Blog

Weekly Market Highlight

Last week was fantastic and laid back! Our Saturday farmers market ran from 8 am to 1 pm, and we had an engaging cooking class from 11 am to 12 pm. Wasn't able to make it? No worries,  come out this weekend and you can be apart of these enjoyable activities!
The weekend fun doesn't stop there - get ready for Multicultural Sundays at the Market, from 11 am to 6 pm on the square. Explore a wide array of delicious foods and unique artisanal finds.
Looking ahead to next week, don't miss the Pizza & Wine Festival from 4 pm to 11 pm. It's a must-attend experience where you can sample diverse pizzas and savour some delightful wines. See you there for a day full of good food and even more fun!
See you next week with more fun to enjoy!

VENDOR HIGHLIGHT

Thank you for coming back; this is our ninth installment of Vendor Highlights, where we dive in and explore a different vendor each week, allowing you to learn more about them and discover their story and some hidden gems. Today, we would like you to have a glimpse at the story behind the owners from Of The Earth, George & Lane.


During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, George and Lane embarked on a remarkable journey. Both were rooted in full-time jobs that seemed worlds apart from their current path. However, amidst the chaos, they keenly observed a common thread – people were grappling with isolation, feelings of gloom, and a disconnect from one another. This realization ignited their passion to venture into the realm of self-care, with a mission to craft a brand centred on rekindling human connections and fostering a sense of community through love.


Their vision was clear: to encourage individuals to prioritize self-care and self-love. Recognizing a void in society that yearned to be filled, they set out to create a range of products designed to infuse vitality and serenity back into people’s lives. Their journey began with bath bombs, a delightful start to their mission. They aspired to establish a haven where anyone could access everything necessary for self-care – a place where all felt seen, heard, and catered to with precision.


As their bath bombs garnered acclaim and appreciation, George and Lane expanded their offerings to include soaps and various skincare products. Lane’s insightful understanding of ingredient combinations, honed through prior experiences, ensured that their products nourished the body and forged a profound connection between physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Their dedication to putting you first resonates throughout everything they craft.


Their path led them to become vendors at different markets and festivals. During one such venture, they participated in the Holly Jolly Market in 2021, where their success fueled a desire to grow. Upon spotting an available space on the Market’s upper level, they leaped at the opportunity. This space served as a crucial stepping stone before they found their current cherished spot on the main floor of the Market in the summer of 2022, nestled close to the Market’s core.


For George and Lane, the Market symbolizes a vibrant community. While each vendor offers unique products, they share a common bond – genuine human connection and a beautiful sense of community. Supporting small businesses in the Market means more than just acquiring exceptional products; it’s about connecting with down-to-earth people.


Their motto, ‘when you love yourself, you can then help others,’ isn’t just words; it’s a guiding principle. George and Lane go above and beyond to ensure you’re not ‘just’ a customer but a person whose needs matter. They listen attentively, sincerely care, and strive to create what’s best for you. Speaking from personal experience, they tailored a custom sleep spray for me to alleviate restlessness, and it worked wonders. They heard my concerns and jumped to help; that is what community is all about helping each other in times of need.


In a world where genuine care and compassion shine through their creations, George and Lane are beacons of light, reminding us that self-love is the foundation upon which we can build stronger connections and a brighter future.


Vendor highlights are all about shining a spotlight on the heart and soul of each vendor and learning more about the who, the what and the why around their story. If you’ve enjoyed this journey, join us again next week for another vendor and a new highlight as we continue celebrating the outstanding contributors that make our Market a genuinely magical place.

WHO CAN YOU FIND AT THE FARMERS MARKET?

This is the list, folks! See who you can find at the Outdoor Farmers’ Market this Saturday, September 16th from 8AM to 1PM on the Rotary Square. Click on their names to find information on pre-orders and to learn more about their farms and businesses! 

SATURDAY LIVE MUSIC

Vinnie will be performing this Saturday on the Rotary Square from 8:30am to 10:30am.

Referred to as the “One Man Rhythm Section”, local musician Vinnie Vincenzo has been playing music on stages since the age of 14. Vinnie relocated to London in 1991 and has been supporting local musicians through hosting open mic nights around town for 31 years. Vinnie is the founding member of local duo “2 For the Show” playing classic rock favourites which he also plays on his acoustic guitar. Vinnie has also been heavily involved in drum circles by hosting and providing drums to anyone who would like to participate.

SATURDAY LIVE MUSIC

David Rayo will be performing this Saturday on the Rotary Square from 11am to 1pm.

Born in Nicaragua, David went to H.B. Beal where he joined the Jazz Band and other musical groups. At the same time, his participation in church musical groups gave him the practice hours needed to solidify his musical upbringing. After graduating from university, David worked as an English instructor in South Korea where he played in an original rock band named Taste of Dynomite and latin-infused music with Aqui Band. Upon his return to London, David formed Los Synco Latin Band in 2008. In the years since, David has continued to work on his song writing abilities while performing in various venues in and around London.

SATURDAY COOKING DEMO

This Saturday, join us in the market kitchen for our cooking class hosted by Kimi Abdullah. Kimi will be demonstrating how to make fall salads.


SATURDAY DEMO SCHEDULE

  • Saturday, September 16 | Kimi Abdullah – Fall Salads
  • Saturday, September 23 | Polina Shadman – Persian Appetizers – Gluten free & some vegan options available
  • Saturday, September 30 | Jaime Pena – Burgers

Doors open at 10:40am, class starts at 11am. No registration is required. First come, first served.

MULTICULTURAL SUNDAYS AT THE MARKET

This Multicultural Sunday at the Market is extra special as it is taking place on Door Open London Weekend! For this year’s Doors Open London, the Market is partnering with Hindu Legacy to host our 6th Multicultural Market to showcase cultures from around the world.


Hindu Legacy is an educational and advocacy organization established in London, Ontario. The group focuses on educating the public about Hinduism and advocating for practices that ensure the well-being of all people. They work directly with educators to ensure an accurate understanding of Hindus and Hinduism. Collaborating with the Covent Garden Market this year, Hindu Legacy promotes dignity, mutual respect, and inclusivity.

  • Embark on a journey into the rich heritage of Hindu art, dance, music, clothing, and henna.

  • Immerse yourself in the captivating displays that showcase the beauty and symbolism of Hindu traditions.

  • Don’t miss out on the delicious eats that await you at every turn with an explosion of tastes from diverse culinary traditions, including how to make a simple recipe of Chai and fritters

Savor your taste buds by checking out our food vendors

  • Filipino Community (FCALD)
  • Koshri Express
  • Alla’s Pierogies
  • La Parrillada
  • New Delhi Deli
  • Tamarind Candy “Monrito”
  • Fil-Can Food Fanatics

Embark on a delightful exploration of our artisan vendors

  • Matico Arte Manual
  • Zee Store
  • Hungarian Art & Fashion
  • Shaperfect
  • Beautiful by Romana
  • Sensalik Jewelry

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures as you explore the multicultural market, buzzing with energy on Rotary Square!