Charlotte pop-up market to bring handmade and vintage decor

There are dozens of micro-business owners who sell interesting handmade and vintage furniture and accessories right here in the Charlotte area.
But finding these local businesses can be tricky. Many don’t have a showroom or public space. They may sell through online markets such as Etsy and promote their brands through social media.
Here’s a chance to visit some of these operations. Vintage Charlotte’s winter pop-up market returns to The Fillmore at the NC Music Factory on Nov. 15. Sixty-three local and regional vendors will exhibit, and three to four times as many applied.
“I don’t think you can find this type of variety ... anywhere else in Charlotte,” said Amy Herman, one of the organizers. “It’s a very unique mix.”
At least half of the vendors sell home decor. Jewelry, clothing, stationery and other items also will be available. Luce Antica will sell lighting made from recycled industrial pieces, such as the ones above. About 2,500 people are expected, and vendors are always eager to meet local shoppers face-to-face.
“There’s kind of a new model of business where you start online because it’s easier and it’s smaller and there is less startup,” Herman said. “But it’s lonely out there.”

Karen’s blog: http://homelifeclt.blogspot.com; on Twitter @sullivan_kms

Pop up market brings vintage and handmade goods

Sometimes the best new item for decorating your home is a piece with a little age on it – or something made by an artist whose work makes a statement.
That’s the idea behind Vintage Charlotte, a company started two years ago by transplant Amy Herman. The company rents vintage table decor for weddings and other events. Vintage Charlotte also presents pop-up markets where visitors can buy repurposed and handmade items.
The third pop-up Summer Market will be June 14 at The Fillmore, at NC Music Factory. (www.vintage-charlotte.com)
“I hope to just be an alternative local, sustainable option, whether it’s for the rental side or the pop-up markets,” said Herman.
More than 50 vendors will participate, selling housewares, furniture, decor, clothing, jewelry and other goods. A few will sell food and drinks.
About 1,600 people attended the last Summer Market, and about 2,200 turned out for a Holiday Market.
People are interested in vintage items, Herman said, because they often cost less than new products and they tend to be well-made. “They’ve already been around for 20 years,” she said.
Buying handmade items at the market gives shoppers the chance to talk to the artist and learn about a product’s value, Herman said.
Admission to the market is free beginning at 11 a.m. Get in at 10 a.m. with an early-bird admission fee of $5.

Karen’s blog: http://homelifeclt.blog<code_dp>spot.com; on Twitter @sullivan_kms