Sundays Are A Lot Better
As Charlotte grows, it’s hard to not get consumed with the “big life”. Luxury apartments and condos are being built every month, companies relocate or open corporate offices in town with high paying jobs, and exotic cars are starting to be seen on the regular. In my opinion, Charlotte is going through an identity crises (especially for people from here) but there is one thing in common: We love local. I’m comfortably assuming that we have over a million residents in the Queen City now, full of talented creators that are looking to get their work out. Luckily, there is Front Porch Sundays, a curated, multi-vendor outdoor pop-up market that happens the first Sunday of each month from April to November.
For the last couple of years I’ve had the pleasure to work with the amazing Jordan Dollard, the Boss Lady who has worked her tail off to make this event what it is now. As a business owner, and someone who frequents pop-up events, I have to say that there’s not many people who cares as much as she does about creating the perfect retail environment for vendors, guests, and most importantly, for Charlotte. Under her company Esther and Elsa, she’s lead her team to live up to the tagline of “Transforming CLT’s Retail Scene” with popular monthly events like Uptown Flea, Nebel’s Alley Night Market, and Front Porch Sundays. The feel, touch, and smell of each market is unique, with Front Porch being my favorite. And here’s why.
Starting right at 11 AM, you walk into a sea of colorful tents outside Sycamore Brewery full of talented creators and local business owners. As hypnotizing smells billow from the various food trucks on site, welcoming smiles from vendors take away your introvertedness (yep, I just made that a word) while you stroll down the walkways shopping for the latest jewelry, skin care products, artwork, and CHARLIT Tees from local artisans. Now after you’ve spend for first $100 on yourself, it’s time to take a break and get your first beer or kombucha from your favorite vendors while you relax to the live tunes from a dope local band. This is the life… But it ain’t over. Before you know it, it’s noon and it’s packed.
The music gets louder, the smiles get friendlier, and before you know it, you’ve just made new friends with dope individuals that help keep Charlotte creative. Then there’s another $100 spent on more items that make you feel apart of the city. Apart of the culture that keeps us local, all thanks to the team at Esther and Elsa.
If you haven’t been to a Front Porch Sundays event yet, your last chance will be this Sunday, December 8th at Sycamore Brewery for their first Holiday Edition. Get out with your friends and family, shop local for your loved ones, and have a great time. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.