The annual Kentucky Crafted Market opened its doors on Sunday, showcasing dozens of small businesses while providing them with crucial support to grow and thrive in a challenging economic landscape.
For decades, the Kentucky Crafted Market has been critical for small businesses to succeed.
Richard Kolb, owner of Yardbirds, stated, “It’s pretty significant for me to be able to do this for 34 years.”
The event is an opportunity for beginner companies to capitalize on and help build a customer base. David Larson, owner of Larson Wood Designs, remarked, “It’s a great opportunity to form both business-to-business and retail relationships with the public.”
With tariffs being placed on several imported goods, vendors were asked if this is a cause for concern and if they will be impacted. Ray Bridewell, owner of Bridewell & Bridewell, expressed uncertainty, saying, “I don’t know what’s going to happen. You know the prices have already gone up over the years. A lot of it comes from Mexico and China. We’re going to see what happens. I hope it doesn’t happen where I’m not pricing myself out.”
However, others see positives in the use of tariffs. Larson noted, “The biggest part of this with the tariffs for me is it gives me an opportunity to buy American-made lumber.”
Credit: Alex Barber – LEX18/Lexington
