Wisconsin Handmade Market Connects Local Artisans with Community in Historic Space

Stevens Point, WI – August 1, 2024 – As small business owners navigate the complexities of 2024, including rising costs and the challenges of operating without a physical storefront, innovative solutions are emerging to help them thrive. One such solution is the Wisconsin Handmade Market, an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between Central Wisconsin artisans and their local customers.

Bridget Chariton, owner of Cherry Tree Creatives and a polymer clay jewelry maker, began participating in makers markets across Wisconsin in 2023. During her travels, Chariton identified a significant gap in opportunities for Central Wisconsin artisans to connect with their customers and supporters.

“There is a unique energy at a market – the excitement of meeting customers, seeing them interact with your goods, and networking with fellow makers is unparalleled. In today’s one-click shopping era, artisans need opportunities to share their products and forge personal connections with their audience,” said Chariton.

Finding a suitable venue for such an event has also been challenging. The shortage of indoor spaces in Central Wisconsin capable of hosting markets was evident until Chariton discovered The Annex at The Opera House in downtown Stevens Point. This historic venue, with its charm and potential, proved to be the perfect location.

The Annex, at The Opera House, is a historic building located in downtown Stevens Point and the former location of a Book World retail store. It's a captivating space, thoughtfully renovated to highlight architectural elements original to the building, including antique wide board trim, original maple floors, ornate pressed tin ceilings, and a 2-story atrium. Combined with all the modern amenities and comforts, the venue offers plenty of old world charm along with a flexible open floor concept that can accommodate all types of events.

As its name conveys, The Annex is also a part of a larger up-and-coming venture, The Stevens Point Opera House event complex, which will operate The Annex building along with The Opera House building (formerly known as the Fox Theater) as a single large event venue. The goal of The Opera House, LLC, founded by local entrepreneur, T. Senner, has been to reinvest in the historic downtown by renovating and saving an iconic historic building, while also fulfilling a need for more event space in the area.

“The legacy of downtown Stevens Point has always been one of community, and it's one of our goals to collaborate with local small businesses and artists in a variety of ways to make a positive contribution to the commercial industry and vibrant community life of our downtown,” describes Erin Batzler, Event Coordinator and Brand Manager for the Opera House LLC. "We've been very lucky to have so many community members like Bridget and others work with us to collaborate on events the community can get excited about, like Wisconsin Handmade Market."

Following a successful trial in June, Wisconsin Handmade Market is set to return in August for a two-day event featuring over a dozen Central Wisconsin female makers and artisans.

“I am thrilled about the lineup of talented local makers and artisans,” Chariton added. “Attendees will find an array of high-quality, unique items including mixed media art, jewelry, baked goods, textiles, home decor, pottery, soaps, candles, and pet products. Our community can take pride in the extraordinary artistry and craftsmanship on display.”

Wisconsin Handmade Market will take place on August 16 from 4-9 p.m. and August 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Annex at The Opera House in downtown Stevens Point.

For more information about the event, visit https://linktr.ee/cherrytreecreatives or on Facebook at Wisconsin Handmade.

Media Contact: [Bridget Chariton]

[Owner, Cherry Tree Creatives]

[cherrytreecreatives@gmail.com]

[715-496-0163]

About Wisconsin Handmade Market: Wisconsin Handmade Market is an initiative dedicated to connecting local artisans with their community. By providing a platform for makers to showcase their crafts, the market fosters personal connections and supports the local economy.

###