The Neighbourhood Markets finds a new home

Posted on 9 November, 2022

After sprouting roots in Belconnen, local collective the Neighbours Markets made their way to Woden’s Westfield, where over 100 sellers sold their wares. Six months later, they’ve found a permanent home.

Market owner Annelie Duffel and seller-turned-manager Caroline Doherty are passionate about shining the spotlight on local talent, and on Wednesday 26 October, they opened the doors to their new space in Majura Park, taking with them every artist and business that calls the Neighbourhood Markets ‘home’.

 

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Caroline has always been drawn towards the supportive and inclusive nature of the markets, finding her purpose in passing on the wisdom that comes from running her own business for over 12 years.

“I loved that it wasn’t just about putting stallholders in there and making money—it was about mentoring them and helping people believe in themselves. It’s not just about market stalls, it’s about the artists themselves,” says Caroline.

Through this gentle guidance that small first-time artists and business owners can begin navigating the marketing of their products as well as finding their own identity.

“I always tell them to follow their hearts and to do what they know and not try to be anyone else. I will help them display things because a lot of people feel more is more, but most of the time, less is more.

“I also help them with their merchandising and how they can set up an Instagram account—because, for a lot of them—that side of things is really new,” reflects Caroline.”

In this environment, local businesses bloom, thanks to Caroline’s pep talks, confidence boosters and her knowledgeable eye.

“One of our artists had never sold a piece ever, and now she has her artwork in the Van Gogh gallery—she has taken off. And she had so little confidence that she cried when she sold her first painting in the store.

“It’s just been so great to see that type of thing, and we honestly see it all the time. When people start tiny, then their businesses take off,” reflects Caroline.

 

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As you walk through the Neighbourhood Markets, buyers will quickly get a tantalising glimpse into the diversity of talent that weaves resolutely throughout the ACT. From fine art, jewellery, treats for your pooch and handcrafted, homemade souvenirs, with each piece pushing its own unique vision and quickly reeling buyers inside.

“We have candles, clothing, we even have a swimsuit designer coming on board, and she hand sews those swimsuits in Canberra. There is so much local talent hidden out there, you’ve just got to dig around and find it,” says Caroline.

As the Neighbourhood Markets prepares to leave its local footprints throughout Majura Park, inclusivity and uplifting smaller business remains at its core. Annelie and Caroline are beating their own path—one that connects our talented local creatives directly to that special buyer.

“Especially over the past few years, we’ve had a lot of markets closed down or not being operated, and a lot of small businesses have really struggled,” says Caroline.

“I’ve seen the pain that a lot of businesses have been through—and it’s really important that Canberra gets behind these small businesses and shows them that they’re really wanted. Especially in the lead up to Christmas, where you get yourself something that is locally made and just one of a kind.”