Contributor: Jamie Richardson
Market 94 owner Ashlynne Nestor fulfills dream of creating a permanent space for local artisans.
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On January 13th, Market 94 celebrated its soft opening on Union Street in downtown Concord, fulfilling owner Ashlynne Nestor’s dream. Ashlynne, a Cabarrus County native, has always had a deep love for Union Street. When friends and family visited, she would proudly guide them down the historic street to support local businesses.
- Her journey to Market 94 began with a desire to support local artisans and makers, inspired by her own experiences as a creator.
Ashlynne, a real estate professional by trade, had always harbored a passion for creating. From painting and crocheting to knitting and jewelry making, her artistic spirit found expression in various forms.
Three years ago, Ashlynne launched an Etsy shop and began participating in local pop-up shops and vendor events. The overwhelming response to her handmade items revealed a gap in the market—a lack of permanent retail spaces for artisans like herself. When she walked by the vacant area that would eventually transform into Market 94, the space sparked her inspiration and despite initial uncertainty, she leased the space, transforming it into a permanent retail shop for vendors navigating the challenges of pop-up markets.
Photo credits: Allison Froche – This Lovely Brand
Ashlynne is amazed by the abundance of talent in Cabarrus County. The response from the community has been overwhelming, with over 100 applications from vendors eager to be part of Market 94. Ashlynne’s vision is clear: to curate a diverse selection of products reflecting Cabarrus County’s talent pool. A place where customers are greeted by name, and where they can expect to discover something new with each visit, fostering an ever-changing and vibrant shopping experience. Currently hosting over 20 vendors, Market 94 is expected to reach its capacity with 45 to 50 vendors, maintaining a local, unique, and community-driven atmosphere.
For Ashlynne, Market 94 is a dream realized – “something really special.” Ashlynne humbly credits God for the unfolding success. Market 94 has already become a place for community, hosting various gatherings such as Bible studies and prayer groups, highlighting its potential as a community hub.
Amidst the ongoing construction in downtown Concord, Ashlynne notes the remarkable collaboration among small businesses. Despite the challenges, these businesses are coming together, supporting one another, and finding innovative solutions. Ashlynne expressed her excitement about being a part of this collaborative effort and thanked the community for its support.
Through social media and the upcoming launch of the Market 94 website, Ashlynne aims to further engage the community, showcasing vendor highlights and “today’s finds,” and expressing the artists’ and makers’ appreciation for the local support.
In just a few weeks, Market 94 has become a vibrant hub of creativity and collaboration. Ashlynne’s dedication to supporting local talent has created a space that not only fulfills her dream but also enriches the cultural tapestry of downtown Concord. Her genuine passion for supporting local makers and artists is evident in her approach, and her gratitude towards the community is palpable. Market 94 isn’t just a business venture; it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit of small businesses.
The vendor lineup at Market 94 reflects the diversity and talent within Cabarrus County, offering everything from curated clothing and woodworking to handcrafted hats and sweet treats. Collaborative events, including DIY nights, add an interactive dimension to the Market 94 experience. As a sneak peek into the unique offerings at Market 94, here is a small sample of some of the vendors.
Hwy 54 Boutique: Shelly’s curated selection of clothing and accessories is a must-see.
Family Tradition Woodworking: Charlie and Ashley, a husband-and-wife team, bring custom woodwork with a mix of items for both men and women.
Silvia’s Craft Room: A treasure trove of everything from mugs to clothing and bookmarks.
Grandma’s Famous Fudge: A sweet addition to Market 94, offering delectable fudge creations.
Hayward & Love: Curated stationary, planners, and notebooks for those looking to manage time and wellness.
Tack & Tulle: A handcrafted hat vendor, offering bold and gorgeous one-of-a-kind hats.
Kayla’s Boutique: A curated selection of trendy styles and fashion for everyone.
Your Modern Designs: Textured art pieces and DIY kits promise to add a touch of creativity to any space.
Hawks Ridge Designs: Beautiful dough bowl candles and other goodies.
The Remain Co: Focused on intentional, organic products for homes.
A complete list of vendors can be found HERE.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
