“The Dayton Mall (location) was a success! We had happy shoppers,” said business partner/creative director Ashley Smith, also of Springboro. “Our goal is to bring together the best… local small business owners to showcase their boutiques and businesses.”
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The Spring Migration “Sip, Shop & Stroll” at the Warren County Fairgrounds this weekend will include live music by American Idol finalist Alexis Gomez. There will also be food trucks, and a beer/wine tasting by Hanover Winery.
More than 100 vendors will offer curated items like vintage/antique pieces, boutique fashion/accessories, repurposed/handcrafted, up-cycled and gourmet goods for sale. The first fifty shoppers to arrive on Friday and Saturday will receive a free ‘swag’ bag. Early arrivers will also get pre-sale perks like boutique gifts and coupons.
“Many items are handmade, one-of-a-kind, or even repurposed. These vendors put a lot of time and effort into their products, and the prices often reflect this,” said Smith.
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Brow’s entrepreneurship began in 2013 when she opened a small furniture and decor consignment boutique in Texas. Smith owned a children’s consignment shop in Arkansas.
“During my time as a shop owner, I participated in several local shopping markets and home shows where I sold my painted furniture, boutique items and vintage finds of my own,” said Brow. “Though these events were successful, they were nothing like the vision I have for Monarch Market.”
Brow indicated that her best friend Smith has an excellent eye for style, so Brow brought her on board as a creative director. As a military wife she moved often, so when they got orders to move to Ohio, she brainstormed the concept of a business that could move with her.
The concept works well, because many businesses are willing to showcase their goods, and Brow can run her events without any overhead. Future Monarch Market Affairs are scheduled for May 11 in Washington, May 18 at Tipton County Fairgrounds in Indiana, and October 13 in Elkhart, Indiana.
“Showcasing local businesses is a passion of ours; we both come from owning small boutiques in other states,” said Brow. “We know that local business if the heart of a community. We love that Monarch Market can give so many small businesses a chance to touch so many people in one weekend.”
How to Go:
What: Monarch Market
Sip, Shop, Stroll &
Royal Preview Party
Where: Warren County Fairgrounds
665 N. Broadway, Lebanon
When: Preview 5 to 9 p.m. Fri., Mar. 23
Mkt. Day 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., Mar. 24
Cost: $8 advance, $10 at door Friday
$5/all day Saturday
Free for 12 and under
More Info: 937-660-0072 or www.monarchmarketaffair.com
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