What began as a hobby – making accessories – has turned into a small business for Della Williamson

Small Business Saturday previews at EC Public Library's Santa's Workshop

Contributed By:The 411 News

Della Williamson believes mom and pop businesses are on a comeback. Williamson was among the vendors answering the call to sell their products during "Santa's Workshop" at the Columbus Drive Branch of the East Chicago Public Library. The Friends of the Library opened their doors to vendors to help spread the word about Small Business Saturday, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Small Business Saturday has picked up momentum since its start in 2010 -- the creation of American Express. The nation was recovering from the recession and the company encouraged people to "shop small" and do more of their holiday shopping with local businesses.

None of the vendors represented mom and pop stores. They are a new breed of local businesses without store fronts, yet fit the bill to shop small.

Reviving local businesses is also a way to rebuild communities, Williamson said, and promotions like Small Business Saturday can help.

Opportunities to enter the marketplace give us a seat at the table, Williamson said. What began as a hobby – making accessories – has turned into a business. "My friends liked what I made and things that I wore. That encouraged me." Williamson wore earrings with the word "Boss" that hung below her shoulders. Along with accessories, she customizes glassware and mirrors.

Keeping local businesses alive is also about empowering communities said Bernice Julkes, another of the vendors. "When communities support their local businesses, they both thrive by helping money and goods circulate within the community." Julkes showed her own custom clothing designs for children and adults, and accessories for the home.

Soraida Mojica became a Paparazzi consultant 6 months ago. The jewelry line has become a popular direct sell item with its catchy price tag of 'Everything's $5.' Mojica has had success selling to co-workers, friends, and relatives. She wants to expand her team and in the future open a small boutique.

Clovis Perkins knits and crochets. Perkins wore earrings and scarf she had made. Perkins is a Friend of the Library and hosts a weekly gathering for community members who like to knit and crochet.

Yvette Cantrell, a Mary Kay consultant said the marketplace has given her a sense of freedom. "I can spend more time with my family and I can travel," she said.

Cantrell shared a table with Bridgette Spann-Edwards, who heads Teens In Action, a nonprofit in East Chicago. T.I.A. serves at-risk children, teens and their families through family counseling, substance abuse treatment and drug screening.

Anastasia Gonzalez got her start in skincare products when her sister developed an allergic reaction to a cosmetic. She is working on her second degree in biochemistry, so the learning curve wasn't steep. "I wanted to know what people are allergic to and why. My body products are organic with fewer fragrances and more essential oils." Gonzalez started selling a year ago on her website and on Etsy. This was her tenth vendor fair.

At one end of the room, vendor Tara Landor found out that one of her customers for the past two years was the vendor at the next table. "I looked at her table and said I know those gift baskets," said Lydia McNichols.

Landor targets her gift baskets for parties and events for teens and under. "My best sales are during Easter. I'm getting a head start with Frozen 2 theme baskets." Landor's reason for getting into the marketplace is her 6 year-old son, Caiden. He has had 4 open heart surgeries and is preparing for the next of many, Landor said.

McNichols and her partner Monica Groszewski sell Scentsy Wickless Candles and Warmers, fragrances for the home. They've been in business over 15 years and the holidays are their busiest. They use vendor fairs to attract new customers and email marketing for quick access to their customers.

Blankets, hat, and scarves filled Amber Julkes' table. "I'm retired and love to sew. My biggest sellers are blankets and items I make for breast cancer."

"I sell designer handbags and accessories at affordable prices," said Valerie Myricks. She once owned a brick and mortar store but now operates a mobile boutique. When shopping for herself, Myricks never goes to the malls. "I always shop with vendors because I can always get something unique."

"We promoted this for months, encouraging the community to come out," said Madeleine Spann, Friends of the Library member. "This is just in time for the year's busiest shopping season and these vendors were eager to put their products on display."


Bernice Julkes showed custom clothing designs for children and accessories for the home


Mary Kay Cosmetics consultant Yvette Cantrell ( seated left) and Bridgette Spann-Edwards with a customer


Clovis Perkins knits and crochets. Perkins wore earrings and scarf she made.

Story Posted:12/05/2019