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WHEELING - Spring flowers and decorating soon will be on the minds of many, and Wheeling Heritage is planning a spring market to happen before Mother's Day.
The return of "Handmade Holiday: Spring Market" is being planned for May 4, and Wheeling Heritage is seeking the talent of local creative entrepreneurs and artisans to participate.
“We are always excited to bring together so many talented artisans through Handmade Holiday," said Alex Panas, program manager at Wheeling Heritage. "It’s a great platform for makers without traditional storefronts because it allows them to connect with their customers in person.
"Shoppers also have the advantage of finding unique, often one-of-a-kind, items while supporting small businesses – it’s a win-win.”
Vendor applications are now being accepted. Interested artisans are encouraged to submit their applications by the deadline of Friday, Feb. 23. To ensure a fair selection process, a committee will review each application, considering factors such as craftsmanship, creativity, and presentation, Panas said.
Vendors interested in applying should do so online at wheelingheritage.org/handmade- holiday-spring-market/.
The cost to apply is $5, and the cost to participate is $45.
Applicants who are accepted will be notified by March 8.
"We are looking for items that are handmade. We tend to favor those over mass-produced," Panas said. "We are also looking for items that show a high quality of craftsmanship. Woodworking and ceramics do well."
Since spring is not traditionally "a big shopping time of year," the event presents makers with a good opportunity to sell smaller gift items such as handcrafted jewelry or mugs that are popular for Mother's Day.
Outdoor and garden decor also sells well at the spring event.
Handmade Holiday is set to happen from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 4 on the third floor of the Wheeling Artisan Center. Patrons will be able to shop for such items as handcrafted goods, original artwork, prints, mugs and more.
The Wheeling Artisan Center has been going through a major renovation which should be completed by the time of Handmade Holiday: Spring Market.
A new tenant, The Prodigal Daughter, is moving in on the first floor this week. The Artisan Center shop on the second floor is also expected to be open on the first floor by then, according to Panas.
"This will be one of our first events after the renovation," she said. "Guests will get to shop upstairs, but hopefully they also will be able to visit the new tenant on the first floor."