The Killeen Craft and Artisan Market was held on Saturday providing the opportunity for small business owners to display their merchandise in front of the public.
Several entrepreneurs set up stands the Killeen Arts and Activities Center to showcase their products and discuss the nature of their small businesses. Cristal Kuhn, the event coordinator, has been holding these events since September of last year. All of the businesses attending are local to Central Texas but vendors have also come in from Houston and Dallas, as well.
Kuhn plans on expanding the market in Killeen, and wants to host events that will provide a platform for future entrepreneurs.
“This is for small business owners and I want to do one with kids, as well, but I’m going to wait until I start getting this one going,” she said. “I’m trying to get a building that I want to buy so I can have indoor and outdoor markets for the community so kids can get more confident… You don’t see markets for kids.”
Kuhn plans on having market events for children as soon as December of this year, including a karate shop so children can partake in an interactive experience. Kuhn said she always has to go to Austin for markets and she is trying to accomplish providing a successful market here in Killeen.
Legna Roman-Real is the business owner of DIY By Legna and she attempts to attend markets at least once a month. Roman-Real runs her small business out of her garage on Tara Drive. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1994 when she was 14 years old. Attending all of her medical treatments does not leave time for her to obtain a regular job. Showcasing her merchandise at these markets benefit her and her family.
“It makes me feel helpful in my household. My husband is not the only one bringing in the money and doing everything. I can help him with our household,” she said.
A balloon twister is present at the market event held on Saturday in downtown Killeen.
