The Blooming Sylvan Belle Country Market
By Julia Holmes
Let’s face it. It’s THAT time of year again. The deadline bells are ringing and ‘crunch’ time is in full force. Our advice? Take a deep breath and treat yourself to a well-deserved break at the flourishing Sylvan Belle Country Market. Hosted from Bloomingdales, 145 Main Road Walmer, patrons can slot in a visit between 09:00-15:00 each market day.
The perfect opportunity to sit back and smell the roses, the Sylvan Belle Country Market is intended to showcase local, artisan merchandise. Co-organiser Lauren Mather says: “It’s a new emerging market and it is all about handmade and unique products.
So rather than shopping at your big food chains we believe in supporting local people with fresh wholesome food products and uniquely crafted gifts and accessories”. A doting mom with a passion for food and family, Lauren encourages that the market has “something for everyone”. Browsing amidst the breathtaking Bloomingdales scenery, an ambiance of live music and chatter is complemented by a wide-selection of fresh, quality food, beverage (alcoholic/non-alcoholic), and entertainment facilities.
The pedal cars taken for a spin at the market hosted on 19 September was a definite winner, with family fun uniquely incorporated into each edition of the calendar event. The market is host to a bouquet of Port Elizabeth foodie favourites, including that of Foongs, Makoy, Wafelbak, Groundfloor Coffee on the Go, Back to Earth, Culture Kitchen and much, much more.
With a positive response from the PE public thus far, Lauren believes that the market trend is vital in illustrating Port Elizabeth as not merely a destination, but a city that does “great things”. According to Lauren, this is achieved in proving that Port Elizabeth is a competitive party in the building of events and communities that shine light on locally produced products and services.
A “rewarding and challenging journey”, Lauren’s credits her unflagging involvement with the Sylvan Belle Country Market as one that has introduced her to fascinating people, and has granted her with insight into local small business operations.
Sylvan Belle’s interest in the growing Nelson Mandela Bay landscape stems further than that of their monthly market, but to that of exciting events such as food and wine pairings, and the much anticipated Christmas Market (4,5,6 December 2015). Testament in the current flooding of Christmas decor in retail outlets, Santa is definitely en route! To keep informed on the “all things Christmas” shopping experience, follow “Sylvan Belle Christmas Market” on their respective Facebook event page. In addition, Lauren and her fellow associates have also developed their very own food brand! Titled “Sylvan Belle Country Kitchen”, their tasty products are now available for purchase at the Waterfront SUPERSPAR in Humewood, Port Elizabeth.
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