St. Joseph community market embraces local businesses

May 25—As warm weather starts to set in for good, also comes the start of the monthly community market.

The community market, located at 1202 Felix Street, gathers residents to support local businesses in the community.

The market started at the Justice Outreach and Yoga Center at the Center for Joy and eventually blossomed into the community market.

"We appreciate creation, and we want to do everything we can to be a part of creation and the environment and encourage people to take care of the environment," said Diane Waddell, co-coordinator for the market.

They started right after the southside market ended. They knew they had a great space and wanted to share that with others.

"We all enjoy that once a month and that's just a great time to get together," Waddell said.

The market features a wide variety of vendors such as Sandra, who does spinning and crochet with all natural yarn. They also have a vendor who sells grass fed beef and Tracy, master gardener, who sell native plants and fresh herbs.

New this year is OTB Henna. They offer temporary henna tattoos that last 1-3 weeks. They have an assortment of designs and styles to choose from or you can create a custom design.

Matthew Geckley, owner of OTB Henna says he's really excited to be a part of the community market.

"It's just really nice to get out and actually engage with members of the community just and get out and get some fresh air," Geckley said.

He enjoys seeing the young people learn and be involved with some of the businesses. He believes that the community market is a great place for people to come together and for businesses to promote themselves.

"Especially in a market like Saint Joe. Everything's so reputation oriented," said Geckley.

"People talk a lot and so it's really important to just get out here so they can see who you are as a business owner. People really respond to that."

OTB Henna plans on being a part of the community for years to come.

"[I want to] just see how the business grows and get to know more people and build a clientele. It's nice to see people come back," he said.

Waddell says her favorite part is being able to invite the community into the beautiful space and experiencing a sense of togetherness when it comes to sharing goods.

"We're taking care of each other and taking care of the environment at the same time," Waddell said.

"We are grateful. We express gratitude for the space and for the community. So honestly, I think it is a place where I can appreciate friendship and local vendors."

Be sure to visit the market yourself and check out all the different vendors and creations they have to offer. The market is open every fourth Saturday except in September.

In November, they're also hosting a fair trade and holiday market so be sure to check that out as well.