Market Days with Midnight Sun Elegance: Sharing Culture, Craft, and Connection

There’s something truly special about market days. The energy, the people, the stories — every market I attend is a reminder of why I started Midnight Sun Elegance in the first place.

I began my business about four years ago, creating luxurious handmade Indigenous jewelry inspired by my Dene heritage, the beauty of the North, and the strength of our traditions. About two to three years ago, I started taking part in local markets, and since then, they’ve become an important part of my journey as both an artist and entrepreneur.

Now, I do markets about two to three times a month, each one offering a new opportunity to share my work, connect with people, and bring a touch of Indigenous elegance to new communities.

The Art of the Market Booth

Over the years, I’ve learned that a market booth isn’t just a place to sell — it’s an experience you create for others. Your booth should reflect your brand, your story, and your artistry. Here are a few things I’ve learned that make a big difference:

1. Keep it clean and inviting.

A tidy, well-organized booth immediately draws people in. Less clutter allows your pieces to shine and makes it easier for customers to appreciate your craftsmanship.

2. Create a cohesive look.

Your display should reflect your brand identity. I like to use colors, textures, and materials that align with Midnight Sun Elegance — warm tones, natural elements, and luxurious touches that highlight the elegance of my Indigenous jewelry.

3. Tell your story.

People connect to meaning. I’ve found that sharing the inspiration behind my pieces — whether it’s a design passed down from my grandmother or materials sourced from the land — makes each sale more personal and memorable.

4. Be prepared and powered up.

There’s nothing worse than your Square reader dying mid-sale! I always make sure to charge my Square and have backup battery packs ready. Preparation makes for a smoother day and a better experience for customers.

5. Connect and engage.

Markets are about more than selling — they’re about relationships. I love meeting people, hearing their stories, and seeing their reactions when they find a piece that truly speaks to them. Those moments are what make market days so rewarding.

A Journey of Growth

From my first market to now, I’ve seen how much growth happens when you put yourself out there. Markets have helped me build confidence, test new designs, and reach customers who now follow and support my business online.

Each market is a small reflection of who I am as a Dene artist — rooted in tradition, creating with passion, and sharing beauty with the world. Whether it’s your first market or your fiftieth, remember: every setup, every smile, and every story shared adds to your journey.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a maker or artist thinking about starting markets, take the leap. Be intentional with your setup, bring your energy and your story, and don’t forget to charge your Square! You’ll learn, grow, and connect in ways that will surprise and inspire you.

For me, market days are more than sales — they’re about celebrating culture, creativity, and community. And that’s what Midnight Sun Elegance will always be about.