BENTONVILLE, Ark. — The Bentonville Winter Market was back this year and local small businesses and shoppers couldn't have been happier.
On Saturday, Nov. 27, hundreds of shoppers mulled around the Bentonville Square looking for unique and handmade gifts to purchase for family, friends or themselves this holiday season.
For local businesses, the market was an opportunity to reach new customers and show off all they have to offer. From handmade wooden signs, blacksmiths, to chocolates and candies, there was something for all ages to enjoy.
Santa Claus even made a special trip south of the North Pole, visiting some of the small businesses, to help his elves find what they need to get presents for this year's "Nice List."
"They just help with all these little knick-knacks," Santa said. "They just help supply the elves with whatever they need."
Coleta Rose, owner of Coleta's Creations had a booth for the first time this year and says how touched she was to see "how many people support small businesses."
Rose makes handmade wooden signs and recently took up designing tumblers in an effort to broaden her business and provide customers with a unique gift they won't find anywhere else.
One local shopper, Rachel Farrell described what it feels like to find that perfect gift for the holidays.
"You don't get those feelings all the time in a big store," Farrell said. "These are all unique and creative gifts."
Not only could shoppers find premade items all along the square, but on one corner they could watch a potential gift being made right in front of them.
Sioux Creek Forge, a blacksmithing company located just outside of Bentonville, set up shop with father and sons crafting metals into one-of-a-kind items available to take home.
Blacksmith, Walker Frink was happy to show off his creations.
"I can't really describe the feeling," he said. "It's just one of those things where you can make it and watch somebody be really happy with it as they walk away as a happy customer."
With plenty of food and dozens of local businesses, shoppers were entertained all day as they looked for that perfect gift, whether they knew it or not. The Bentonville Winter Market provided the perfect place to start the holiday shopping season.
If you are interested in any of the personalized wooden signs or tumblers, check out Coleta's Creations on Facebook here.
You can also get in touch with Sioux Creek Forge to have your next gift hand-crafted by messaging them on Facebook or calling them at, (479) 657-1775.