Three Days, Two Events, One City

The last three days we spent in Milwaukee at two fantastic events: Joy Engine's Nitelight Market on Historic Mitchell Street Friday and Saturday night, and re:Craft&relic/ Lit MKE's Make Art MKE at Mount Mary University today (Sunday).

Nitelight Market had so much entertainment for folks of all ages. An outstanding lightshow on the side of one of the buildings, a fashion show, live music, a cirque de Soleil-esque performance, and a giant Lite Brite! I wasn't sure what to expect for this event, but it exceeded my expectations. Although its only the second year or so of this event, it can only get better from here. There were may folks who said its exactly that this neighborhood needs is something that brings folks together -- which is exactly what this did. It wasn't my most lucrative event financially, but it was very fulfilling with the sense of community.

Make Art MKE was the first year since the Starving Artist event that usually took place the Mount Mary University. The Make Art MKE event allowed more than just artists -- they allowed makers of all types of art, which contributed to so much diversity in the customers. Folks were LINED UP outside to get inside the doors at 10am. Its such a good feeling to see that long line (normally I don't get to see it, even though I know its there) of folks so excited to see the vendors! This event had almost 150 vendors in one location, and was orchestrated beautifully. No delays, no funnel necks in arriving/ leaving, and great communication. Definitely similar to the Madison Makers Market event coordination, which is amazing!

If you didn't get to see us in the last three days, we are taking a breather on Monday to regroup, then will be at Ready, Set, Market on Tuesday as a special preview of the new Madison Public Market space!! Come check us out from 5pm to 8pm on Tuesday, along with our Halloween (see the new eye bath bomb below) and Fall Products!!