Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Higley.
Hi Chelsea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In January 2020, I started a side business called Essential Healing. I was able to get one craft show in before the world shut down due to Covid. I found that many local makers, including myself, were now struggling to make sales and get our products seen. I created a virtual vendor market for Wisconsin-based handmade small businesses. These markets ran for about two years during that time. Many of the vendors were asking for my advice on general business-related things. As events started to open back up in late 2021, I started hosting in-person vendor markets called Wisconsin Maker Market. During this, I realized that while I thoroughly love creating, I also really enjoyed helping others make their businesses successful. I wanted to expand the reach of Wisconsin Makers Market and decided that opening a store would be the next step.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am passionate about Wisconsin Makers Market and what the future looks like. There were smooth parts of the road. And, of course, there were also rough spots. That’s business. It’s scary and thrilling at the same time. I have overcome the struggles and will continue to do so to the best of my ability.
We’ve been impressed with Wisconsin Makers Market, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Wisconsin Makers Market store allows vendors to choose between general consignment and monthly pop-up shops. It has a seating area and Wisconsin-made food and drinks and hosts workshops where makers, creators, artists, etc., can help the community learn a new skill. The vendor markets aim to create more of an experience than general craft fairs. The markets only have handmade small businesses, live music, Sip N Shops, and food trucks, and are working on hosting larger events.
I have big plans for the future as well. I hope to move into a bigger space in the next year or two, so I can offer more and bigger workshops, have a larger community space, and more!
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some changes you expect to see over the next five to ten years?
Our community has been shifting to shopping small and handmade in recent years, and I see that continuing.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wisconsinmakersmarket.com
- Instagram: @wisconsinmakersmarket
- Facebook: facebook.com/wisconsinmakersmarket
Image Credits
Leslie Duffy Photography Wisconsin Makers Market
