One can never guess what goods they might discover at a flea market. Beeswax candles, hand-sewn pillows, or artisanal glassware — the possibilities never end.

For Indie Flea GR co-owners April Moayyer and Amanda Perry, that’s the point.

“Uniqueness is what we offer,” Moayyer said. “You can buy a plaque from Hobby Lobby that everyone else has or request that someone living not very far away make something custom for you.”

Launched in 2017, Indie Flea GR provides a space for artists, craftspeople, and foodies to promote their small businesses and network with one another.

Every first Saturday of the month, over 45 vendors sell wares ranging from CBD products to rice packs at the Community Media Center Annex on Wealthy street from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Among the booths, one might encounter a homemade jam-maker, an organic soap & body care expert, and a chiropractor who donates proceeds from appointments to non-profits.

Moayyer said that the market gives shoppers an alternative to mainstream stores, offering not only a place to buy interesting items, but also the opportunity to support local entrepreneurs in an eco-friendly environment.

“Big-box stores will always be around, but Indie Flea GR makes a bigger impact on the community,” Moayyer said. “When you buy something here, you’re buying something that someone poured their heart and soul into, and you’re supporting someone’s dream.”

Despite the growing popularity of local shopping, Indie Flea GR nearly closed last year.

When Perry, a two-year volunteer, heard that founder Eleanor Rigby was considering stepping down and selling the market, she offered to take over the operation in October, 2019.

“After some discussion and thought, we decided to keep (Indie Flea GR) going,” Perry said. “We didn’t want to see this place end.”

Vendor recruitment is Perry’s top priority for the 2020 season.

New hobbyists and students are eligible to share their work at the market, so long as they display a purpose statement explaining their background and passions.

“Some people use the market as a stepping stone on their way to becoming a brick and mortar, while others view this as a side gig,” Perry said. “Either way, it’s the perfect opportunity for people to test their products, get out of the kitchen, or try a different career path. We’re open to fresh ideas.”

Perry believes that the market is growing, and she hopes to attract larger crowds this year.

“You might spend a tiny bit more here, but vendors are willing to talk to you and give advice,” Perry said. “It’s not a competition. We want to see each other succeed.”

Indie Flea GR returns Feb. 1.