The Village Makers Market: Crafting Community in East Rochester

The Village Makers Market: Crafting Community in East Rochester

Hello, I'm Courtney Colletta Magoon, founder of Fernwick Artisans and the organizer behind the Village Makers Market. My journey began in September 2024 when I started Fernwick Artisans, fueled by a passion for handcrafted goods and a desire to bring something special to our tight-knit community in East Rochester.

Growing up here since I was 13, my roots here ran deep before I ever lived here myself. My mother and step father, both graduates of the local high school, moved back to East Rochester after my mother remarried. Our family names—Magoon and Corea—are well-known here in this little town. My beloved grandfather Mac was a respected local business owner and fireman and my grandfather Charlie founded the ER Pennysaver. In a place where family legacies are cherished, I felt a strong connection to contribute to the community's fabric.

From Vision to Reality

Inspired by the town's enthusiasm for small, local, charitable craft events, I decided to create something that would not only support local artisans but also strengthen our community bonds. Without extensive research or resources, I took a leap of faith—planning to operate as a sole proprietorship and rallying a few friends to bring the idea to life.

Initially, the journey was overwhelming. Organizing an event alone, especially without much support from the town, presented numerous challenges. There were moments when I doubted whether it would all come together. The idea seemed too big, and the obstacles too daunting.

A Helping Hand

Just when things felt most uncertain, Anna from Bewitched Coffee Co.—our steadfast coffee vendor from the beginning—approached me offering her support. Her enthusiasm and willingness to help reignited the possibilities I had once envisioned. With a partner by my side, the daunting task became manageable, opening doors to new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Shamrock Showcase: Our Humble Beginning

In March 2024, we held our first event—the Shamrock Showcase. Hosted in a cozy venue that accommodates up to 18 vendors, the event was modest but meaningful. We may not have had live music or entertainment yet, but the heart of the market was alive and well.

Highlights:

  • Supporting Education: We raised $500 for the Daryl Pierson Scholarship Fund at our local high school. This amount fully funded the scholarship, directly benefiting a student's educational journey. This first event was still our most successful to date.
  • Community Engagement: Residents came together to support local artisans, reinforcing the importance of community events in our small town.
  • Milestones Achieved: We've since hosted our first food truck and are exploring ways to incorporate live music and entertainment in future events.

Challenges and Resilience

Operating with no income or external funding, organizing the market has been a labor of love. Navigating the complexities of establishing a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization without legal assistance is tough, but we're committed to making it happen. Every challenge is met with determination, driven by the vision of creating a sustainable, community-focused market that can be passed on to future generations.

Deep Roots in East Rochester

East Rochester is more than just a town; it's home—a place where everyone knows your name and family histories are woven into daily life. My family's legacy here inspires me to continue contributing to our community's story. The Village Makers Market is my way of honoring that legacy and giving back to the town that has given me so much.

Looking Ahead

With Anna's partnership and the support of local artisans, I'm optimistic about the future:

  • Building a Team: Together, we're working to expand the market's reach and impact.
  • Community Involvement: We hope to encourage more residents to participate as vendors, volunteers, or attendees.
  • Inspiring the Next Generation: Our goal is to nurture the market so it can be entrusted to younger generations, ensuring it becomes a lasting tradition in East Rochester.

Join Us on This Journey

The Village Makers Market is more than an event—it's a reflection of our community's heart and soul. I invite you to be part of this journey:

  • Visit Our Market: Your presence supports local artisans and strengthens community ties.
  • Get Involved: Whether through volunteering, offering resources or spreading the word, every little contribution makes a huge difference.
  • Share Your Ideas: Community is everything. We will be organizing a community discussion platform & newsletter, so if you have suggestions or would like to contribute in any way, we'd love to hear from you.

Stay Connected:

Thank you for being part of our story. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant and connected community in East Rochester.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Courtney Colletta Magoon

Founder, Fernwick Artisans and organizer of the Village Markets ER

P.S. If you're interested in joining the Village Makers Market as a vendor, volunteer, or supporter, please reach out. Let's make a difference together!

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