Blog

I heart Market  - Easter Vibes Saturday, 5 April 2025 9am - 2pm

The next I Heart Market takes on full Easter “holiday vibes” at Northlands Primary School, Durban North on Saturday 5 April from 9am to 2pm.

This month’s market experience features loads of cool stuff for Easter celebrations: with kiddies' outfits, table decorations, jewellery, plushie and crochet toys, ceramics, soaps, gifts, sweet and savoury treats, and a range of delicious goodies to complement one’s Easter spread

The market will have an Easter Egg Hunt for the youngsters in the quad at 9.30am and 11.30am, and there will be loads of fun for the kids.

The market takes place indoors in the air-conditioned school hall and outdoors. There is a dedicated kids' play area (and pram park) to keep little ones occupied while parents shop and relax.

Entry is free, and friendly dogs on leashes are welcome. Safe parking with car guards is available within the school grounds and surrounding precincts.

For more information follow on Facebook and Instagram: @iheartmarket.

 -ends

I heart Market - March Magic Saturday, 1 March 2025 9am - 2pm


It’s March Magic at next month’s I Heart Market—Durban’s favourite artisanal retail experience that takes place at Northlands Primary School, Durban North on Saturday, 1 March, from 9am to 2pm.

With its focus on products that are home-made, handmade and made-with-love approach, the market offers a vibrant experience to find local treasures and inspired creativity, while enjoying community connectedness in a relaxed environment.

More than just a market, I Heart Market is a vibrant, community-driven experience as shopping here makes a big impact on the local small business economy, with every trader offering something truly unique for shoppers.

Visitors can discover a carefully curated showcase of local talent and craftsmanship with an inspiring selection of fashion, décor, design, jewelry, and delicious food and refreshments. 

The market takes place both indoors in the air-conditioned school hall and outdoors on the school grounds, ensuring a comfortable shopping experience for all. A dedicated kids' play area and pram park keep little ones entertained while parents shop with ease.



Entry is free, and friendly dogs on leashes are welcome. Safe, monitored parking is available within the school grounds and surrounding precinct.

Stay updated or for more information follow on Facebook and Instagram: @iheartmarket.

-ends




Family Fun & Unique Finds at I heart Market Saturday, 5 October 2024

This month’s I heart Market takes place on Saturday 5 October at Northlands Primary School in Durban North, providing retail therapy that is always, fresh, exciting and surprising.

The market brings together like-minded “makers” and shoppers in a vibrant, safe, and caring space as some of the country’s finest artisans gather monthly to showcase their extraordinary handcrafted goods.

Whether one is in search of handmade treasures, artisanal foods, or eco-friendly items, the I heart Market has a range of carefully curated stalls featuring art, fashion, jewellery, homeware, and kiddies’ products, a perfect place to find those special, one-of-a-kind gifts as the festive season approaches.  The market also offers a selection of upcycled, recycled, and second-hand gems, each with its own unique story, and is particularly famous for its delicious array of food.

“The I heart Market isn’t just about shopping – it’s about creating memories,” says the manager of the market, Tanith Molliere. "By shopping here, one discovers unique products and supports local creatives and entrepreneurs who pour their passion and craftsmanship into each piece. Every purchase helps to grow and strengthen our community of talented artisans.”

Families can enjoy a relaxing day out together, with a dedicated, supervised play area for the little ones, ensuring everyone has a great time. Most of the market is housed in an air-conditioned hall, which makes shopping in the warmer weather much more comfortable, come rain or shine. There is ample parking with car guards.

Moliere welcomes traders to contact her if interested in joining this vibrant community of traders on the website iheartmarket.com/apply

For more information contact info@iheartmkt.com.

-ends

I heart Market Saturday, 7 September 2024 - Durban

Spring has sprung! This month’s  I heart Market at Northlands Primary School in Durban North, takes place on Saturday 7 September and features the Spring Sale, the second and final sale market of the year.

“If you love shopping for bargains and supporting local makers, this is the market for you—especially if you’re looking to get a head start on your Christmas shopping,” says Tanith Molliere, Manager of the Market. “These sought-after sale events are always well-attended because this is one of only two times a year where our vendors offer their amazing crafts and products at especially discounted prices.”

