Meet Francesca! She’s a 15-year-old student from Manakau who’s just getting started in the market scene. With two markets under her belt, she’s already loving the experience and can’t wait to grow her stall. Passionate about creativity and business, Francesca is all about connecting with the community and seeing where this exciting journey takes her!
How did you first get involved with the Ōtaki Kids Market, and what inspired you to start your stall?
My mum found out about the winter entrepreneurial workshop that the Otaki Kids Market was having through facebook, and so I went to that with my younger sister, Zoe. She is what inspired me to start a stall because she loves crafting accessories and toys for barbies. So I joined in and got a stall alongside her :)
Can you tell us more about your creative process? How do you come up with ideas for your products?
I develop my paintings through trial and error, what looks nice and what doesn't. The actual painting inspiration is inspired by photos I see on pinterest, and whether I feel inspired by them or think 'that looks like a challenge to paint'. Trying interesting flowers with interesting colours is always fun.
The Otaki Kids Market has helped me grow by teaching me skills like organising ahead, and the social part of picking up on cues from customers and learning how to give them a good impression.
What was it like to receive a commission from MP Tim Costly? Can you share details about what you created for him?
I was very happy and excited that Tim Costly wanted to buy my cards. I got to work and created ten painted cards for him that I was very proud of, and happy to send off to him. He has been very supportive of my work since, and has mentioned another commission in the future.
Do you have a best seller? And if yes, what is it?
All of my cards are one of a kind, so I don't really have a best seller. At the first market I went to I was also painting bookmarks, but my cards sold quicker so I decided to only do cards at the next market.
What kind of feedback do you get from visitors to the market?
The feedback I get is positive and respectful, everyone at the market is extremely lovely and kind and it's an uplifting community to be a part of.

What advice would you give to other young people who are considering starting their own stall or business?
I would say to pay attention to the things that people like at your stall, even if they don't buy them. And to be proud of yourself for going and organising a stall because that's awesome.
What has been the most rewarding part of being part of the Ōtaki Kids Market?
One of the most rewarding things is the support and feedback I get. Knowing that people like the things I've made myself is a truly awesome feeling to have, it's so nice that I can help bring people together with my art.
Do you have any plans for expanding or changing your stall in the future? If so, what can we expect to see next from you?
I have thought about starting an instagram account, so that I can take commissions and people can find me after the market. I'm really excited and happy to be able to continue painting!!
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