So many years and so many markets

and so much delight!

I am finding a rhythm of how to approach it with children

Jesse is usually busking so I am in the foray with my little friends

Aiming to meet abit of each one’s desires

Playground, food, fossicking, produce shopping, hello to dad, doll’s clothes, push toys, animals, watching buskers etc etc

Bustling, stimulating, stories to share, strangers to meet, everywhere an eye catcher, hungry, overwhelming!

Whether on grass or a carpark makes a difference,

shaded or not?

with food stalls or not?

with artisans or not?

With playground or not?

Buskers?

many important factors!

having been a stall holder previously I can see it from that side too…

I have so much enjoyment from visiting markets and the market community of friends

and revel in the way people interact in these spaces

it is something unto itself

I suppose over time an atmosphere is built up in the place

when it’s all packed down I can still perceive the fullness of what has been there

Be open to being inspired by what others are doing also

On Sunday at the Shalom markets I met Robyn Crosthwaite who sells beautiful wool crafts with her husband

to raise money for their granddaughter Ayla.

Their stall stood out as one of the only with handmade products.

We connected over patterns on Ravelry, pure wool supplies (I recommended Weave and Bilby Yarns) and just yarned about good old knitting, while her husband needle felted rainbow badges for the stall.

Have a look at their blog or shop!

Some things for me to remember to make marketing easier

Take a pram or a trolley to carry your goods or children so your hands are free for rummaging

Take a list of what you are looking for, it can be oh so distracting

and then allow yourself the spontaneity to get your finds of the day

Take snacks and water for all

Hats and maybe a brolly

Be prepared to go slow and make sure everyone gets time looking at what they want

Take time to look at old things and wonder what they where for and used by who

Ask stall holders about the stories of things

Be open to being surprised and learning something new and meeting a new friend

I am blessed to be able to retreat to the bus for a breather and a meal and then

refreshed we burst back in and feast on the beauty!

It’s often a fabulous full day which we discharge by going to the beach or into nature or best of all a swim in a cool creek…

Which market do you love and why?

What do you hunt for?

What tips would you share to make it an enjoyable experience?

With happiness at the future sharings at markets, maybe I will see you there….