The I heart Market offers a carefully curated selection of exclusive, innovative, handmade, homemade, and locally designed products. Shoppers can expect to find a broad range of items, including unique crafts, art, fashion, jewellery, homeware, children’s goods, and upcycled treasures. Alongside the shopping experience, visitors can indulge in a mouth-watering array of food in the food court, as well as craft gin and beer in the garden.

“We’re always on the lookout for fresh talent to join our community of creators,” adds Tanith. “We encourage ‘makers’ with unique, self-designed, and locally produced items to connect with us. Whether a jeweller, ceramicist, chef, cook, designer or innovator, this could is an ideal opportunity for makers to introduce news creations at our market.” 

Makers and food vendors can apply to Tanith on this link : https://www.iheartmarket.com/apply/

For those with small children, there is a dedicated play area and a pram park, allowing adults to have a stress-free shopping experience. The School Hall has air conditioning, guaranteeing a comfortable visit rain or shine.  There are also designated areas for parking within the school grounds and precinct monitored by security guards.

-ends

I heart Market Saturday 1 June: 9am - 2pm Northlands Primary School, Durban North

Even though Durban barely has a winter, it’s time to stock up on those winter woollies, delicious comfort foods and holiday treats at the stylish artisanal I heart Market, on Saturday, 1 June, 2024, from 9am to 2pm at Northlands Primary School, Durban North.

This popular market, is a creative retail space where passion meets purpose. Here KZN “makers” come together to showcase their craft in a meticulously curated celebration of creativity, offering an array of exclusive, premium goods crafted by passionate individuals across various disciplines. 

“Think once off collections, small batches, and one-of-a-kind treasures you won't find in big malls - delicious artisan food, funky clothing, jewellery, kids clothing, doggie treats or couture.” says the manager of the market, Tanith Molliere.

“We pride ourselves in providing a platform for meaningful connections. Chat directly with the makers, get to know the stories behind their brands, and talk about new ideas and inspirations. So as customers meander through the stalls and invest in one-of-a-kind treasures, they can take pride in knowing that their support fuels the growth of our talented local creative community.”

Moliere and her Market team are passionate about developing and uplifting the local creative scene and entrepreneurs, and invite entrepreneurs who are launching a small, creative business, but are a little nervous to go full scale, to consider trading at the Market. Makers and Food Vendors can apply here: https://www.iheartmarket.com/apply/

There is a dedicated play area for small children, and a pram park, allowing adults to have a stress-free retail experience. The School Hall has air conditioning, guaranteeing a comfortable visit rain or shine.

There are areas for parking within the school grounds and the precinct is monitored by security guards.

For further details email info@iheartmkt.com.

 

-ends

 I heart Market, Durban North, Saturday 4 May: 9am - 2pm

The ever-popular I heart Market, Durban’s iconic monthly market with soul, will take place this month on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 9am to 2pm, allowing visitors an opportunity to indulge in a “shopaganza” a week before Mother’s Day.

The market, which is thriving in its new home at Northlands Primary School, Durban North has a wonderful selection of locally handmade, homemade, up-cycled, recycled, and beautifully designed crafts, art, fashion, jewellery, home-ware, artisanal foods, second-hand gems, and more.

As the May market is a week ahead of Mother's Day, shoppers can explore the myriad beautifully handcrafted goods, just perfect for gifting that special mom in their lives. 

With a focus on supporting local artisans and businesses, I heart Market encourages visitors to make a day of it and discover the unique offerings created by the skilled traders.

The I heart Market has become an important monthly event in the community, providing a vibrant space for artists, designers, and food vendors to showcase their creative abilities and helping to galvanize a warm community spirit. With its commitment to sustainability and promoting local talent, the market continues to attract visitors seeking unique and ethically sourced products.

For those with small children, there is a dedicated play area and a pram park, allowing adults to have a stress-free retail experience. The School Hall has air conditioning, guaranteeing a comfortable visit rain or shine.

