What happens when you mix food and beer with local crafters and their an array of home-made items? The answer: “a carefully curated collection of artisans.”

The first ever such Kraft.Pop-Up Market took place in June at Sleeping Giant Brewing Co., and attracted three dozen vendors. By all accounts it was a success.

“I have been overwhelmed with the support of the Thunder Bay community!” exclaims Hilary Hoogsteen, who organized the event with Kate Strange. “Kate and I are both new to Thunder Bay and we can’t believe how this community loves and gets behind local artisans.”

The next event is set for Sept. 8, again at Sleeping Giant brewery, and Hoogsteen anticipates more than 40 artisans will be out with their wares. On display will be a gamut of products, from embroidery to jewellery, to pottery and steel-forged items.

Strange herself sells Australian-inspired soy and coconut wax candles.

“In addition to selling my candles, I think it is a great opportunity to network with my fellow artisans and engrain myself in the crafting community in Thunder Bay,” she says.