By Alesha Capone
Point Cook woman Elaine Gilligan has started a website to serve as a virtual craft market for local makers, bakers, artists and designers.
Ms Gilligan said was inspired to start the Point Cook Handmade Market because she knew a number of talented local crafters and artisans who run their own businesses, making everything from cakes to candles.
She said the pandemic was preventing most types of markets being held, meaning there were not many ways for these businesses to attract new customers, apart from their online presence.
She said that in addition, many Point Cook residents were keen to support local businesses.
“I started thinking, why isn’t there a place or platform for these people to look?” Ms Gilligan said.
The Point Cook Handmade Market has categories including art, baby and children’s gifts, baths and body, fashion, accessories, food and drink, gift hampers, jewellery and home décor.
Ms Gilligan said she hoped the website might also lead to some local businesses collaborating.
The Point Cook Handmade Market’s Facebook page has also attracted around 450 followers since it was established last month.
“It’s good to have a community page to connect everyone,” Ms Gilligan said.
She said the Point Cook Handmade Market did not charge a commission. It costs $5 a month for a business to have its name, contact details and website listed on the Point Cook Handmade Market website.
Details: pointcookhandmademarket.com.au/ or www.facebook.com/pointcookhandmademarket