There are designated areas for parking within the school grounds and precinct monitored by security guards.

For further details email info@iheartmkt.com.

 



-ends

Embrace Artisanal Craftsmanship and Support Local at I heart Market 2 March

The regular I heart Market, which takes place this month on Saturday 2 March from 9am - 2pm at Northlands Primary School, in Durban North, is an opportunity to dive into the vibrant world of some of Durban’s finest artisans and craft makers.

The Market is renowned for its impeccable ethos of craftsmanship with quality being the focus of the carefully curated selection of handcrafted treasures spanning fashion, décor, jewellery, candles, natural skincare, kids' clothing, toys, deli goods, delicious meals, and much more.

“At I heart Market, we are not just a marketplace; we are a celebration of the local creative spirit,” says Manager of the Market, Tanith Molliere. “Our market pulsates with the heartbeat of Durban's makers, showcasing the dedication and passion of homegrown artisans, creators, and entrepreneurs.”

"We believe in the power of shopping local," says Tanith. "Our ethos revolves around saying YES to unique, locally produced goods. Think of handcrafted, artisanal, organic, repurposed, or upcycled items - each telling a story of creativity and authenticity. We say NO to imported goods and mass production, championing the essence of craftsmanship and individuality. Our customers can feel a sense of pride knowing that they are supporting our local creative community, and helping to uplift and empower small businesses.”

In line with the Market’s commitment to fostering community connections, new traders are invited to join the market and can apply through the website: www.iheartmarket.com/apply/

In addition to the diverse array of artisanal offerings, the Market offers a dedicated kids' play area (with a pram park), helping to create a stress-free outing for parents and children alike, and the venue is the School Hall which is air-conditioned, enabling the market to take place rain or shine.

Parking is available in designated school areas, with security guards to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.  

For more info contact info@iheartmkt.com.

I heart Market – February Sale Market Saturday 3 February: 9am - 2pm Durban

February is the month of love and the I heart Market will celebrate with its traditional bi-annual “sale” market on Saturday 3 February from 9am to 2pm at  Northlands Primary School, in Durban North.

Following two busy and packed festive season markets in its new home at Northlands Primary School, which was well received by customers, February’s I heart Market will offer a range of discounted products.

“We were over the moon with the turn for our first markets at Northlands Primary, with a steady stream of customers, and great sales for our traders who are all small business entrepreneurs,” enthuses Manager of the Market, Tanith Molliere. “Our February market is kind of the “January Sales” market with great offers to help those budgets that may have been stretched during the holidays.”

February’s Market promises a magical shopping experience with wares created with love and care by local artisans and small businesses, reflecting a deep commitment to their artistry and craft.  With Valentine’s Day just around the corner – there will also be a gorgeous array of “romantically-inspired” products available.

As always, the market is filled with handmade treasures ranging from fine leather goods, unusual ceramics, exquisite jewellery and accessories, innovative visual art, home decor, plants, clothing, condiments and pickles, cured meats, a delightful selection of delicious baked goods. Of course, the usual mouth-watering array of food truck eats, catering to every palate including vegan and vegetarian.

There is also a secure play area for children between the ages of 1 and 6, with qualified Teacher’s Assistants in attendance available for the morning for those parents who want to take a break to shop or enjoy some delicious food. There is a fee of R100 for the morning or part thereof. A “pram park” is also available for people to leave their prams whilst shopping to help avoid congestion in the hall.

The market is housed in the school hall and surrounding gardens from 9am to 2pm, and takes place rain or shine as most of the traders are under cover.  Parking is available in designated school areas, with security guards to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. 

For more info contact info@iheartmkt.com.

-ends

I heart Market - Saturday 2 December and Saturday 16 December - Durban North

The ever-popular I heart Market returns to Durban, finding a new home at Northlands Primary School, 20 Gleneagles Drive Durban North, in time for its magical festive season markets on Saturday 2 and 16 December from 9am to 2pm.

