The Maker and Merchant showcases more than 100 Florida businesses in its shop

The Maker and Merchant is dedicated to showcasing local small businesses. Its Tampa shop, located inside the Citrus Park Town Center (8021 Citrus Park Dr), currently supports more than 90 creators and makers in the state of Florida. Many of these businesses are from Tampa and cities in the greater Tampa Bay region.

One such local entrepreneur, Kim Hendren, showcases her Mixology business inside the shop. Customers can browse items such as peppermint candy cane hot chocolate, white chocolate espresso, and hot chocolatini mixes beautifully packed inside quaint glass tubes.

Talataa Colombia owner Claudia features her own stunning Colombian Wayuu Bags and Handmade Accessories in the shop. You can also find Claudio in Winter Village’s vendor market at Curtis Hixon Park.

Another artist, May Turner, is the visionary behind Phoenix Fire Designs. May specializes in handcrafted artisan jewelry dedicated to beautiful, high-quality, and custom designs. Her signature piece is the Tree of Life pendant which is made from genuine gemstones and you’ll also notice Swarovski crystals in a majority of her pieces.

Kelsey Brauer, both an employee at the store and an artist, is the owner of Kesley Brauer Art. Kelsey is a mixed-media artist who primarily creates beach-inspired art and home decor. Her pieces are mainly made from resin. Recently Kelsey decided to expand her products into stationary items.

Each of these makers contributes to the one-of-a-kind handmade nature of The Maker and Merchant. You can browse candles by Seventh Avenue Apothecary, Tampa throw pillows by Moo Mo Studio, mugs by Doodles By Rebekah, and even snacks by Toffee To Go.

Over the summer, an ambitious 12-year-old named Justen became the youngest featured creator in the store. His business, Justen’s Kids Goodies, specializes in gourmet cereal treats.

You can follow The Maker and Merchant on Instagram and Facebook to view more featured vendors inside the store.

What to read next:

• Two major rooftop concerts announced for Tampa
• Hotel Haya hosts an extravagant New Year’s Eve celebration
• Robert’s Christmas Wonderland is open year-round in Florida
• Tampa’s huge Santa Fest Parade is this weekend