was so supportive of the event,” Paquette said, referring to the many who came out to browse the tables.
“It’s such a beautiful location” for a market, being right on the river, “I anticipate it’s just going to keep going.”
For those interested in setting up a vendors booth, the cost is $25, and vendors must provide their own tables, chairs, and other necessary equipment. Children’s vendor’s tables are free.
The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact Renee Paquette at 705-744-2311 for more information or to book a table.
See: Farmers' Market opens this weekend with a very different look
David Briggs is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of BayToday, a publication of Village Media. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
