Local students are invited to turn creativity into commerce at the upcoming Kids Craft Fair on May 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The market gives students in grades 4–12 a hands-on opportunity to learn entrepreneurship, salesmanship and small-business skills while showcasing and selling their handmade goods to the community.
Participating students gain more than a table and a sale. They practice product development, pricing, customer service, marketing and financial literacy in a low-risk, supportive environment. Markets like this build confidence, encourage problem-solving and create pathways for future careers in design, business and the creative economy.
Event highlights
- Who: Students in grades 4–12
- What: Kids Craft Fair — youth-run booths selling handmade goods
- When: May 30, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Where: Marshall Walker Real Estate, 582 Rutledge Ave., Charleston, SC 29403
- Apply by: March 15
- Questions and applications: kidsmakermarchs@gmail.com
Why children’s maker markets matter
Children’s maker markets are experiential classrooms where young vendors learn to:
- Develop a product from idea to finished item.
- Set prices that reflect cost, time and value.
- Communicate with customers and practice persuasive, polite salesmanship.
- Manage money by tracking sales and making change.
- Market themselves through signage, social media and word of mouth.
Local parenting magazines and community outlets play a vital role in amplifying these opportunities. Coverage helps families discover safe, educational activities that nurture independence and creativity while strengthening neighborhood commerce.
Building a sustainable student-run movement
This Kids Craft Fair is intended to be the first of many. Organizers hope to evolve the market into a student-run organization that supports ongoing entrepreneurship education and leadership development. As the program grows, students will take on more responsibility for planning, promotion and operations, gaining real governance and organizational experience.
The market also integrates service learning into entrepreneurship. A portion of event proceeds will be donated to a local nonprofit chosen by the student vendors through a democratic vote, giving participants experience in civic decision-making and community stewardship.
“Markets like this let kids test ideas, solve real problems and see the direct results of their effort,” said Jen Savage, event organizer, former adolescent teacher and parent. “We hope this is the first of many markets that become fully student run, where young entrepreneurs lead the work and choose a community cause to support.”
Call to action
Students in grades 4–12 who want to sell their creative work at the Kids Craft Fair should apply by March 15. For application details or inquiries, email kidsmakermarchs@gmail.com. Space is limited, and young makers are encouraged to apply early.