Innovative Sunderland night market launches to support creative businesses during lockdown

Sunderland-born Rachael Sligo, who is an artist and illustrator, has come up with a way to support the region’s creative businesses during the current Covid-19 crisis.

Rachael, who produces cards and gifts which she sells online, is planning a series of online “night markets” where creative companies get the opportunity to sell their handcrafted items to buyers.

The next event is this Friday where 12 businesses can “showcase their brands, sell their products and get their work seen. From 7.30pm onwards each seller gets their own slot, where they can post up to ten items with all the details of costs, availability etc,” said Rachael.

“Then they are sold on a first come, first served basis.”

Rachael, who is also a primary school teacher, plans to hold the markets every month, featuring different creative companies each time. This Friday’s event is the second in the series.

She added: “It’s just a great way of introducing some of the incredible creative businesses we have here to a wide audience and also help them get some income at this difficult time.”

Products available this Friday include hand crafted lampshades, kitchen storage jars, recycled furniture, bespoke bags and clothing.

Rachael runs little flowers by Sligo where she sells her own creations, while her second site - little flowers by night – hosts the night market on Instagram.

Anyone interested in selling at the market should direct message Rachael at Rachaelhttps://www.instagram.com/littleflowersbynight/

Sharon Appleby, Head of Business Operations at Sunderland BID, applauded Rachael’s creativity and encouraged local companies to get involved.

“It’s fantastic to see someone diversifying in this way and also giving a platform for other creative companies to showcase what they do,” she said.

“I hope lots of people will take up the opportunity and will also buy from the night market to support businesses in the region.”

For the latest coronavirus updates, inspiring stories during the pandemic and latest case numbers, visit the Sunderland Echo website.

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