Saving the dates ! L-R Getting ready to welcome shoppers to the I heeart Market which has moved to Northlands Primary School in Durban North are from left to right : Jane Frew - Owner: JellyPickle Paintings (calendar is her work), Tanith Molliere - Market Manager:  I heart Market, Caroline Hockly – Marketing Manager:  Northlands Primary School, Nicola Savage - Owner:  Savage Jewellery, Sara Trickett - Owner:   The Thrift Collection and Tracy Galloway - Owner:  Coffee Guys

“Northlands Primary School is very excited to be partnering with the I heart team as their new venue,” says Caroline Hockly, Marketing Manager at the School. “As a community-centred school in the heart of Durban North, we know that this is going to be welcomed by the local community at large. They have been sorely missed on the local calendar as a beautifully curated, top-quality market. We are honoured to be able to provide them with a new home and hope for a long-lasting association.”

Renowned for its excellent quality artisanal products, supporting local small businesses, and offering an exceptional retail experience, the I heart Market boasts an exquisite array of handcrafted goods, including jewellery, accessories, leather items, ceramics, visual art, home decor, plants, clothing, condiments, cured meats, as well as a delectable selection of bakery items from bread and pastries to cookies, and cakes, plus a mouth-wateringly delicious range of food truck eats – catering for all tastes. In keeping with its name, the Market’s curated offerings are lovingly crafted, reflecting a deep commitment to the craft and a strong sense of personal integrity. 

These two December markets will offer a broad range of fine festive fare from Christmas decorations to gift ideas and more, for the whole family. This is an opportunity to shop away from the usual season rush, and at a leisurely pace, where there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Market takes place from 9am to 2pm in the school hall and surrounding gardens. There is plenty of parking available in designated school parking, with security guards in attendance.

The I heart Market is always on the lookout for fresh talent - anyone interested in becoming a vendor can contact the market directly on info@iheartmkt.com.

-ends



I heart Market with Artisan Market for Kids Saturday, 1 July: 08:30 to 2pm Sugar Rush Park , Ballito

Just in time for the July holidays, the  I heart Market introduces an exciting addition to their fare  - it’s I heart Artisan Market for Kids - Homegrown and Handmade on Saturday, 1 July from 08:30 to 14:00 at Sugar Rush Park , Ballito, North Coast

“We are excited to be introducing this new addition to the I heart Market,” enthuses Anna Savage, owner of the Market. “This is a chance to give our children the opportunity to be creative - come up with a product to sell and then make, bake, create or grow their own items and sell them to the public. No store-bought items will be on sales. Here is an opportunity for youngsters to learn the art of making, selling and budgeting.”

“There are some fun and innovative creations for sale in the Kids Market. Of course, there are a lot of sweet treats (cookies, vegan confection, baked goods, pancakes, candy floss) and homemade Lemonade. We have bags, clay creations, 3D toys, various beaded creations, painted rocks, playdough, messy crafts, and watercolour paints. Our usual monthly market fare will be there too. We urge folk to come support these youngsters and enjoy a fun day out.”

This is the holidays, so take advantage of the great kids activities on offer at Sugar Rush Park with its big play area, Jump Park, Putt Putt, Scratch Patch, Ndlondlo Snake Park, adrenaline-driving Tree Tails and the obstacle course in the tree canopy plus a craft area from We Paint Africa. There are plenty of food and refreshment stalls with delicious offerings.

The Market is situated at Sugar Rush, next to Collisheen Estate in Ballito. The I heart Artisan Market for Kids - Homegrown and Handmade will close at 12noon while the main market will continue until it usual 2pm. 

For more information, or to enquire about possible trading contact info@iheartmkt.com 

heart Market Saturday, 6 May Sugar Rush Park , Ballito, North Coast

The start of autumn, means milder weather and balmier days in KZN and great reasons to shop for winter as the I heart Market, warms up for its next market that will take place on Saturday 6 May at Sugar Rush Park in Ballito from 08:30 to 14:00.

The traders have been spending time stocking up for the autumnal and winter months to offer an array of artisanal wares made with care and love for their crafts. Shoppers can once again expect a variety of exceptional crafted goods from leather and décor, ceramics, visual arts, home décor, kiddies and adult clothing including a delicious rage of sauces and condiments, cured meats and cheeses, as well as mouth-watering eat-in options at the market.

