Artisan Alley extends farmers’ market experience into winter

While the farmers market may be over, Artisan Alley is here to fill its shoes. The Artisan Alley will begin on Nov. 7 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at 124 E Walnut St. and will continue every Saturday until Dec. 12 in the Bellin Building.

Ashley Gauthier is the main event planner for Artisan Alley, and started the Alley to support other creatives like herself. She noticed that after the Farmers Market there were no other events like it, and decided to fill that need.

“So for me, bringing in all of these other vendors who are doing the exact same thing I am as a small business owner, we’re trying to connect with the community,” she said.

The event is only in its second year but there have been big lessons learned from its first.

“Last year, we started planning beforehand. It was kind of a last minute idea…” Gauthier said. “So this year, I started planning in April.”

Another big change for this year is an increase in available space to work with for the vendors, meaning a better set up for artists and shoppers alike. Artisan Alley is set to host between 20 to 25 booths each Saturday, with the artists changing each time there is always something new to discover.

“Some vendors are returning again. Some will be here all season. Some will be here one day,” Gauthier said.
A few of the consistent returners for the season include jewelers, and bakers. The market will be hosted in the same building as the Daily Buzz, who will have their espresso bar open during the alley.

The final major change this year is the addition of events set up for each Saturday alongside the vendor booths.
“It’s not the actual market. Like we’re not necessarily trying to sell things, but they’re more hands-on activities that will happen here in the building,” Gauthier said.

Some of these include a Santa photo shoot, creating your own flower centerpieces and more.

Each Saturday will have something different.

For more information about the Artisan Alley, visit the Facebook event page at facebook.com/events/856473980255166/856476336921597/ or contact Ashley Gauthier at ashley@crownash.com.

Pass It Forward™ editorial is sponsored by Packers Give Back, Nicolet National Bank and the National Trust for Local News.