Jennie Meiklejohn, the founder of the River and Wren markets, said she is so pleased with the success of the event.

“It’s grown from a market of 50 odd stallholders to 118 today,” she said.

“I am blown away by the support the local community has shown handmade and to see the market evolve is wonderful.

“When we first started there was a mentality of bargaining, people didn't value handmade.”

Ms Meiklejohn said now that has changed, people will pay the advertised price.

“People now appreciate the time and passion gone into the products,” she said.

“I am so grateful to the community for supporting the market.” 

The mother-daughter duo behind Blue Pear Giftware, Simone and Maria Feltrin, hand-painted glassware and novelty items said they love having a stall at the markets. 

“We started here at River and Wren in November 2016 and we haven’t missed a single one,” Simone said. 

“We love coming to the markets here because it has such a nice atmosphere and vibe. 

“Jennie does an incredible job with everything.” 

The pair are both full-time teachers and enjoy being able to use their business as a creative outlet, Simone said. 

“It’s all about bringing pops of colour to people’s homes,” Maria said. 

Belinda Roberts, owner of Loop to Loop specialises in macrame wall hangings. 

“I hand-knot everything by myself,” she said.

“I travel all the way from Cowra and this is my third market here with River and Wren.

“People who come through really respect your work and the hours you put into it and that makes such a difference.” 

Bryce Hagen, the founder of Get Knotted, is only 14 and has already set up his own business at the markets. 

“I make custom bowties that fits everyone’s personality,” he said. 

“I have been designing them myself and making them myself since February last year. 

“I have been coming to the markets since I started and I think it’s a really great market.”

Bryce bases his designs on current trends and customer’s personal requests. 

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