Oraaba Gals

Since moving to the popular venue in Ballito in December last year, the I heart Market has enjoyed increasing popularity, and has been a welcome addition to the Sugar Rush Park according to Kim Perry - Operations Manager of the Park. “The Market has certainly added a dynamic and robust shopping experience to the Park, which is geared up to provide a fantastic outing for all. Together with our exciting adventure experiences, kiddies fun offerings and restaurant – the I heart Market really provides a once a month family event to look forward to on the North Coast away from the hustle and bustle of a mall.”

Polka Dot Coco

The Market is situated at Sugar Rush, next to Collisheen Estate in Ballito. There is restaurant at the venue, a kids’ play area, mini-train, a reptile park, Jump Park, the Tree Trails obstacle course, and a Park Run every Saturday morning. 

Savage Jewellery

For more information, or to enquire about possible trading contact info@iheartmkt.com 

 -ends

I heart Market – 15 years on! Saturday, 4 March: 08:30 to 14:00 Ballito

The iconic I heart Market, which recently celebrated its 15th birthday, will take place on Saturday 4 March at Sugar Rush Park in Ballito from 08:30 to 14:00.

The first market was held in 2008 on the pavements outside the St Mary's Church Hall, next to the then Beanbag Bohemia in Morningsde, Durban. 

Owner of the market Anna Savage says, “We started off with 12 stall-holders ranging from ceramics, silver jewellery, clothing and homemade deli goods. But it grew quickly, so moved into the church hall but soon outgrew that. Every time we moved venue, we would get an influx of interested traders and within 3 months we would be filled to the brim with traders. Finally, we found a home on the lawns of Moses Mabhida Stadium, where we traded for a few years, and now have found a permanent home at Sugar Rush in Ballito.”

For Anna, the success of the traders, and the positive feedback from customers, remain a constant highlight. “It’s fabulous seeing people’s businesses grow. Special connections are made between customer and trader at the market, it’s a very personal experience. That's the magic of markets where you are meeting the maker rather than shopping in malls.”

The market offers a wide range of hand-crafted goods including jewellery and accessories, leather goods, artisanal foods and deli goods, ceramics, visual arts, décor, and clothing.

“These kinds of markets are so good for the small business economy," says Anna. “The direct contact to both customers, and other traders and the connections that are made by the traders is what makes this such a robust small business environment. It’s a great feedback loop. Our traders get feedback from the customer, they can see what products are preferred, and they get appreciation either through sales or praise for the work they have done. That counts for a lot.”

According to Anna, creating a curated platform for unique and interesting locally-made products, and not allowing products that are imported or mass manufactured, into the mix, has been the consistent reason for the market’s success. “Customers and traders can be assured of top quality goods being traded here.”

The Market is situated at Sugar Rush, next to Collisheen Estate in Ballito. There is a restaurant at the venue, a kids’ play area, mini-train, a reptile park, Jump Park, the Tree Trails obstacle course, and a Park Run every Saturday morning. 

For more information, or to enquire about possible trading contact info@iheartmkt.com 

-ends


I heart  Market 4 February at Sugar Rush Park , Ballito, North Coast

After a successful move north of Durban in time for last year’s Festive Season the  I heart Market offers a sale market on Saturday 4 February at Sugar Rush Park in Ballito from 08:30 to 14:00. 

The I heart Market is considered an iconic KZN artisanal retail experience that has gained a reputation for its high-quality hand-crafted and designed goods that include delicious foods, jewellery, and accessories, leather goods, ceramics, visual arts, décor, and clothing.

Delicious condiments

"After a really productive festive season, it’s now time for our traditional “January” sale in February – one of two sale markets we host,” says Anna Savage owner and manager of the market. “This is an opportunity for customers to pick up some top quality locally made products, and for our traders to move their end-of-range products in order to make space for fresh new products and designs for our March market.”

Quirky hand crafted decor ideas

The Market is situated at Sugar Rush, next to Collisheen Estate in Ballito. There is a restaurant at the venue, a kids’ play area, a mini-train, a reptile park, Jump Park, the Tree Trails obstacle course, and a Park Run every Saturday morning. 

