Spring Brings a Marketplace Festival that is OF THESE MOUNTAINS

by Tracy McCoy

When local entrepreneur and brand creator Kendall Rumsey had the idea for the first Of These Mountains Marketplace event, he wondered how it would go over. He had established a curated collection of local and regional vendors whose handmade creations joined his outdoor apparel brand in his store in Clayton, Georgia. The response in the store had been extremely positive and the vendors were so pleased to have a place to display their wares. “Why, I wondered, couldn’t I celebrate these artists and fine crafters and others each spring and fall and invite others to discover their products as well. So, I started in Fall of 2020 with the first ever Of These Mountains Marketplace at the Rabun County Civic Center Pavilions in downtown Clayton, Georgia. I was completely blown away by the success! We had nearly 100 vendors at our first show and have had over 100 at every show since.” Kendall shared. I personally know how successful it was because I attended as a vendor at the first event and it was truly a celebration of creative and incredible artists and business owners. I coin it a celebration because the atmosphere was alive with a vibe that commemorated the spirit of entrepreneurship and artistic endeavors.

This spring will bring to the community the 4th Of These Mountains Marketplace event. You will want to mark your calendars and save the date of May 13th (10 am – 5 pm) so you do not miss this event. Come hungry and bring your wallet because I guarantee you are going to walk away with something you’ll treasure. You will no doubt meet some amazing people and you will talk about it until the event returns in the fall. Kendall’s idea was a great one, welcomed by the community and embraced by the vendors. When you come, be sure to walk through downtown Clayton and discover some of the most eclectic shops, galleries, restaurants and stores anywhere! We are proud of our town and the experience it offers. I think you’ll see why hundreds of thousands of people visit each year.

The Rabun County Civic Center Pavilions are located at 201 West Savannah Street in Clayton, Georgia. Don’t forget to visit Kendall’s Of These Mountains store at 39 East Savannah Street, also in Clayton. Also visit www.ofthesemountains.com for more information or to shop! I felt compelled to share the brand’s mission as it resonates with me and so many others that were born here or have roots that run deep.

Of These Mountains was created as both a lifestyle apparel brand and a love letter to North Georgia, written through designs from local artisans. All of our unique outdoor t-shirts, stickers, and hats pay respect to the natural beauty and life that we are so fortunate to be able to experience here in our community. We believe good things come from nature and are dedicated to creating unique products and content that inspire others to seek new adventure and live their life to the fullest.