Fresno State students filled the Memorial Gardens on Sept. 27 from 3-5:30 p.m. to enjoy a flurry of vendors from fellow students, alumni and community members.
Beneath the shaded trees of Fresno State’s Memorial Gardens sat an array of 32 popups, each with their own draw, presented by Fresno State Spotlight Events’ Spotlight Market.
University resources were present as well such as Library Services, homecoming, the Cross Cultural and Gender Center along with Dog Days. Even a caricature artist was bringing students comedic joy on the garden lawn.
Various students showcased their entrepreneurship in true Bulldog fashion with ‘do it yourself’ merchandise. Student branded clothing and carefully collected vintage Bulldog apparel were omnipresent within the market canopies. Handmade art and jewelry scattered the lawn as curious students bartered.
Notable local companies Dutch Bros, Yummy Minis and The Corn Dog Company saw consistent action as the hours passed, seeing lines reach far around the outskirts of the square. Student vendors also saw their share of customers as students discussed prices and Cash App usernames.
Within a small window of downtime The Collegian spoke with senior Ari Gonzales as she took a moment to rest. Gonzales holds six pop-up markets a month, offering a wide collection of vibrantly painted canvases under the name Ari’s Art. Early morning classes did not deter Gonzales from setting up her booth as she referenced her schedule.
“I went viral on Tik Tok for my work but had to slow down when I started freshman year,” Gonzales said.
She detailed her passion for art, highlighting her own discipline to the promotion of her work.
“I love the fine line,” she said.
Alumni and community members also raised booths to showcase their craft, capitalizing on the prime real estate of Fresno State’s pedestrian highway.
Alumna Jennifer Juarez interacted with students promoting her clothing brand With a Purpose Apparel, speaking on her memories learning graphic design at Fresno State.
Juarez has an interest in typography which projects into the clothing, primarily promoting the gospel.
Responding to the question of mustering motivation, Juarez had some words that gave a sense of honesty to the words on her product.
“Bringing hope to people,” Juarez said.
Fresno State’s Spotlight Market showcased Bulldogs best merchants to close out this week’s classes, allowing for the students and community to benefit from the shared passions found throughout the campus.