Gorgeous hand made toys

For more information, or to enquire about possible trading contact info@iheartmkt.com 

-ends

 

I heart Market moves to Sugar Rush Park in Ballito from 3 December 2022

In time for the Festive Season KZN’s much-loved I heart Market makes a new permanent home up the North Coast at popular family entertainment venue - Sugar Rush Park in Ballito - with the season dates confirmed for 3, 10, 17 December 2022 and 7 January 2023 from 08:30 to 14:00.

 

Fun activities available at Sugar Rush Park

Situated next to Collisheen Estate, Sugar Rush Park is a hive of family-friendly activities. It serves as an activity hub and the base for Holla Trails - a network of biking, running or walking trails that go through the sugar cane fields. 

 

Sugar Rush Park, also has a restaurant -Food Fundi, a kids’ play area, mini-train, the Ndlondlo reptile park, The Jump Park, the Tree Trails obstacle course and Park Run every Saturday morning. 

 

Anna Savage, the market’s owner /manager explains the move, "The I heart Market is a local business hub, and our business is based on the success of small business enterprises. We have an obligation to provide the best sales opportunity for our traders and at the same time create a relaxed, fun day out for everyone.”

 

“As a result, we have made a  bold decision to move to Ballito, as we needed to find a venue that could provide us with the security of a long-term lease, and a vibrant well-kept venue that has additional family-friendly activities that our customers can enjoy. We have found the perfect venue at Sugar Rush Park. We realize that this move is a big jump in terms of location and that it may be far for some of our regular customers. But we can guarantee a great day out to those who can travel north, and make  a day of it by taking advantage of the other activities available.”

Makers Phumzile Zama and Nolwazi Zama with their Polka dot Coco store

 

The I heart Market has a reputation for supporting artisanal crafters, artists, and traders, offering fine, handmade goods that include jewellery, accessories, leather goods, ceramics, visual arts, décor, clothing, deli foods bakery goods including breads, pastries, cookies and cakes, and a delicious range of eat in foods. Echoing the market's name, the goods on offer are made with love, dedication to the craft, and personal integrity.

 

"Sugar Rush Park is excited to welcome the I heart Market to our activity hub. Celebrating and supporting small creative local businesses is vital to the local economy and has a special role to play post covid.  We invite our customers and Ballito locals to support this initiative and enjoy the fine products." Nick Jordan, partner at Sugar Rush.

 

According to Anna Savage, the market will continue to trade throughout the year on the first Saturday of every month. There is secure parking and entrance is free.

 

For more information, or to enquire about possible trading contact info@iheartmkt.com 

 

I heart Market - sale edition - 3 September at 08-30am - Moses Mabhida Stadium

I heart Market - sale edition

3 September at 08-30am - Moses Mabhida Stadium

It’s almost Spring and the weather is warming up, the Kites have flown back to KwaZulu-Natal, and it’s a time of rejuvenation and hope. And a great way to celebrate is with a Spring Sale at the much-loved artisanal I heart Market which takes place on Saturday, 3 September from 8:30am to 2:30pm.

 

Artworks by Marie Theron

The I heart traders take stock of their wares, round up their products and slash the prices in preparation for new ideas, and goodies for the Festive Season. The traders have a lot of fun creating their sales, so you can expect bargain bins, sale rails and impressive discounts.

 

“It’s a fun time for both the traders and customers,” enthuses Anna Savage owner and manager of the Market. “We find some thrifty people start their early Christmas shopping at this sale, and the market is abuzz with a Spring vibe.”

 

Expect to find fashionware, accessories, sterling silver jewellery, kids clothes, natural skin care, home decor, dogs accessories, delicious foods and condiments, and much more.

 

"I heart Market is a curated market. We carefully select our vendors to represent the best that Durban has to offer. You won't find any cheap imported goods here. Nor will you find mass-manufactured items like you do in a mall. We look for unique products made by small businesses locally." 

