Summer time is when Lake Country truly comes alive. As the lakes thaw out in the sun, there is an increasing number of car shows, cookouts, and live music. The first week in May sees the beginning of many weekly famers markets, as vegetables and other locally sourced goods become seasonably available. These aren’t the only kinds of markets that have become more widely available, though.
Recently, the ‘Makers Market’ craze has been sweeping through Wisconsin. Slightly to the east, the Milwaukee Maker’s Market has become something of a sensation. The monthly event is held at a variety of locations in downtown Milwaukee, such as the Ivy House (A space decorated with luscious greenery) and one of Discovery World’s brightly windowed event spaces. The market has won several awards for its variety of vendors and its high quality operation. The Milwaukee Maker’s Market even has its own signature candle, created by Big White Yeti Candle Co. It draws in thousands of visitors each year and gives local artists a space to display their creativity.
With Milwaukee’s success looming nearby, it was only a matter of time until these high quality maker’s markets began branching out into Lake Country. On Saturday, May 10, the Stonewood Village in Brookfield hosted its annual maker’s market. The event has become a semi-yearly favorite. The Stonewood village is a unique event space, with several antiquated but lively buildings dotting its gorgeous plot of land. Many of the shops on the property open their doors and invite guests in to see their businesses. Joney Cafe shows off its unique Chilean cuisine, while next door, A Savvy Bride offers a sneak peak of its splendid interior. It’s a chance for the otherwise secluded business area to shine.
The Stonewood Maker’s Market also invites some of Wisconsin’s best vendors in for the event. There’s a little bit of something for everyone. Talented artists sell prints of their paintings, hand crafted pottery, and jewelry. Several tables sell baked goods, elderberry syrup, and honey. A few tables sold soaps, body butters, and lip balms made with natural ingredients. It was a delightful chance for these creatives to come together on a sunny Saturday before Mother’s Day.
Several food trucks also showed up for the event. Tots on the Street, a Milwaukee based truck selling gourmet tater tots made an appearance. Additionally, there was barbecue, coffee, and enchiladas available from the selection of other food trucks. The market was a true celebration of community, as people found fellowship in shopping and snacking together. It had a different feeling than a farmer’s market, more leisurely and artistically inspired than one might typically expect. Although the next market at Stonewood Village won’t be held until autumn, it’s a good indicator of the craftiness that Lake Country has to offer.
