Zahra, Grade 3 – Sewing Artist

Zahra spent weeks sewing zipper pouches, book sleeves, wristlets, and lip balm holders from fabric she selected based on her interests and on some Meadowridge market research she conducted.

“My mom grew up sewing, so I wanted to try it too,” she shared. “Picking the fabrics was my favourite part. I chose a book pattern because I read a lot. I picked Harry Potter because so many people dressed up like him for Halloween last year. And I chose sushi fabric because lots of people love sushi. Those sold out fast!”

Her advice for first-time vendors: “Stick to something simple that you already know, so there’s no pressure.”

Fun fact: Zahra’s mom made math worksheets to help her calculate change easily for customers at the market.

Amelia, Grade 3 – Handmade Paper Crafter

Returning for her second year as a Winter Market vendor, Amelia made handmade paper by blending, pressing, and drying recycled paper scraps.

“I wanted to try something new last year, so I joined the market to make soap, and it went well. For this year, I thought, why not make something I already know how to do? I’ve made paper at home with my mum before. It can get messy, but it’s fun!”

Her biggest lessons and advice for others: "Organize your display. Make it eye-catching. Greet everyone—say hello and start explaining what you’re selling so they don’t walk past you.”

She added that selling to people she knew was one of her proudest moments: “I loved it when people I knew bought from me. It felt like they were supporting all the students, not just me.”
 

Kian, Grade 4 – Abstract Artist

Kian created textured abstract artwork with gold foil, felt, and layered textures using supplies from his family’s art room. "My mom was an artist in university, so I used the materials we already had and glued felt, gold, and paper together," he said. “I really wanted my art to stand out, and every piece has a meaning—some pieces are sushi and chopsticks, some are the ocean, some are trees." He proudly shared that he sold out all his pieces—one of which is now showcased in Mayor Dan Ruimy’s office!

Kian’s advice for future vendors: "Don’t just choose to make something because you think it’ll make money. Do something you like. Would you rather be rich and not happy, or happy first? Make it unique.” He followed with, “Also, good manners equal good sales."

Crowley Grade 3 – 3D Printing

Crowley teamed up with a Grade 3 classmate, Jamie, to create an item with a wide customer base and that would promote school spirit: 3D-printed keychains representing Meadowridge’s four Houses (Alouette, Fraser, Kanaka, and Whonnock).

"I always wanted to try a 3D printer, and Jamie’s dad had one. It’s satisfying to watch it make something.” When asked why he decided on House keychains, he shared, “Most people can relate to these keychains, and maybe next year we can make House pins for people to have on their school blazers too.”

“Don’t copy others—come up with your own ideas,” he shared when asked what advice he would give others. “You should probably sell food, because that sells out quickly, and vendors would get hungry, and they already have cash on hand!”