Trueblue Makers market headed for Bay
Regular marketgoers who feel they have been to it all and got the T-shirt can look forward to a fresh, upmarket twist on artisanal fairs when Trueblue Makers hits Gqeberha from October 7 to 9.
This exclusive exhibitionstyle event will showcase the work of 35 hand-picked creators, designers and artisans from across SA, many of whom have never displayed their products in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Organiser Elsje Smuts said the intention was to create a high-end gathering of creatives who featured limited collections with an emphasis on quality, exclusivity and bespoke design.
“It’s really exciting to be able to bring something fresh like this to our city,” Smuts said.
She said the Grey High School facade would provide a fitting backdrop for the pop-up event.
The event, which is set up similarly to a stylish shop, will feature beautiful shabby chic and antique furniture pieces by local company Herbie’s Buyers and Sellers.
“The exhibitors will appear by invitation only,” Smuts said.
“Visitors will know many of them from their beautiful Instagram profiles, but now they will be able to see and buy their products in person.
“On offer will be a selection of previously unseen delights ranging from clothing, jewellery and luxury leather goods to natural skincare, homeware and ceramics.”
The highlight of this year’s exhibition will be a collaboration between Trueblue Makers and the NMU interior design department who will be responsible for the look and feel of the pop-up.
The students will be placed in teams and given an opportunity to pitch their design ideas with only one team’s design being chosen as the winning design.
“Thank you to Spec-Savers for sponsoring the students’ designs, as they fully support youth vision for the future.”
Smuts, who is also the organiser of the annual Christmas in the Home market, said the luxury items would be displayed in a shop-style set-up instead of traditional stalls, with a central pay point for added shopping convenience.
“The venue, food and entertainment will complement the standard and style of the goods on offer, promising a bespoke shopping experience,” she said.
The event will run from 9am to 7pm on October 7, 9am to 4pm on October 8 and 9am until 2pm on October 9.