 

Savage Jewellery

A welcome addition to the Market has been the introduction of 25 vendors, who with the support of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs offer a colourful and inspiring range of clothing, jewellery, home decor, accessories and food products.

 

The Market coincides with the return of a small SPAR Women’s 5km Fun Run, which takes place on the Durban Beachfront from Suncoast, so here’s an opportunity to do your run, and enjoy the market afterward.

DUT Jewellery Design Department

 

Entrance to the market is free, and everyone is welcome, including dogs on leads. Parking is at Moses Mabhida in Undercover Parking area. 

 

For more information contact info@iheartmkt.com 

-ends








 

I heart Market - For some Mothers’ Day Gift Shopping on 7 May

I heart Market - For some Mothers’ Day Shopping

7 May from 8:30am - 2pm

Moses Mabhida Stadium Lawns

(Free Entrance & Dogs allowed)

Durban: May’s I heart Market takes place this Saturday (7 May) and comes just in time, the day before Mothers’ Day, offering a  perfect opportunity to get some last-minute gift shopping done.  The market also looks forward to welcoming international and out-of-town visitors here for the Travel Indaba this week.

The I heart Market remains one of Durban’s top-quality artisanal, craft, and entrepreneurial markets with delicious foods, crafts, décor, and fashion- all made with love and care, and with heart-stopping attention to detail.

To treat mums with something truly bespoke for Mothers’ Day, browse around the many inspired stalls for gifts, and take a break to refresh at some of the decadently delightful food stalls, offering something for the whole family.

Need some ideas for Mothers’ Day? Some unusual ideas include Lulubee Skin Health, for example, which is a  Botanique Massage Bar that keeps one’s skin soft and muscles relaxed, as it is infused with Cape Snowbush - a natural muscle relaxant – just what mum needs to unwind.

Lulubee Massage Bar

Then the aromatic Nude Home Fragrances made in Salt Rock with 100% soy wax for an eco-friendly burn has a Cabin Fever candle that is a real winter warmer with notes of cardamom, clove, sweet orange, and vanilla, it's like sipping a cup of chai next to a fireplace. 

Nude home Fragrance

Riverlea Soap's Fizzy Cubes also offers mum a great way to relax. She can pop them in a warm bath and enjoy the sophisticated floral scent from this nourishing bath bomb.  

Riverlea Soaps - Fizzy Cubes

But there is so much more. There are gorgeous designer and affordable silver jewellery, handbags, and purses in leather, and an array of South African inspired fabrics, clothing, accessories, and gorgeous items for the home too. Like Handpicked Baskets that have a contemporary take on the traditional Zulu designs that are made by a team of local women-led by uMam'Majozi in a rural village in KZN, using the local 'Incema' grass and dry palm leaves. These stylish African pieces are a fabulous addition to a lounge, for stacking firewood or a place to store extra winter blankies.

Handpicked Baskets

 The market on the lawns of the Moses Mabhida Stadium is open from 8:30am to 2pm.

 For enquiries about I heart Market please mail info@iheartmkt.com 

I heart Market – Awesome and Artisanal in Autumn

DURBAN: The City’s popular and much-loved artisanal I heart Market is back in all its autumnal awesomeness at Moses Mabhida lawns on Saturday 2 April from 08:30 to 14:00.

As always, the focus of the market is on local entrepreneurs with excellent quality, hand-crafted and bespoke artisanal foods, crafts, décor and fashion. Expect to find delicious foods to take-away or eat on site, homemade pastries and breads, brownies, cupcakes,  and dried fruits and nuts, locally designed clothing, home décor and furnishings, inspired accessories, and jewellery - all made with dedicated care and love.

During the lockdowns and severe pandemic times, I heart Market stopped trading for 20 months. Whilst they pivoted to online markets during that time, it put an immense strain on the local vendors that relied on the income generated from trading.

"Our most important objective is to showcase local creative talent and bring the Durban community together," says director Anna Savage. "It's been heart-warming to see our old traders and loyal customers excited to be back trading at our market."

Chef Rum, a small local business and it barely escaped closing down during lockdown says, "Events such as I heart Market that support local businesses only has helped keep our doors open and for me to continue to employ my one helper. Thank you I heart from the bottom of my heart."

