Christmas may only happen once a year, but that hasn't bothered the organizers of the Refresh Market.
Having debuted in 2011 as a Christmas market, the event is poised to break out of the Yuletide mould with a spring-themed event taking place at the West Coast Heritage Railway Park's CN Roundhouse on April 27.
We've had two winter markets that have been so successful we thought that we'd love to make this more than just an annual event, said co-organizer Rachel Boguski. We're doing this because we truly believe that we're offering something for the community that's fun, free and family friendly with a cool and creative vibe.
The market combines traditional European bazaars with indie craft fairs, vintage flea markets and retail for what organizers say is a unique shopping experience. A total of 35 vendors, with about two-thirds coming from outside Squamish, will display their wares.
We thought if we can keep people from having to drive to the city for things like this that everybody wins, she said.
Boguski said there will also be a handful of locals with displays such as Billie's Flower House, Stock Home Design, Anniebuttons and Endured Upcycled Designs. Some of the Lower Mainland-based vendors include: Brick and Mortar Living from New Westminster, Vancouver's Sarita Mann Design Studios and North Vancouver's Delish General Store.
The past two Refresh Markets were held at the Squamish Adventure Centre and Boguski said moving to the CN Roundhouse Centre will give her and co-organizer Shannon Lorenz more space and potential.
From an organizational point, it makes our job much easier because we can give the people all the space they need, she said. We're not as cramped and it also allows us to do more programming we don't have to say no to people.
Boguski pointed out that there will be several workshops hosted by vendors going on throughout the day. There will be a space to make fabric cuffs, a knitting workshop, a build-your-own terrarium activity, a collage party and a vintage photo booth.
Admission to the market and workshops are free but there is a suggested donation, with all proceeds going to the Squamish Helping Hands Society.
We're hoping to give them a big chunk of cash for all that they do for the community, she said.
Boguski said she and Lorenz aren't thinking about expanding the market between the twice yearly plans, but that the duo are all about bringing the good stuff to Squamish.
For more information on the market, visit www.refreshmarket.ca or their Facebook page by searching Refresh Market.
