Written by: Shanice Pillay

Great energy, great food and good people! This is what I Heart Market brought to Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

The event which occurs every month, showcases a variety of local entrepreneurs, their products and talent. Many who attended the event agreed they came for the great atmosphere and to support local businesses.

“The reason we came is for the (good) vibes and the people; there’s always something different that is happening and to support local talent,” said Bianca Van Der Merwe.

Mabo Mthethwa said she came out to support her friend who is a designer and always has a stall at the event.

Speaking to Shev Connolly owner of ‘Shevdogs’, she was pleased about being sold out within two hours of the opening.

“This is my first time at I heart Market and I prepped for 100 hotdogs and we are sold out. At Shevdogs we make ‘bitchin hotdogs’ that’s our motto, so basically it’s hotdogs with some really cool toppings like nachos, bacon or chicken it’s a little fun and interesting,” added Connolly.

Tarryn Smith from Smith’s Bake Shop has been at the event for the past four years and she said that being at I Heart Market has really helped with the exposure of her business.

Event assistant Thando Selolo, said the event is aimed at promoting local businesses.

“I Heart Market is to promote local businesses and locally crafted produce, to give traders a platform to showcase their items as well as for people to know who their traders are and where they can get their produce,” said Selolo.

*Caption: Local businesses and customers at the event