A new free-to-enter trading card and collectables event is set to take over St Clement’s Parish Hall next month.
Jersey Card Con will offer Islanders the chance to buy, sell and trade collectables while meeting others who share their interests.
The event was founded by Mark Patterson of 90’s Cards and Toys, Andrew Gatehouse of Card Gate, and Aaron Le Herissier of Poke JSY after they “spotted a gap” in the Island’s growing trading community.
It will run from 10:00 to 17:00 on Sunday 13 September, with around 12 vendors and 15 tables currently expected.
Mark told Express that events like Jersey Card Con were about far more than buying and selling.
“As collectors ourselves, we understand that events like this are far more than just about buying and selling,” he explained.
“They’re about discovering the missing piece to your collection, introducing new people to the hobby, meeting old friends, meeting new ones, and just sharing passion that spans generations.”
The organisers hope to create an “exciting, welcoming atmosphere for collectors, families, enthusiasts, and anyone who is interested” while also supporting local businesses.
Mark said: “Our tagline for what we’re trying to do is ‘Powered by Community’. Nice and simple, but I think it says what we’re trying to do. It’s really just about bringing people together that are like-minded.
“I’m 35, I’ve been collecting like my whole life, but I don’t actually have a group of people that I talk to about collecting.
“I can’t wait to meet more people who are into the same things that I’m into.”
The team is currently highlighting some of the vendors due to attend on its Facebook page.
The three founders hope Jersey Card Con will become a regular fixture, with one event held each season.
“We could do them in different locations so that they’re accessible to people, and hopefully grow and get different vendors in and maybe in the future attract vendors from abroad, but right now we’re mainly focused on the Jersey community and bringing those people together,” said Mark.
Accessibility, bus routes and parking will all be considered when choosing locations for any future events.
Entry to Jersey Card Con at St Clement’s Parish Hall is free.
