A NORTH EAST entrepreneur has come up with a way to support the region’s creative businesses during the current Covid-19 crisis.
Sunderland-born Rachael Sligo is an artist and illustrator who produces cards and gifts which she sells online, along with being a primary school teacher.
And she is now planning a series of online “night markets” where creative companies get the opportunity to sell their handcrafted items to buyers.
The next event is taking place this Friday (April 24) where 12 businesses get the opportunity to “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.”
This is the second night market event and Rachael’s plan is to hold them every month, featuring different creative companies each time.
“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,” she said.
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 DM Rachael at Rachael https://www.instagram.
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.”