A group of small business owners have joined together to organise a market event in Swindon to show off local artisan projects. 

Sisters Emily and Elizabeth Hughes are working with their friend Savannah Ward to organise the second Swindon Eclectic Market event, set to take place at Meca on Sunday, August 4, following the success of their first event in April.  

Emily owns ‘The Hallowed Crystal’, selling ethically sourced crystals from around the world, Savannah is a Reiki master and offers holistic healing as well as natural beauty and wellness products and Beth owns ‘U Be You Paint’ selling spray paints and arts and crafts products.

Emily said: “We love attending other Swindon markets. It brings such a community vibe and feel, all while supporting small, local businesses."

Some of the businesses that will be selling their unique products include Wildwood Jewellery, whose owner Charlie makes handmade pieces using recycled Sterling Silver, Gold and gemstones, Crafty Bean, a Swindon-based business ran by sisters Alex and Elizabeth offering a range of handmade gifts and crafts and handmade soap from Cabin & Cowshed, based in Highworth.

Local businesses will be selling their handmade productsLocal businesses will be selling their handmade products (Image: Swindon Eclectic Market)

“Our intention is for locals to have a diverse range of quality goods made by Swindon’s finest makers, bakers and entrepreneurs. Our goal is focused on providing something for all the family – men, women and children alike. We try to ensure that shoppers have something to everyone’s taste and even something for everyone to do”, Emily explained.

“At our August event we have children’s and adult’s crafting activities, such as pottery painting and custom item design like key rings and pencil cases. We will even have a tattoo artist Gigi Inkdesigns with us for the day.

“There will be 64 local artisans plus food and sweet treat vendors. We are holding a giveaway for a special someone to win a £50 golden ticket to spend with a stall holder of their choice. If this has a positive response from the community then we hope to make this a feature at future markets.

“We would love for the public to leave with smiles on their faces, feeling as if it was a day well spent. Excited and anticipating future markets to come.”

The trio are also looking ahead to Christmas and planning festive themed markets on Sunday, November 24 and Sunday, December 8.