Shopping and Art Collide at Midlands Artisans Market in Columbia
Columbia, S.C. — If you found yourself browsing the lively streets of Columbia recently, you might have stumbled upon a hidden gem: the Midlands Artisans Market at Sesquicentennial State Park. This bustling event is the perfect spot to stretch those shopping bags as you discover one-of-a-kind treasures that come with their own captivating stories from local artisans!
A Whirlwind of Creativity
As you walk through the market, every turn reveals a new vendor with something extraordinary to offer. Take, for instance, Cross and Nail Leathers, owned by the dynamic duo of Paul and Susan Haynes. Their handmade leather goods—ranging from personalized wallets to nifty air tag holders—grabbed attention from passersby. Paul shared a sneak peek into their intricate craftsmanship, saying, “The process is cutting these out, most of them are by hand. Some of them have dyes, and I use the heavy-duty stitching because that’s usually where a wallet’s gonna break down.”
With just five years under their belt, the Haynes are already making waves, with customers getting a jump on holiday shopping. Paul mentions, “We’re already getting orders for some wallets for gifts for Christmas already. So, yeah. And if you’re going to put in an order, the sooner the better because it takes a while to do this. To cut it out, hand stitch it.” Nothing like a little preparation to ensure your loved ones receive custom gifts!
Self-Care with a Local Twist
Another treat for shoppers was a fresh face at the market—Valerie Traylor and her self-care boutique, Swank on Ya. Having moved to South Carolina just over a year ago, she quickly built her business, filled with handmade beauty products designed to encourage self-love and pampering. Valerie spoke passionately about her creations, noting, “Magnesium, using it topically is something that can help and I make that product by hand.” Her enthusiasm is infectious, and shoppers are eager to peek at her unique offerings!
Community Spirit Shines Bright
The spirit of support was palpable throughout the market—not just from vendors enthusiastically discussing their crafts but from buyers like Nakia Roberson. She shared her thoughts on the importance of supporting local artisans, explaining, “It’s usually really good to have that feeling because you know somebody’s gonna come and buy it, and most of the time, they come back and get it from you so it can be a Christmas gift. It’s a phenomenal feeling to be able to have your stuff displayed in somebody else’s house.”
Shop Local, Shop Unique
As the market drew in crowds, it became evident why such events foster a sense of community and connection in Columbia. Shoppers left not just with bags filled to the brim with creative finds but also with a deeper appreciation for the artisans who pour their hearts into every piece.
So, whether you’re hunting for that perfect handmade gift or just looking to enjoy a fun day out, the Midlands Artisans Market offers a sensory feast that’s not to be missed. With unique crafts and a friendly atmosphere, it’s clear that this local event is establishing itself as a staple in Columbia—making shopping, relaxing, and community-building feel like a walk in the park!
