A local crafting Christmas market has finally returned after a two year break

This weekend Cardiff’s Chapter Arts Centre hosted the Snapped-Up indoor Christmas market for the first time since the pandemic

The interactive print area was popular with the market attendees (Credit: Hannah Watkin)

Snapped-Up’s Christmas market has returned this weekend after a two-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The market took place in Cardiff’s Chapter Arts Centre and displayed a range of different art made by local crafters.

Tom Whitehead and Helen Bellamy set up the organisation, Snapped-Up, 10 years ago. It originated from a group of printers that worked in small offices, but once they became popular they moved to Chapter.

Helen said, “During the last two years we haven’t done anything. We used to run the market twice a year, but when we moved buildings and the pandemic hit, the market couldn’t run for a while.”

However, Tom and Helen are glad to be back. This market is their first event since re-opening and they said it’s good to see “some familiar faces”.

Likewise, the pair are delighted that business hasn’t been too affected by the pandemic. Helen remarked that on Saturday footfall was really good and on Sunday the market was busy from opening.

Corrie Lewis-Bishop sold ceramics at the Snapped-Up Christmas market on Sunday (Credit: Hannah Watkin)

Corrie Lewis-Bishop, one of the makers, is also happy to be back selling at Snapped-Up. She said, “I don’t do many markets throughout the year, but I always do this one.” She recalled that the organisers have a great relationship with makers and always provide them with the information of the event in advance.

Corrie also added that they supply free mince pies, which is a bonus.

As well as doing a Christmas market, Tom and Helen are currently thinking about their summer plans.

The pair are considering creating an interactive event where people can watch the printers at work and learn a bit for themselves.

Tom, Helen and Corrie all have businesses that can be found on Instagram. Tom’s is called Ed and Flo, Helen’s is Nelly’s Treasures, and Corrie’s is Ceramic 67.


Why you should shop small this Christmas:
  1. You are supporting your local community
  2. Small businesses often have high quality products
  3. You can find something original and special for your loved ones
  4. As it is made locally, it helps to reduce your carbon footprint

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