Disclosure:: This post was sponsored by the wonderful team at Mid City Makers Market in Baton Rouge. With that being said, the views and opinions written below are genuinely our own.
5 Reasons to visit the Mid City Makers Market
The Beginning
There are a few things we know about life :: it is ever-evolving, unpredictable and sometimes leads us right to where we always were meant to be. I have had the privilege of knowing these folks for a while now and I’m so happy to bring you their story. Last December, Dawson and Madeline Ellis, the creatives behind MIMOSA Handcrafted, were aiming to host a home trunk show with fellow maker friends for last minute holiday shoppers. They soon realized that hosting this was outgrowing their home and a different route was needed. Luckily, they own a building in Mid City along with Justin Lemoine of ELSLA Studio & Jeremy Spikes of Me-Moes. After enlisting the help of Paul Claxton of Southern Collaborative, the team realized they were on to something. A place was secured, branding was created and other makers were invited to join in what would hopefully grow into a lasting presence in the Mid City neighborhood. Out of their quick brainstorming, a maker’s dream was born. I would love to introduce you to the Mid City Makers Market!
(from left to right: Paul, Justin, Madeline and Dawson)
Meet the Makers
We live in a busy world where corporations and big box stores take up a lot of space in our lives. Especially with kids, time and convenience tend to play a role in how we shop. The beautiful draw about this market is that you get to leave that behind, come out to a collective back yard space, eat good food and meet actual people who are artists and makers from every background imaginable. The team is very intentional about curating a variety of talented folks to showcase their handmade items including baked goods, jewelry, ceramics, art, horticulture and so much more!
Finding Special Pieces Made with Passion and Purpose
I have so much respect for people who use their talents to make goods that can bring joy to others. It truly fills my soul even more to give a gift to someone what was carefully crafted with passion & purpose. At the Mid City Makers Market, that’s exactly what you will find. You may even come across an item that you had been longing for but never could find. The first time that I visited the market, I came upon a piece of art by Chad Schoonmaker. I’ve had a blank wall in my home for 4 years that was just waiting for the “right piece” but I would not settle until I found it. When I saw this painting, I knew it was the one. Now, every time I look at that piece of art, I am grateful for Chad’s talent and the place from where I got it.
Fostering Connection in the Community
I always love a good reason to meet fellow neighbors in our community. Being that I’m not from Baton Rouge originally, branching out is how I have come to meet some of the best people! I happen to live on the opposite side of town but that doesn’t stop me from coming to Mid City to meet new people and see the diverse talent that is at the market. This is a community effort and all are welcome. Who wouldn’t want to join the fun and shop a little while eating yummy food, listening to music and playing games?
Encouraging Growth and Commerce
This makers market is right in the heart of the charming and historical Mid City. There is a true effort from many in the community to continue fostering the roots and diversity here. By providing our business to local merchants, the economy and community efforts in this area can continue to thrive and grow.
Family Fun
Believe me, there is no shortage of entertainment and fun for both parents and kids! All four of the leaders of this event have small children so a family friendly environment is the goal for this monthly neighborhood event. When I took my kids for the first time, there was a large table sprinkled with a variety of materials for the kids to create a craft. We took home a cute piece of art that my son proudly displayed in his room.
As a parent, I love what the Mid City Makers Market stands for. I’m excited to bring my family to a friendly neighborhood environment where I can find some really cool items while meeting new people from around the Baton Rouge area. Grab your planner and mark down these upcoming dates seen HERE. The creators are constantly pushing themselves to think outside of the box by connecting with other local movers and shakers to bring as much to the community as possible! This is a great example of the dedication, diversity, growth and community that we can foster right here in our own backyard!
