MANITOUWADGE -- When the Community Services department had to postpone their downtown outdoor summer market due to circumstances beyond their control, a handful of vendors took the matter into their own hands, setting up shop under the pavilion at Manitouwadge Lion’s Beach.
Almost all of the products available were from home or small local businesses. Practically Pampered offered an array of natural skin care and beauty products from their home-based business. Their fragrant bath bombs, soaps, and cleansers are all handmade, and are safe for even sensitive skin, and are a wonderful treat for your soul.
Al V., a newcomer to Manitouwadge, brought along his supply of wildflower honey which he carefully collected before moving from the Niagara region, where he ran an Apiary and Honey Bee rescue service. He’s eager to bring his knowledge of bees and beekeeping to the Superior North region.
Speaking of sweet goodness, gourmet chocolates and syrups by local confectioner, Chocolatina were a big seller, and the owner was one of the driving forces behind the pop-up market. For the sake of quality, Tina will not freeze her stock, but rather makes it fresh in the few weeks before the craft show. She did not want all the hard work she’d put into her sweet treats to go to waste! If you missed out, an assortment of her chocolate and candies are available at Bitz n’ Bobz year-round.
One of Manitouwadge’s newest business is Extreme Action Tattoo & Piercing. Sophie G., the proprietor and artist, was at the market, offering simple piercings and temporary tattoos. She is excited about meeting the townsfolk and showing samples of her work and the services she has to offer at her shop, located downtown beside Threads.
Katie D. from NorthShop showcased her jewelry and fashion accessories, and her sons brought along their 3D keychains, plants, golf balls and clay bowls. Another vendor brought along a selection of handmade greeting cards and other artwork, the funds from which are to be donated to ‘Loads of Love’, an organization which supports an orphanage in Kharkiv, Ukraine.
So, enjoy all the wonderful indulgences procured at Saturday’s sale, and perhaps consider entering into the next Summer Market planned by the Manitouwadge Community Services department, which is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 20. For more information, contact Nicki at programmer@manitouwadge.ca or her summer assistant, Ryleigh, at specialevents@manitouwadge.ca
