Market Collective: Spring 2015

Contributed by Emma Callin

I'm definitely one of "those people" who like to get my Christmas shopping done well before December rolls around; some years I've gotten everything by the time summer ends!  As crazy as that sounds it's not too hard to understand why when there are so many neat fairs and markets in Calgary throughout the year.  It's easy to find great gifts when there's so much to choose from... I will admit to buying a few things for myself as well!  ^_~*

Jameela Ghann of Alora Boutique

One local craft fair is Market Collective, held last weekend in the Chinese Cultural Centre downtown.  There were several local businesses whose pieces we have previously exhibited at Studio Intent, such as Alora Boutique, North Birch Grove and Forge Apparel.  New loves include the hilarious cards at Port Paper Co., sweet solid shampoos at Lavami Soaps, cool terrariums from Plant and funky home decor from Amanda Parker.  There was also a booth for the Artist Collective from the New Canadian Friendship Centre, an initiative to help immigrants successfully integrate into their new lives here in Calgary.

Amy Victoria Wakefield of North Birch Grove

The New Canadian Friendship Centre provides help with gaining Canadian citizenship, finding employment, ESL classes and also homework help for children of immigrant families.  They also provide warm clothing free of charge to new immigrants - since I've never forgotten my own transition from tropical Singapore to Calgary in the middle of winter, this stands out as a wonderful service!

New Canadian Friendship Centre Artist Collective

The Artist Collective - a new program for the NCFC - sells handicrafts made by the immigrants at the Centre, some of the items showcasing traditional crafting methods from their home country.  Buying local and knowing that the money also goes to a good cause is a wonderful feeling!

Travis Deglow of Port Paper Co.

The other reason I enjoy going to local fairs is meeting the people behind the businesses.  Buying and owning something where you know the inspiration/story behind the item makes the purchase more meaningful and less likely to be an impulse buy that is thrown away later.  There's also the option to ask for a custom order - not something you can usually do in a traditional retail setting!

Noni Doig of Lavami Soap

And if you get thirsty/hungry/tired, Market Collective also hosts a number of food vendors and musicians!  You can always have a seat and just enjoy the atmosphere.  ^_^

Plant Terrariums

If you missed Market Collective last weekend and would like to check it out, keep an eye on their website for their next event!

Amanda Parker home decor