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Natural Awakenings Milwaukee Magazine

Milwaukee Makers Market Celebrates Our Local Makers Community

May 01, 2022 12:00AM ● By Sheila Julson
Artist Ryan Laessig had a simple mission when he founded Milwaukee Makers Market in 2015: support local. Since its beginnings as a small outdoor event at Colectivo Coffee’s Bay View location, Milwaukee Makers Market has grown into one of the largest, continuously running art, craft and maker markets in the area, held at various spaces throughout Milwaukee. Participating vendors include seasoned crafters, artists, freelance designers, small-business owners and full-time makers.

The 2022 Milwaukee Markers Market events are held monthly through December. The next event takes place on May 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Ivy House. The remaining events are held on June 19, July 17, August 21, September 18, October 16, November 26 and December 18, at either The Ivy House or Discovery World Museum. Admission is free. COVID-19 safety precautions are in place.

“Milwaukee Makers Market is so much more than a maker and artisan fair. It’s a celebration of Milwaukee’s creators and our local community,” says Laessig. He curates each market to create a perfect opportunity for small business owners to sell their wares and make connections with fans and other makers.

Laessig adds that Milwaukee Makers Market has developed a loyal fan base that appreciates the safe, fun and unique one-stop-shop market experience. Attendees can find myriad paintings, illustrations, stained glass works, crafted wood pieces, ceramics, candles, soap, magnets, stickers, artisan foods and more.

The selection of vendors is well thought-out in every way, Laessig notes, from which makers are at the event to the type of products offered. He strives to have a diverse array of many different products so that there is no oversaturation of like items. Attendees have the opportunity to meet the makers, see exactly where the products are coming from and learn the stories behind the people crafting the products.

“When you are supporting a local small business, you are supporting someone’s dream,” Laessig affirms.

May location: The Ivy House, 906 S. Barclay St., Milwaukee. For more information and a complete schedule, visit MilwaukeeMakersMarket.com.