"It's all very well making products and selling them online but without your customer feeling the product and smelling the product, it's a much harder sell. I heart Market has been the perfect place for us to engage with our audience and getting immediate feedback from the customer helps to spur us on and encourage us. The experience is invaluable," says Keren Pocock of Aya Natural Skin who makes natural oils and cream all with the addition of the healing properties of fermented papaya. 

The market takes place on Saturday 2 April from 08:30 to 14:00. Entrance if free and dogs (on leashes) are welcome. There is secure underground parking at the Stadium.  COVID protocols will be observed.

 -ends

I heart market makes welcome return to Moses Mabhida Stadium 27 Nov 2021

I heart market makes a welcome return to Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 November

 

Finally, as the world begins to slowly open up, the much-loved I heart Market makes a welcome return to the lawns outside the Moses Mabhida Stadium to begin trading on Saturday 27 November.

 

“After 20 months of pandemic realness, we are so happy to announce that the I heart Market, which provides trading opportunities for 80 small businesses, is returning for festive season,” says Anna Savage, owner of the market. ”And we are delighted to be back on the lawns of the Stadium, a popular and convenient central spot for all.”

 

“I heart Market is all about supporting small local businesses and so you will never find any imports or mass manufactured products,” enthuses Anna. “We pride ourselves in finding interesting and exciting products produced by our local creative community. So expect to find old favourites – from homemade pastries, local cheeses and olives, locally designed and produced clothing, home furnishings, accessories,  unique silver jewellery, and some exciting new additions, with loads of Festive Season inspirations,  and so much more. All made with love. We are so looking forward to welcoming our loyal traders and customers back.”

 

The festive markets begin on 27 November and take place on 4 and 11 December, and 8 January from 08:30 to 14:00. Entrance if free and dogs (on leashes) are welcome. There is secure underground parking at the Stadium.  COVID protocols will be observed.

 

-ends

I Heart Market Saturday, 6 April : 9am - 2pm

I Heart Market

Saturday, 6 April : 9am - 2pm

Moses Mabhida Stadium lawns

The iconic Durban I Heart Market takes place this month on Saturday, 6 April from 9am to 2pm on the breezy lawns of the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

 

The market, which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, is focused on providing a selection of carefully curated locally made goods, with artisan food, crafted apparel and everything in between for the whole family.  

 

“The market’s philosophy is all about the creative process of “making”,” explains owner and manager of the I Heart Market, Anna Savage. “It has become a place where people who have side projects going on and who want to take it further, or those who simply love to create, have opportunities to test out their products in a safe and honouring environment, where like-minded people come to shop and share.”

 

“We live in a society of relentless consumption, where the possessions we’ve had for a few months tend to outnumber those we’ve had for a few years,” says Anna. “It’s often cheaper to replace something than it is to fix it so we keep on buying inferior items. Products at the I heart Market are carefully designed with attention to detail, resulting in quality products that will live through your most ruthless spring clean or Marie Kondo declutter, as well as the test of time.”

 

Anna says that there are so many stories to tell about the experiences of some of the “I heart makers”. “For example when her house started filling up with pottery, Gwyneth Gosling decided to see if anyone would buy some so she started Beachcomber Pots which now enjoys great support at the market and beyond.”

 

Nikhil Tricam started leatherwork as a hobby and would post pictures of his work on social media. With a positive response and a surge in orders, he took on an assistant. After a short while, he says that his small business, NT Leather Studio was sustaining his assistant’s family and this gave him the drive to keep growing.

 

“There is a lot to be said about shopping local and supporting entrepreneurs,” says Anna. “Shopping like this means no more soulless transactions with dead-eyed sales assistants.  When you’re shopping local, you can meet the person who makes the things you love. You can ask them all the questions and if you have any feedback, no more braving the call centre, they can hear it firsthand. Many traders develop new products or change existing ones based on what you are saying. And that’s pretty cool, we think!”

 

For more information about the I Heart Market go to www.iheartmarket.com

 

-ends