Aspiring young entrepreneurs took centre stage this summer as the NMTF Young Trader Market events made exciting stops in Great Dunmow, Chelmsford, and Braintree, showcasing a new wave of local talent, creativity, and business innovation.
Organised by the National Market Traders Federation, with support from the North Essex Economic Board, and local councils, the events offered young traders aged 16-30 the opportunity to develop their business skills, build confidence, and trade in real market environments. Showcasing the importance of the scheme, The North Essex Economic Board funded free stalls, and provided £200 seed funding for the participants to help them take their first steps into market trading.
Great Dunmow Highlights
Held at the popular Makers Market, the Great Dunmow heat welcomed four incredibly talented participants:
• 🏆 Winner: Holly Mulinder – Wee Bothy Art (www.weebothyart.com), known for her stunning watercolour landscapes and thoughtful design.
• Highly Commended: Eleanor Wellock – Kaolin Kiln (Etsy), ceramicist creating beautifully handcrafted pieces.
• Rachel Hanley – Rachel Hanley Illustration (Instagram), bringing characters and stories to life through delicate illustration.
• Thea Murray – Bandia Studio (www.bandiastudio.co.uk), offering sustainable, Celtic-inspired ceramics and homewares.
So impressive was the talent on show that all four traders were invited to represent the area at the regional finals in London and Bury St Edmunds.
Judging the event were 2023 National Final winner Jessica Moulsher, Cllr Carole Sullivan, Mayor of Great Dunmow, and Rachael Clark, Economic Development Officer at Uttlesford District Council.
“I had the loveliest time at the makers market last Saturday!” said Cllr Carole Sullivan. “The standard was so high—amazing to see such creativity and talent on display. I even picked up some gorgeous gifts. Nothing beats finding something handmade with heart.”
“This was my first year partaking in the young trader’s competition,” said Thea Murray, “and I found everybody so friendly and welcoming! It was lovely to meet fellow stall holders, and I’ve come away with ideas on how I could improve my stall.”
Chelmsford Standouts
Chelmsford’s vibrant event saw three brilliant young businesses:
• 🏆 Winner: Abby’s Art Atelier – (www.abbysartatelier.co.uk), offering handmade, elegant jewellery pieces.
• Highly Commended: Streets of Lily, showcasing expressive artwork.
• Highly Commended: Heavenly Angel, with homemade, delicious artisan ice cream (Facebook).
Both Abby and Angel will advance to the next heat in Bury St Edmunds on July 28th.
Braintree’s Buzzing Market
Braintree welcomed five diverse traders, each bringing something unique to the table:
Judged by Olivia’s Curiosities, Chairman of Braintree District Council Cllr Justin Wrench and Community Engagement Officer Jo Norris, the chosen winners were:
• 🏆 Winner: Tillie (Magically Matilda) – (Facebook): Novelty earrings, hair accessories, and quirky handmade items.
• 🏆 Winner: Kacey Ball – Kacey’s Customised Designs (Facebook): Personalised gifts including mugs, T-shirts, and keyrings.
• Highly Commended: Ciara Collins Allen – Bead and Button: Creative and colourful homeware, jewellery, and embroidery, including a commissioned piece for indie pop artist Remy Bond.
• Highly Commended: Bethan-Marie Lilley – Bethan-Marie’s Gifts (www.bethanmariegifts.com): Handmade gifts including greeting cards, woodwork, and apparel.
• Highly Commended: Ferdinand D’arcy Hulusi – Chain Imperative: Affordable, high-quality stainless steel jewellery for men and women.
The Braintree traders impressed with their passion and individuality, showing just how vibrant the future of market trading can be. All of the above will go through to the regional finals and have the chance to go through to the grand final held over the August bank holiday in Stratford-upon-Avon and the chance to be crowned UK’s Young Market Trader of the Year!
