Artisans make their pitch at Etsy spring market
The Etsy spring market took place at La Cité des Prairies on Saturday. Showcasing local makers, artisans and sellers of rare items, it is hoped events like the marketplace might open up new opportunities to creating a more vibrant local economy, said Etsy Lethbridge Team Captain and event co-organizer Kaitlyn Hubert.
“Cottage industries is really where we started as Canadians, and I think bringing that back and stimulating the economy that way,” she said. “We have had kind of a dip in Alberta these past few years, and it is nice to make money locally, keep it local and help families. It is not an easy way to make a living, but it is all about the passion. This market allows us to showcase those artisans and creators, and to show the (broader) community what is really here.”
The event had a good turnout, and Hubert was hopeful the fall Etsy market might be able to build on that success later this year.
“We try to encourage local entrepreneurs, moms and dads, who are working from home,” she said. “Hand-made is the biggest thing with most our products here. We also have some vintage item sellers that are here to sell things that have that nostalgic feel to them.”