St Luke's Church, known locally as the Bombed Out Church, hosted its monthly Makers Market, drawing hundreds of visitors to the historic city centre landmark. The event, held on the third Sunday of each month, provides a platform for over 50 independent local businesses to showcase their products.
Attendees explored a wide variety of stalls offering everything from handmade crafts and unique art to artisanal food and drinks. The market creates a vibrant atmosphere within the roofless walls of the church, combining local commerce with cultural heritage.
Key Takeaways
- The Makers Market takes place at St Luke's Bombed Out Church on the third Sunday of every month.
- The event features over 50 local independent vendors selling art, crafts, food, and drinks.
- Live music and a diverse range of unique products create a popular attraction for Liverpool residents and tourists.
- The market supports the local economy by providing a direct sales platform for small businesses and artisans.
A Hub for Liverpool's Independent Creators
The Makers Market has become a staple in Liverpool's monthly event calendar, transforming the grounds of the Bombed Out Church into a bustling marketplace. This regular event serves as a crucial outlet for the city's creative community, allowing artisans and small business owners to connect directly with customers.
With more than 50 stalls participating each month, the variety is extensive. Visitors can find items that are not typically available in high-street shops, making it a prime destination for those seeking unique gifts, home decor, or gourmet food items. The open-air setting within the historic church walls adds to the unique shopping experience.
The event is more than just a market; it's a community gathering. Live music often fills the space, with performers like singer Jun Tu providing a relaxed soundtrack for shoppers. This combination of commerce and culture has cemented the market's reputation as a must-visit event in the city centre.
The Significance of St Luke's Church
St Luke's Church, or the Bombed Out Church, stands as a memorial to the victims of the Liverpool Blitz during World War II. It was heavily damaged in the May Blitz of 1941 but its outer walls remained standing. Today, it operates as a managed ruin, hosting a wide array of cultural events, from markets and theatre performances to weddings and film screenings, making it a cherished and versatile community space.
Spotlight on Local Vendors
The market's success is built on the quality and diversity of its vendors. Each stall tells a story of local entrepreneurship and creativity, offering products made with care and passion right here in Liverpool.
Artisanal Food and Drink
Food lovers found plenty to enjoy at the market. One popular stall was Med Olives, where Irmak Madran offered a curated selection of olives sourced from across the Mediterranean. This stall provides a taste of authentic, high-quality produce.
For those with a sweet tooth, Jane's Bakes was a popular stop. Run by Jane Lloyd and Jane Stewart, the stall featured an array of freshly baked goods. Their school cake cookies, a nostalgic treat, were a particular highlight for many visitors, showcasing classic baking with a creative twist.
Handmade Crafts and Unique Designs
The market is a treasure trove for unique, handmade items. Gareth Roach of Little Liver Ghosts displayed his charming, handmade ghost models. Each small ghost is crafted from clay and is entirely unique, serving as a quirky and popular Liverpool-made souvenir.
According to market organizers, supporting local makers helps keep over 60% of money spent circulating within the local economy, compared to just 40% for larger chains.
Fashion and accessories were also well-represented. Ellie Watson from Ethereaell The Label showcased her collection of handmade bags and accessories. Her presence highlights the market's role in supporting emerging local designers and offering shoppers access to one-of-a-kind fashion pieces.
Other creative businesses included:
- Clare Wrench Art: Featuring original artworks by local artist Clare Wrench.
- Caroline Benzies Photography: Selling prints from photographer Caroline Benzies, capturing unique perspectives of the city and beyond.
- Happyboy Live Edge Products: Ashley Spedding's stall, which offered beautiful handmade woodwork and home goods.
The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses
Events like the Makers Market play a vital role in the health of Liverpool's local economy. They provide a low-cost, high-visibility platform for small businesses that may not have a physical shopfront, allowing them to build a customer base and test new products.
"Markets like this are the lifeblood for small creators. It's where we get to meet our customers face-to-face and share the stories behind our work." - A sentiment shared by many local vendors.
By choosing to shop at the Makers Market, consumers directly contribute to the livelihoods of local artists, designers, and food producers. This direct support fosters a more diverse and resilient local retail landscape, encouraging creativity and entrepreneurship throughout the city region.
The consistent turnout, with hundreds of people attending each month, demonstrates a strong public appetite for authentic, locally-produced goods. As shoppers become more conscious of where their money goes, the appeal of supporting independent businesses continues to grow, ensuring a bright future for events like the Bombed Out Church Makers Market.