The Crafty Creations Art Fair took place on April 18 on Main Street in the Culp Center. The market was put on by the Collegiate Merchandising Association, showcasing local businesses as they set up shop for ETSU students from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Collegiate Merchandising Association (CMA) of ETSU is part of the College of Business and Technology. The CMA puts on events such as the small business farmer’s market as well as their newest addition, the Crafty Creations Art Fair. The idea behind the CMA is to promote the merchandising program but also to provide students with the skills and information necessary in facilitating professional development and connect local businesses with the community.

(Contributed/@etsumerchandising Instagram)

Art fairs are a perfect opportunity for ETSU organizations such as CMA to highlight members’ skills. The communication and preparation needed for such events are just a few of the skills CMA strives to promote in each of their members.

The vendors that volunteered for the fair were local businesses run not only by community members but also ETSU students such as junior Cal Blagg. Blagg marketed his hand-drawn and hand-painted art. Bryson Berry promoted his homemade body care business, Black Rose. Crochet animals, handmade jewelry, pagan crafts and much more were at the hands of ETSU students to not only buy, but also discover.

“I’ve had many great opportunities with CMA such as coordinating small business markets like these. Being able to showcase local businesses to ETSU students is one part of what it means to be a member of CMA,” said CMA president McKenzie Dawson.

The Collegiate Merchandising Association is always accepting new members, regardless of your major. To get started, check out their Instagram @etsumerchadising. Through their social media, students can register for the organization and stay in the know about meetings or future events.

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