I’ve been to Market in the Meadow at least 16 times. That means I’ve shopped at more than half the holiday gift shows put on by the Forest Meadow Junior High PTA over the past 29 years. As Market in the Meadow readies to open once again this weekend, I asked Ellen Bryant, MIM Booth Chairman, why I should attend again. Haven’t I been there, done that?
Ellen and her team have personally selected the 160 vendors from hundreds of merchants who’ve applied to sell their wares. Because LH shoppers have buying power, and because Market in the Meadow draws shoppers from all over the metroplex, MIM has developed a great reputation in the vendor market world.
Ellen says about 50% of the merchants are favorites from previous years, returning upon request, and about 50% are newbies. She gave me a little scoop on a few of the new vendors she thinks I’ll really like, but she says there are more, many more, I’ll just have to see for myself.
Traveling Gypsy is like a traveling boutique, with vintage-inspired ladies apparel and repurposed, one-of-a-kind jewelry made from antique treasures mixed with modern elements.
For the Birds is a local artist who designs bird feeders, bird houses and bird baths.
Mother Shucker’s Tamales will have fresh handmade tamales, pastries and candies onsite, so that after a day of shopping you can be a hero at home. They offer vegan and chicken versions, in addition to the traditional beef and pork favorites, but Ellen says the Turtle pastries are expected to be the biggest hit. Yum.
Created New by April Wade has a variety of items, from bedding to baby goods, clothing to accessories. Crib bumpers, blankets, pillows, aprons, sleep masks…you name it.
Courtney’s Too is coming from their Sironia location in Waco with adorable handmade children’s wear.
Twinkle Tees is the creation of local artist, Andrea Henderson. Know the name? Yes, she’s an FMJH parent. Yes, she’s the wife of Moss Haven Elementary principal Philip Henderson. Yes, she’s got talent. She can custom design the tee of your choice, or flip through her creations until you find one you love.
Ellen, you’re so right. I gotta go.
Admission to Market in the Meadow is free. Entertainment all weekend includes Espree, CenterStage and other choirs, the Wildcat Wranglers, cheer squads from various LH schools, the Highlandettes and other groups. The market is open 9-5 Saturday and 11-5 Sunday. Parking is a little tricky, so bring your patience and wear your walking shoes. I’ll see you there.
Update: Parking info-There is lots of room for parking behind the school on the athletic fields, but Parking Chair Courtney Carvajal tells me lots of folks don’t seem to know it’s available or know how to get back there. Here’s the scoop: enter the grassy area (yes, it’s permitted, no, you won’t get into trouble) between the school and the tennis court (you won’t have to jump a curb there). You can also enter via the alley off Whitehurst. Courtney will have plenty of clear signage posted, and – the best part – parking is free.
