Sioux Falls’ Empire Mall is now home to Mulberry Market, a new and exciting space dedicated to showcasing local and regional entrepreneurs. With about 50 vendors, this market provides a permanent, year-round platform for small businesses, offering a fresh shopping experience just in time for the holiday rush. It’s a first-of-its-kind venture for the mall, aiming to bring the community and local artisans closer together.
A New Hub for Local Artisans
Mulberry Market is a significant and novel addition to the Empire Mall. Jamie Bendewald, the owner, highlighted its uniqueness, stating, “Actually the Mall has really never had anything like this at all in the Mall. So we’re kind of the first people to come just bring something like this with multiple vendors and different people in here.”
This move provides a stable and consistent retail space for creators who typically rely on seasonal events. Instead of temporary setups at craft fairs, these businesses now have a permanent storefront.
This gives them a full-time, all year long, to be able to make their products and show them, a major advantage over the sporadic nature of craft shows. This stability allows them to grow their brands and connect with a larger audience.
What Shoppers can Find at the Market
The variety at Mulberry Market is one of its biggest draws. The collection of vendors ensures that there is something to catch everyone’s eye, from intricate handmade goods to modern tech creations.
Shoppers can explore a wide range of products, including:
- Handmade jewelry and accessories
- Custom woodworking and home decor
- Innovative 3D printed items and gadgets
- Unique magnets and other small gifts
Bendewald noted the incredible diversity, saying, “I mean, we have anywhere from clothes to woodworking to 3D printing to magnets… There’s just about anything you could find in here.” This eclectic mix transforms a simple shopping trip into a discovery of local talent.
A Boost for Holiday Shopping
The market’s opening is perfectly timed for the holiday season. Dan Geis, the General Manager of Empire Mall, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “To bring more locals to the Mall is outstanding. We have great locals already, local businesses. So, really happy that they’re here.”
This new hub offers a convenient one-stop-shop for those looking for unique, meaningful gifts while supporting the local economy. The convenience of having multiple local vendors under one roof means shoppers can find a wide array of gifts without leaving the mall.
Here is a breakdown of the vendor categories available for holiday shoppers:
| Category | Number of Vendors | Types of Products |
|---|---|---|
| Apparel | 10 | Handmade clothing, accessories |
| Home Goods | 8 | Custom furniture, decor items |
| Technology | 5 | 3D printed gadgets, electronics |
| Art & Crafts | 12 | Paintings, sculptures, crafts |
| Unique Gifts | 15 | Personalized items, novelty gifts |
Fostering Community and Connection
Previously located near the Marion intersection, Mulberry Market’s move to the Empire Mall marks a new chapter. The former location is set to close at the end of the month, solidifying the mall as its new permanent home.
This partnership is seen as a major win for the entire community. It not only increases foot traffic for all mall retailers but also strengthens the connection between shoppers and the creators behind the products.
Geis concluded that the initiative is about more than just commerce. “It’s not just about shopping; it’s about connecting with the people who make our community unique.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mulberry Market?
Mulberry Market is a new retail space inside the Empire Mall in Sioux Falls that houses around 50 local and regional vendors. It provides a year-round platform for small businesses and artisans to sell their unique, handcrafted products.
Where is Mulberry Market located?
The market is now a permanent fixture inside the Empire Mall in Sioux Falls. Its previous location near the Marion intersection will be closing at the end of the month.
What kind of products can I find at the market?
You can find a diverse range of items, including handmade jewelry, custom woodworking, 3D printed gadgets, unique magnets, apparel, home goods, and various arts and crafts. It’s an ideal place for finding one-of-a-kind gifts.
How does the market benefit local businesses?
It provides local artisans with a consistent, full-time retail presence, which is a significant step up from seasonal craft fairs. This allows them to reach a wider audience, build their brand, and have a stable location for sales throughout the year.
