I recently popped to Salt Rock to visit my friend, Wilna Cremer at her market. Whacky Market is her current project which was created through a clever marketing concept, in turn it has allowed fellow creatives to showcase and sell their products. Wilna provides a platform for creatives, with a variety of different skills and creative styles. Her main focus is on giving them a place within the market community.
I chatted to Wilna to hear more about the concept, her ideas and her latest accolade...
Why did you decide to organise a market?
I originally started the market as a gimmick to market a craft shop I was working with and to highlight the stores in the centre. The market was so successful that the stallholders asked me to host another one and it grew from there.
What were some of the steps you took to begin the process?
I started asking around for vendors and stallholders, organised some press releases and invited everybody I could possibly think of.
Tell us more about the entrepreneur competition you are currently taking part in.
The entrepreneur competition is run by the Ilembe Chamber of Commerce and it’s a mentoring programme for new / small businesses. Originally I didn’t think the Whacky Market was worthy of entering, but in the process of writing the application letter, I realised it was the perfect platform for the dream project I had in mind.
What advice would you give to creatives who would like to start a business?
Be as original as possible, do lots of research, know current trends, get plenty of business advice and assistance. As creatives we are not generally good on the “business side”, but don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Whacky Market provides a platform for crafters, artists and creative people to sell their products, but it also gives them a way with which to grow their confidence. How does it make you feel to know that you are assisting fellow creatives in this way?
Helping fellow creatives is really the most rewarding experience, I pass on as much knowledge as I can. I’m passionate about empowering people, especially women and I love the sense of community that is developing within the market, my stallholders know that I do the best I can for them.
I had a lovely morning browsing around and chatting to the stallholders. I particularly loved the cupcakes (obviously) and this beautiful jug and bowl set, it is very Cath Kidston inspired and the colours are beautiful. The market is small, but growing each month. There are a variety of different products available, including snacks, biscuits, beautiful printed cushions created by a photographer, art, beaded accessories, hand-crafted toys and bags as well as small decor items.
Contact Wilna for more details or to become a stallholder - 076 459 6694
Whacky Market is held on the last Saturday of the month: The next one is on the 27th July
53 Basil Hullet Drive
Salt Rock