My Time At The buy black nb Juneteenth Vendor Market

By Kyleah Bodden

Despite the pending forecast, BuyBlack NB's Annual Juneteenth Vendor Market persevered and took place on June 16, 2023 at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and was extremely successful. The energy in the space was palpable. Vendors were eager to share their products and talents with the community. As I walked through the beautiful garden grounds I was in awe, not only of the wide variety of goods and services that were being sold, but the care and attention to detail that each vendor placed into their craft. I was inspired by the passion that drove many of the vendors to create such beautifully curated products. 

One of the first stops I made while entering the space was to Fusion Dolls which is based out of Brockton. Their table was filled with beautiful brown skin dolls, inspirationally quoted totes, jibbitz, and more. I ended up purchasing a red sage smudge stick and a handful of jibbitz. As I worked my way through the various vendors I was attracted to Anika Tyshia Skin Care. The table was decorated with an array of skin care products that were designed for melanated skin. I gladly picked out a turmeric infused soap that is both soothing and refreshing. I also had the opportunity to stop by Faith Endures where I bought a pineapple margarita scented candle, and Sucka Free where I was introduced to natural bug repellent; I just had to purchase a bottle. Lastly, I visited Crafted by A&A where I bought a beautifully designed wall-hanging shelf unit for my bedroom.

I left the market with a renewed sense of community and various items that were bought in support of Black business owners. I enjoyed my time spent at the market and can’t wait for next year!