By Hannah Stumpf | Echo
On Oct. 7 at 9 a.m., the second Autumn Market will take place at The Bridge Cafe in downtown Upland. Jamie Hughes ('13) has been in charge of the market since The Bridge's beginning, with the exception of last year, when Hughes was on maternity leave. This year, The Bridge expects a large turnout with 16 vendors in total.
While it may merely look like a fun event, the mission of the market and The Bridge has always been deeper.
"We love markets!" said Hughes. "Cathy (Kerton-Johnson) has inspired me with her knowledge and experience with European style markets and so that's what got me excited to plan this for this year! We will also be doing a winter market as well. My hope is that we can have a market each season. With activities that match.This event helps to showcase The Bridge's mission to connect the community to local artisans."
Djecky Adams has only been employed at The Bridge for a month. Even the short time Adams has been employed has made him feel like a member of The Bridge's family.
"The Bridge is really about creating a space where people can gather together to create meaningful and lasting interactions with one another," Adams said. "And I hope during the autumn market, to see this on a larger capacity."
This year, The Bridge is holding their vendors to a higher standard. Market organizers desired a variety of local artisans, but had to overcome the challenge of limited parking space. Mainly, they wanted to provide a "one-stop shop" for high-quality work that can sometimes be hard to come by.
Vendors include Junior Print and the 26 N Boutique, which is housed in a vintage airstream trailer. Of course, it would not be The Bridge without ceramics and fresh flowers.
Fall is the perfect time to try new food. The Bridge will be offering its regular menu inside with the addition of its fall drinks menu. Have an allergy? The Bridge has gluten-free, vegan and allergy-friendly options. The artisan on shift will accommodate any substitutions or subtractions to a recipe necessary to enjoying all The Bridge has to offer.
Senior Carly Seitz is looking forward to the classic menu along with seasonal drinks.
For Adams, what sets The Bridge apart is the South African pizza, but that is not the only thing that makes The Bridge unique.
"But, I think, that's because the Autumn Market is so diverse," Adams said. "It's not just one thing for every body. It's many things; many vendors, many different kinds of art. You just have to find what moves you. That will be your favorite."
Parents and Family Weekend also falls on Oct. 7. The Bridge is planning on face painting and apple bobbing for kids to make it a family event. If all goes accordingly, there will also be live music.
Vendors interested in showcasing their work or artists wishing to play live music for a future event, contact thebridgeuplandevents@gmail.com for future market opportunities.
