A magical Makers Market

By Laura Ross

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Communications Manager

Now in its third year, I caught up with Gesine Garz, Manager of the Discovery Centre, to find out what she loves about the Festive Makers Market. 

What can people expect from the weekend?

We will have over 20 exhibitors over the two days at the Discovery Centre. The Discovery Centre isn’t just a venue with wonderful views, it’s also an amazing, adaptable community hub. With the attention to detail that’s going into organising the space, the Centre will be showing some special 'winter plumage' for the event. Our shop will have Christmas stock on display, and we will be opening up the whole of the education and exhibition space to host one, big market area.

It's a lovely opportunity to purchase beautiful, handmade gifts from local artists and makers and entry is free, so just pop in and have a look around. There will be greeting cards, prints, baby wear, felted ornaments, stained glass, jewellery, honey, chocolate, homeware, photography and more. The café will also be in full festive swing, with Christmas treats and gorgeous decorations in the shop too.

Why do you think local Markers Markets are so special?

It's great to promote local talent. It’s also really exciting for us to discover new makers every year when we advertise our market. This is a special time of year, when we start thinking about giving gifts to loved ones. The Makers Market gives people an opportunity to purchase something unique and very personal.

How have you curated the stallholders you’ve chosen?

We do this by looking at the quality and uniqueness of the artists’ work. We also ensure that we have a wide variety of different arts and crafts on offer. Everything has to be handmade. We try and feature some new makers every year. 

What are you hoping to find in your stocking this year?

I'm a big fan of locally-made food. So, hopefully some tasty treats will be delivered by Father Christmas!

Don't forget to stick the dates in your diary - 18-19th November, from 10am - 4pm.