On Saturday, Dec. 14, Mahall’s hosted their first annual Christkindlmarket. Inspired by the tradition of European Christmas markets, it was a hit, providing Lakewood shoppers with the perfect place to grab some Christmas gifts this holiday season. The event had options for all ages, featuring not only shopping but also festive bowling and pictures with Santa. The market also highlighted different food options for shoppers to enjoy after shopping at all the tables. The event was full of people all day, coming and going, creating a fun, active environment, and highlighting the community spirit of Lakewood.
The event showcased over 30 vendors selling all different types of products, making it easy for shoppers to find the perfect gift for everyone on their list. There was a wide variety of products, including soaps, lotions, candy, vintage clothing, and other handmade items. Everyone who attended was sure to find something special for themselves or loved ones.
Kendel Conde, owner of Junebug Paper Co., typically attends Mahall’s events, and this Christmas market was no exception. Conde was able to sell out some of her products, including the handmade ornaments she created. She sells custom-made greeting cards, stickers, art prints, pet portraits, and more.
“People love my little vinyl stickers, they put them on water bottles and laptops,” Conde said.
For Scarlett Loach, owner of Painting for Fun, this was her first time selling her products at Mahall’s, and it gave her the opportunity to show off all her products and hard work. Loach is a self-taught artist who paints on all different types of materials.
“I started my business during quarantine, and it just flourished from there,” Loach said. “I sell a lot of hand-painted items, and during the holidays it’s more ornaments, but then during the summer, it’s more records and upcycled projects.”
For lots of vendors, markets like this one are the perfect opportunity to sell their products and show off their business since more people are out looking for gifts during the holiday season.
“Holiday markets are normally when more people come out and shop this time of the year, so I normally do pretty well,” Conde said.
By highlighting all of these small businesses this season, Mahall’s allows them to grow their business and build connections in the community.
“They’re pretty good about using the same artists every time,” Conde said.
Christmas markets like Mahall’s Christkindlmarket are excellent places for small businesses to flourish because consumers can discover some of their favorite businesses and products and become frequent customers.
While vendors sell their products and promote their business, they also spread holiday cheer to all their shoppers.
“I love seeing people’s faces when they find the ornament they love,” Loach said.
Customers gain personal connections that enhance their shopping experience. Moments like the ones Loach and other vendors experience capture the essence of the holiday season and make the market events enjoyable.
The Christkindlmarket was a hit for all shoppers involved.
“For their first year, I think they’ve done a really good job,” Marilyn Scott said.
Scott took full advantage of the event, walking around Mahall’s and shopping for the long list of people for whom she had to get gifts.
During or after browsing the tables, shoppers had the opportunity to grab a bite to eat and something to drink. Mahall’s featured a special drink and food menu just for the market. Two hit items were hot chocolate and potato pancakes. Mahall’s also offered a special holiday souvenir mug to all who ordered a hot drink, something for them to remember the market by.
The holiday season is in full swing in Lakewood, giving community members a chance to enjoy this special time of year. The Mahall’s Christkindlmarket will be a holiday hit for years to come.
