Today we’d like to introduce you to Sammi-Jack Martincak.
Hi Sammi-Jack, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I am an actress who appreciates young artists and creators. While on a set in London I discovered markets that showcased young designers in amazing venues. It has been a dream of mine to open a marketplace like the London Pop-ups. Trendy and affordable, a place to showcase new designs. Hence the beginnings of JUNCTION MARKET PLACE, where I have discovered new artists and designers. Junction is essentially a pop-up that vendors exhibit their creations. I love the creativity of my vendors and although I believe in inclusivity, I try to keep my market female-forward! As an actress and a lover of fashion, I have combined my two areas of expertise to open an indoor marketplace where we cultivate new upcoming brands and local artist.
I understand what it feel like put yourself on the line and as a freelance artist, it sometimes feels daunting and lonely. I try to be an aid to my vendors in any way we can be! Combining all my resources I launched Junction Marketplace. With outstanding reviews from our first weekends, I am now doing an indoor holiday market, curated at a beautiful Art Gallery LA ART BOX. 8020 Melrose Ave, between Fairfax and La Cienega.
On any given market we have 20-25 Local artists and brands. Each booth enables a vendor to simulate its own store. It is well-curated and an extremely fun place to shop! We have local DJs playing, a coffee bar, and even a natural wine bar! For our holiday market were opening up our own booth where our shoppers can DIY design their own phone charm, design a bralette, or do some fun crafts from our childhood. We even found a shrinky dink machine for our shoppers to do some super nostalgic crafts.
We have designer ice cream, Jewlery, potery, clothing, candles, creative food chefs, and of course our unique artists with clothing, housewares, and items that I have discovered.
Junction is definitely an LA place to stop and SHOP!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Junction Market Place has been a dream so far. As a young women and entrepreneur, I was told “no you can’t do this” more than I was told, “yes let me help you!” I never took no for an answer.
I met Bernie, the owner of our venue LA Art box and she became my fairy godmother for this passion project. She believed in me and my vision and helped Junction Marketplace have a forever home. I really do believe if it’s meant to be it WILL be, and women helping women should be a staple in our society!
Other than that, I am constantly inventing new ways to keep vendors happy and spread the word about Junction Marketplace. I wear A LOT of hats during market days and although I have a GREAT team of women behind me, it’s always an uphill battle! but at the end of the day (of a successful market weekend) It’s ALL worth the hard work!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am proud to be in the creative industry. Artists and are important. Whether you are a performer, creator, painter, innovator, designer, or filmmaker you are adding to the beauty of the world. Telling a story in any creative media is essential to all.
I am an actress and Founder of Junction Marketplace.
Junction Marketplace is an Indoor hyper-curated vendor market! We host 20 local artists and brands as well as up-and-coming chefs and a natural wine and coffee bar. Admission is Free!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Credit goes to all my vendors who support Junction Marketplace. Credit goes to all the clients who come and purchase from my vendors. Credit goes to those who shop local and shop small business! and of course to the team at LA Art Box, 8020 Melrose, for being our beautiful venue.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @junction_marketplace