East End

Makers Market

The East End Makers Market is a community-driven idea that aligns with Raan’s ethos of inclusivity and support for local businesses. We recommend utilising the co-working level over the weekend, once-per-month, for local artisans to showcase their creations and sell their items - be it pottery, clothing, artwork, etc. The market encourages residents to come together and is a great way to connect the local area. Outlined below are some ideas for making the market a successful and permanent fixture at Raan.

The East End Makers Market to include a diverse range of local artisans and small businesses from painters and sculptors, jewellery makers, woodworkers, clothing, second-hand retailers, etc. The diversity in exhibitors ensures a broad spectrum for guests to enjoy. Each month, there could be a rotating selection of exhibitors to keep things fresh and interesting, encouraging guests to return regularly.

To add a unique spin to the Makers Market, we recommend using some of the space to host interactive workshops i.e. painting or jewellery making, where guests can make their own art.

Another lovely element would be dedicating a space of the restaurant for community art exhibits. Working with local schools and youth groups to display art from the students each month.

A designated children’s art corner would also be a welcome element for families, where kids can create their own arts and crafts throughout the day.

We recommend doing a special offer at the restaurant for guests of the Makers Market - i.e. a welcome glass of wine, beer, soft drink, coffee or tea.

To market and PR the event, Cru would draft and send out a press release about the launch - highlighting the participating vendors, special initiatives and collaborations with the local area. We would pitch the market for ‘What to do this weekend’ roundups to local publications, magazines, radio stations as well as London-centric press i.e. Evening Standard, Metro, etc.

On the social media side, we’d recommend creating a buzz around the launch of the market by creating sneak peek posts of the different products and vendors that will be there each month. Behind the scenes stories and interviews with the vendors would also add a nice touch as well as count downs to the event in stories. We will also work with local influencers as well as Facebook groups and forums to get the word out.

A great way to build your email database will be to encourage people to sign up to be the first to receive information about the market’s launch. We will then send out regular newsletters and event updates to this database that includes topics such as vendor spotlights, exclusive offers at the restaurant, etc.

Flyers are also a great way to generate awareness of the event. We recommend distributing flyers at community events, local schools, etc with a QR code to purchase tickets.