“Art has never been so important to keep us going after this year” – Online Festive Makers Markets aims to support small creative businesses

Covid-19 won’t stop the annual Festive Makers Market promoting small businesses sharing their crafts this Christmas.

Although the Salford University market can’t operate physically this year, they can digitally. The market has made its move to an online platform to keep shining a light on art.

The market opened in 2016 as an opportunity for university students, societies, and staff to promote their creative ventures outside of their studies.

While the stalls may be student lead, the Online Festive Makers Markets is open to all of Salford to shop this Christmas.

16 shops are set to take part in the online market. Each featured business will link directly to their own shop and social media.

Laura Prestbury, Online Festive Makers Markets coordinator, promises lots of handmade goods and Christmas decorations. In past years, one of her favourite finds have been cat coasters by the society turned charity for Cancer Awareness for Teens and 20s.

The online market will open from 6th December 2020 and will remain online through to 2021 in an effort to support and showcase the small businesses to the community.

Besides purchasing some crafts, the market organisers hope that it will inspire others and get their creative juices flowing.

“Keep going with your creative projects. Art has never been so important to keep us going after this year. I think just if you’ve got an idea, just do it and let us know if you want us to support you with it. Keep being creative,” Laura said offering a place in the market for students wanting to get their work out there.

Want to support some small businesses? The Online Festive Makers Market will be available for everyone from 6th December 2020.