SHOP SMALL, Y'ALL

Must-hit shopping extravaganza heads to Houston with art, fashion, food, and home design from 100 indie creators

Attention shoppers and lovers of indie wares: Markets for Makers, a sought-after event celebrating the craftsmanship of independent artists and small businesses, lands in Houston this weekend with its carefully curated home décor, fashion, art, design, and food selections.

Taking place at Silver Street Studios from Saturday, May 20th through Sunday, May 21st, this can't-miss market aims to foster lasting connections between talented creators and their customers nationwide.

With nearly 100 diverse makers participating, Markets for Makers offers an exclusive shopping experience, granting attendees access to unique products not readily available in retail stores or other markets.

Showcasing a blend of Houston-based artisans like 6pm Candle Co., Lisa Marie Emmitte, Livelihood, and Lolly Sweets, alongside makers from across the country such as Bundled Baby, Cream & Concrete, and Dark Cycle Clothing, the market presents an exceptional variety of artistic talent.

A full list of the weekend's makers can be found here.

Beyond the opportunity to shop in an inspiring environment that champions connections between independent artists, makers, and customers, shoppers will be treated to various on-site activations. Captivating photo walls, delightful beverages, and an array of delectable bites from food trucks like CitizensTruck and Foreign Policy Food Truck will also be on hand throughout the weekend event.

General admission tickets grant shoppers access to the market during a designated time slot, accompanied by a complimentary tote bag and an invitation to participate in a free spring-themed DIY craft at the market.

For those seeking a truly exclusive experience, VIP ticket holders enjoy market access throughout the entire weekend. They also benefit from a dedicated VIP line for swift entry, receive a special edition cotton market tote, and can shop during an exclusive preview hour on Saturday from 10 am to 11 am.

"We're thrilled to have the opportunity to share the work of our talented and diverse collection of makers, representing a mix of local and national artists," Natalie Christensen, the founder of Markets for Makers, tells CultureMap. "Our goal is to create a shopping experience that showcases one-of-a-kind products and builds a community that supports, inspires, and encourages makers and small businesses."

Markets for Makers has experienced remarkable growth and success since its inception due to exclusive collaborations, eye-catching social media, and marketing. Within just a few short years, the event has expanded its presence across the United States and is currently in Chicago, Jacksonville, and Miami.

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Markets for Makers; Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and 21; 11 am–4 pm; Silver Street Studios, 2000 Edwards St. Tickets run $8 (GA) to $15 (VIP). A full lineup and more information can be found here.

Photo by Markets for Makers/Instagram

Within just a few short years, Markets for Makers has expanded its presence across the United States and is currently in Chicago, Jacksonville, and Miami.

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boots with a story

Houston bootmaker offers $5,000 cowboy boot and gator hunt adventure

Photo courtesy of Republic Boot Company

Houston bootmaker, Republic Boot Company, turns gator hunts into a custom pair of boots.

In Houston, where custom boots are a source of great pride and style, one local brand is taking the bespoke boot experience to a new level. Republic Boot Company, known for its elevated, hand-crafted creations, just launched a Gator Hunt Experiencewhere customers can source an alligator hide, which will be transformed into a pair of cowboy boots.

Part adventure and part traditional craftsmanship, the experience begins with a hunt in the marshlands near Anahuac, about an hour from Houston, and ends with a custom-made pair of alligator-skin cowboy boots tailored to the client's vision by a Republic Boot Company boot specialist.

"At Republic Boot Company, we pride ourselves on crafting boots that are not just footwear, but a legacy," said Chris Conrad, owner of Republic Boot Company. "This new Gator Hunt Experience takes that commitment to personalization to an unprecedented level, offering our customers a unique and memorable journey taking them from the bayou to the heart of the Bayou City."

The gator hunt is $5,000 per person and includes an 8.5-foot alligator (larger alligators incur extra costs). Individuals of all experience levels can participate, and all necessary permits and equipment are provided to ensure a safe adventure. After the hunt, the hide will be tanned during an eight-month process to ensure a one-of-a-kind pair of boots. Just in case the kicks aren't enough of a conversation starter, participants will also receive a professional mount of the alligator head.

Alligator hunting season runs from September 11 to September 30, so the boots won't be ready for the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Once they are complete, however, they will be wearable pieces of art with a memorable story behind them. Those interested in extending their only-in-Texas half-day hunt into an overnight experience can book overnight accommodations through Republic Boot Company.

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