MAKER’S MARKET
3069 Dundas St West
Like many others, Kendra Sartorelli found herself looking for a new career during the pandemic. As an artistic person with a passion for supporting fellow artists and small businesses, Kendra had the idea to create an innovative space where small artisanal producers could come together, sell their products, and benefit from the collaboration of bringing a talented and passionate group of artists together. Turning such a dream into reality is no easy feat, but luckily, Kendra had the support of her family, who could support her while she got her business up and running. Opening in September 2020, Maker’s Market is a flexible and affordable retail space that combines dozens of small Ontario artisans, artists, and producers in a single innovative and convenient space. Kendra’s decision to open Maker’s Market in the Junction was easy, having lived and worked in the area for 11 years. The community’s vibrant creative spirit provided the perfect backdrop for her artisanal market, which features products made by small producers. The name Maker’s Market reflects this commitment to showcasing local talent and craftsmanship.
Starting a store built around bringing people artisanal products was a natural choice for Kendra, as she could use her experience in retail management, sales, and curating art exhibits. Being immersed in a creative environment also allowed her to indulge her creative side, which can be seen in her designs of the logo and branding of the store, as well as a wall full of her original artwork and merchandise on location. Maker’s Market also fits Kendra’s support and vision for local shopping, as she knows locally run businesses keep money in the community, are more sustainable, and keep prices down and quality up. Kendra has been thrilled to see the community support from people who share her vision and desire to shop locally.
Maker’s Market specializes in handcrafted and locally designed goods created by Ontario-based, small-scale producers. When the store opened, there were 60 member businesses renting space, and that number has risen to over 160! The range of products there is vast, from clay jewellery to taxidermy, custom Toronto-themed clothing to handmade teddy bears. There’s always something new at the market; you never know what you’ll find, except it will be local, creative, and fabulous! This variety is made possible by the subscription membership system at Maker’s Market, where vendors keep 100% of their sales and have the opportunity to make Maker’s Market the home of their brand. This allows them to increase or reduce their display space as needed, which also benefits shoppers because there is a constantly rotating lineup of interesting vendors and products.
In her free time, Kendra loves to paint. You’ll see her original artwork on display and for sale at the Market; she’s particularly fond of the fun monster paintings designed to make you laugh. Kendra adores the local vibe of the area, feeling that the Junction is getting more artsy every day, and looks forward to staying in a positive community that helps small businesses thrive. As she has lived in the Junction area for over a decade, she loves frequenting local businesses and does her shopping at nearby stores. One of her favourites is Sweet Trolley Bakery, across the street from Maker’s Market. She loves the friendly staff there, as well as the delicious pies!
As a small business owner and artist herself, Kendra is passionate about supporting local small businesses and artisans, keeping businesses in the community, and fostering sustainable shopping practices. Kendra is delighted to be able to contribute to this vision for the community with Maker’s Market. She is grateful to her friends, family, customers and fellow small producers for allowing her to create this unique and exciting concept. For more information, especially on new small producers in the market, check out their website, Facebook, and Instagram.
Member of the Month
Our Member of the Month features will shine a light on the businesses within the Junction and allow customers to get to know their neighbours who run the shops in our community. If you are a Junction BIA business interested in sharing your story with us and being featured by The Junction BIA, contact Carol Jolly, Executive Director.
