Uncover the wonders of the General Collective Lifestyle & Design Market with your family
- By: Auckland for Kids
- Published:
On Sunday, May 28, General Collective is set to launch the highly anticipated 2023 market season with their flagship Lifestyle & Design Market at the Auckland Showgrounds. With an impressive line-up of nearly 200 top New Zealand brands, makers, and creators, the General Collective Lifestyle & Design Market is a haven for families seeking unique and locally designed products. From stunning homewares to trendy fashion and accessories, this event offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover exceptional craftsmanship and design. The best part? You’ll have the chance to meet the talented creatives behind these brands, allowing for a personal connection and a deeper appreciation of their artistry.
As the countdown begins, General Collective’s Founder, Rose Barbarich, expressed her excitement about the upcoming event. “The quality of creatives and designers coming through is really breathtaking. What we’re seeing is a really exciting wave of new talent emerging, and we are thrilled to be able to provide a platform to introduce these brands to an eager audience who love supporting local.”
The market has curated a range of special activities tailored specifically for families with young children. Kids will be delighted by the face painting station, where they can transform into their favourite characters or creatures. The event also features a special colouring station presented by Colour Our Story, providing young artists with an opportunity to unleash their creativity. And for the LEGO enthusiasts in the family, there will be LEGO stations where they can construct and imagine to their heart’s content.
Among the fresh faces joining the General Collective family for the first time are several notable brands that are bound to captivate visitors. The Solo Blacksmith, an Auckland-based blacksmith, crafter, and tutor, will showcase sustainable and beautifully crafted homewares and tools made from both new and recycled materials. Solomon Marshall, the mastermind behind The Solo Blacksmith, aims to create designer items that are not only visually appealing but also practical and durable.
Another standout newcomer is Taupiri artist Samantha Stokes, whose Samantha Stokes Collection features exquisitely embroidered kids’ accessories, art, and kimonos. Stokes is renowned for her delicate use of embroidered flowers, which brings a touch of whimsical charm to her creations, particularly her enchanting fairy wings.
For furry friends, Mr Chorkie brings a touch of style to the market with their range of dog accessories. From corduroy and teddy bear fleece coats to bandanas and bowties, Mr Chorkie ensures that every canine companion looks their best while staying warm during chilly days.
Additionally, Bethan Art by artist Bethan Marshall will present a vibrant display of original paintings, prints, greeting cards, and homewares. Offering a perfect fusion of art and practicality, Marshall’s products serve as wonderful gifts or personal indulgences that infuse New Zealand artistry into any home.
In addition to these new brands, General Collective will welcome back beloved favourites, including SOPHIE (New Zealand-designed fashion and accessories), Helen Miller (locally made handcrafted designer handbags), Claybird Ceramics (locally made ceramics and homewares), Love Winter (handmade and New Zealand-designed jewelery), and Cook & Nelson (curators of the finest artisan food from around the world, as well as their new local drink range, Good Sh*t)T.
To ensure visitors are well-fueled throughout the day, General Collective has curated a delectable array of culinary offerings. Joining the crew are Roaming Flamingo, offering tasty tacos crafted by MasterChef grand finalist Elliot McClymont, Nuestra Cocina with their vibrant Latin American cuisine brimming with good vibes, Butter Baby, a pop-up bakery serving up jazzed-up, old-school favourites, and Cheese on Toast, tantalizing taste buds with their house-made sourdough toasties filled with unbelievably delicious ingredients.
With an abundance of attractions, from coffee stops to food trucks and take-home goodies, the General Collective Lifestyle & Design Market promises an unforgettable experience for attendees. So gather your family and friends, make a day of it, and prepare to be dazzled by the exceptional talent and offerings at this extraordinary event.
The General Collective Lifestyle & Design Market will take place on Sunday, May 28, 2023, from 9am to 3pm at the Auckland Showgrounds, located at 217 Greenlane Road West, Epsom, Auckland. Tickets are priced at $5, with FREE admission for children under 12 making it a budget-friendly outing for families. You can find out more at: generalcollective.co.nz
