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Over 40 small business will showcase their wares and nibbles in a special market next weekend as part of an initiative aimed at promoting 'made in Jersey' goods and driving footfall to the Fort dreamed up by an entrepreneurial local mum.
The 'Shop Small Christmas Market' will be taking place at Fort Regent next Saturday.
The idea came about thanks to Linzi Maindonald, owner of Lola's Bowtique, a brand of handmade hair accessories for girls.
Linzi taught herself to make accessories via YouTube videos after being disappointed by the quality of those available when buying for her young daughter. Since turning that endeavour into a small business, she was keen to find a platform for her small business - and others - to be able to promote themselves.
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"I am a small business owner, I can't afford the shop prices," she explained. "But to sell your products you have to get your name out there. A pop-up shop is perfect for this."
It was this that prompted the idea of a Christmas market. She hoped to organise one last year, but was unfortunately too late. Determined to make it happen, she started planning months in advance this year. The response to her idea has been so overwhelming that she says she had to turn down some requests to take part.
"There will be 42 small businesses at the market but we could have had double that. I didn't have to advertise the event. I posted about it in a group for small entrepreneurs and had so many enquiries. Some people have even asked if they can be there for the next one!"
Pictured: 42 local businesses will join Linzi at Fort Regent.
To make sure visitors have a wide variety of gifts and products to choose from, Linzi has been strict in the selection of the stalls. "There will be a little bit of everything and something for everyone hopefully. We will have skincare, bakers, photographs, home made clothes, accessories, jewellery, pottery vintage fashion, illustrations and home fragrances."
While online purchases have been blamed for destroying the high street, Linzi still thinks local, handmade pieces still appeal to consumers. "It's difficult because people buy online because it's cheaper, and, as a business owner, you should be competitive. But people still look for the unique aspect. One of the people at the market makes jewellery with recycled bits of glass found on Jersey beaches. You can't find this online!" she said.
Linzi has organised for the Jersey Youth Service to entertain shoppers with some music throughout the day, and the event will also help raise funds for local mental health charity Mind Jersey.
Pictured: A poster for the event.
"I wanted it to be a community event while bringing some extra footfall to the Fort," Linzi explained.
"The team at the Fort were brilliant in helping me organise everything. They helped me make bring the price down to make it affordable for everyone. They have been really helpful and supportive."
The market will take place between 10:00 and 16:00 in Queen's Hall, Fort Regent.
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