The Polish Hall on Pearl Street was bustling Sunday as Brantford residents gathered for the Lunar Webb Fall Market, a one-day event featuring more than 30 local vendors, wrapped in the nostalgic charm of a 1990s sitcom theme.
From Fresh Prince-inspired outfits to Clueless-style plaid skirts, shoppers embraced the retro atmosphere while browsing handmade goods, sampling fall treats, and participating in raffles that directed proceeds back into the community.
Supporting Shelter Needs
Among those welcoming visitors was Jessica Hill, community development assistant at Nova Vita, who stood behind a table collecting donations of school-safe snacks and hygiene items.
“Our biggest needs are food, diapers, and hygiene products,” Hill said, noting that the rising cost of groceries has placed additional strain on families in their 33-bed shelter.
“We rely heavily on grants and donors, and events like this make a real difference. When the community comes together, it ensures our residents have what they need.”
Hill added that donations can be arranged directly with the shelter through appointments and that Nova Vita will soon launch its annual Hope for the Holidays campaign.
Building a Marketplace Tradition
The Lunar Webb Vendor Market began only a year ago but has quickly become a staple for small businesses.
“This is our one-year anniversary,” said Joshua Wall, who co-hosts the market with founder Veronica Webb, known locally for her candle business.
“We started with quarterly events, then added seasonal themes. Now we’re taking the next step—announcing that this will become a monthly market series right here at the Polish Hall.”
Wall explained that consistency is key for vendors: “The last Sunday of every month, people will know they can come here. It’s indoors, accessible, and it gives small businesses a reliable platform.”
Webb agreed, describing the event as more than just a marketplace: “It’s an incredible opportunity for vendors to collaborate, to meet people, and for young entrepreneurs to step forward. Every person who comes out is saying, ‘This is what we want—more local, more community.’”
Vendors Finding Their Footing
For some, Sunday marked their first time participating.
Orazio Caltagirone of Oh.See.Art displayed retro-inspired necklaces and paintings rooted in self-help and wellness.
“It’s definitely community-based,” he said. “You get that feeling of family here. People can see, touch, and connect with the art in a way that only happens face-to-face.”
Others are already regulars.
Meaghan Pite of Erie Dyes has now joined three markets, selling hand-dyed clothing and accessories.
“It’s helped my business a lot,” she said. “Josh and Veronica always share our posts, and the themes make it fun. It feels like a party.”
Community Connections
The crowd wasn’t limited to vendors. Shoppers like Erica James came not only to browse, but to support a principle.
“These tables aren’t free,” James said. “If people don’t support events like this, small vendors can’t make a profit. This helps families provide for themselves.”
DJ Grierson, also from Brantford, echoed the sentiment: “We came for the community vibe, and because they’re supporting Nova Vita. What they’re doing here is fantastic. If anyone isn’t coming out, they’re missing an opportunity to support something important.”
Looking Ahead
As the afternoon wound down, vendors packed up beneath banners splashed with neon-coloured ’90s motifs. But the spirit of the market was already turning toward the future—to November’s new monthly installment, and to December’s multicultural Yule Market, which will celebrate holiday traditions from around the world.
“Every market is about bringing people together,” said Webb. “And when people come together, great things happen,” she concluded.
