Photo essay: UMW’s first ever night market attracts student vendors and art lovers from all over campus

by ANNA BLAKE

Staff Photographer

On Friday, March 10, UMW’s first Night Market was held in Chandler Ballroom from 7–9:30 p.m. This event was an opportunity for student vendors to sell their crafts, clothes and services like tarot card readings. That night, the ballroom was filled with half the room featuring dozens of student vendors and the other half with a variety of artistic activities. There was a lengthy line to swipe into the event, and, once inside, the market was packed. Although this was the first time this event has been held, the turnout was great and attracted a consistent crowd throughout the night. 

As I walked into the ballroom, I was surprised to see that this event had more than just shopping. There were four large tables that offered board games, bracelet making and coloring sheets.

From left to right: Sidni Tolliver, Carly Healy, Emma Richards and Frankie Carlucci make bracelets. 

Another surprise of the event was that there was a catering table that had spinach dip, mini grilled cheeses with tomato soup, hot chocolate and tea. Even though the event was catered towards buying from student vendors, there were plenty of free activities in addition to budget-friendly items that students could purchase.

Morgan Lewellen was one of the only vendors that provided a service rather than selling crafts, jewelry or clothes. They read tarot and rune stones. 

Many people sold handmade jewelry and crochet plushies. Others sold thrifted clothes, and one person had a sweatpants line with their own designs. I enjoyed browsing the Disney-themed table that had Mickey ears, tumblers, stickers and headbands with various Disney patterns. 

Anastasia Zanyuk modeled the earrings that she was selling to support Ukraine. All of her proceeds from the night were donated to U.S. Ukrainian Activists.