Swellendam’s picturesque town and esteemed restaurant, Grace and Merci, hosted the Under the Oaks Market on Women’s Day.
This special market provids a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their handmade products, fostering community engagement and economic growth.
The market, which takes place every Saturday, has become a vital lifeline for individuals and small businesses in the region. It offess a valuable opportunity to generate income, often serving as a primary source for local households. It has also become a heartfelt occasion for residents of Swellendam, as well as those from neighbouring towns such as Barrydale and Suurbraak.
“The market is specifically designed for the community, allowing local producers to market and cost-effectively sell their products, given the prohibitive costs of renting commercial spaces in town,” said Bev Missing at Grace + Merci, the market’s organiser.
The Women’s Day market highlighted the power of community-driven support and the role it played in promoting local entrepreneurship. It was celebrated not only for the goods on offer but also for the memorable interactions and friendships formed. The market featured a wide array of country crafts, fresh produce, artwork, gifts, curios, herbs, plants, and delicious food.
One of many heartwarming stories was that of Billy, a talented artisan who handcrafted beautiful mats.
His mother shared, “Not only is this our place of income, but even on days that generate less money, we often just ccome for our market family.”
Onder The Oaks Market provides a platform for stories like Billy’s to be heard, offering a personal connection to each handcrafted product.
While the market is a regular Saturday event, a special festival twill take place on Saturday, September 13 at 8 Voortrek Street, Swellendam, located behind the Grace + Merci Restaurant.
