Discovering the Magic of Salad Days Market: A Personal Journey

A few weekends ago, I finally got to experience the much-talked-about Salad Days Market, organised by the incredible twin sisters, Liv & Dais. For those who might not know, the sisters started this market on a whim back in 2019, hosting their very first event in a small library in Crystal Palace. With no prior event experience and simply following a gut feeling, they organised what turned out to be an unexpectedly successful and electric market, bringing hundreds of people through the doors. And since then, they’ve never looked back.

As someone who’s worked in sustainable markets before, I was eager to see what made Salad Days stand out. I visited their recent event at Battersea Power Station, a unique and buzzing location. Across two days, I encountered about 60 small business owners, each with something remarkable to offer, and I wasn’t just an observer – I made a point to engage, bringing along different friends each day to share in the experience.

What struck me was the positive energy at the market. Talking with the vendors, I could tell they were genuinely enjoying the day. For many of them, the event was not only profitable but also deeply fulfilling. Many mentioned how happy they were with their sales, and that energy was contagious, reflected in the smiles and warmth of everyone there. There were only one or two brands that didn’t align with the sustainability ethos, but for the most part, the quality and authenticity were outstanding.

The range of categories and the thoughtful curation were excellent, offering everything from handmade jewellery and sustainable fashion to eco-friendly homeware and unique accessories. While the space was a bit snug, which led to a few crowded spots, I think that only added to the buzz of excitement and curiosity—it pulled people in, creating a lively and immersive shopping experience.

One of the highlights of the Battersea Power Station venue? It was dog-friendly, meaning my dog Luna could enjoy the market, too. She even snagged a few treats, making it a family affair!

Beyond the beautiful goods, I connected with many of the small business owners to talk about potential collaborations with Smart Potato. It was inspiring to meet so many creators passionate about their work, even if some didn’t yet have the resources or budget for larger partnerships. This is where Smart Potato can step in, helping small businesses build connections and gain exposure through events and partnerships.

The story behind Salad Days Market itself is a testament to resilience, passion, and a sense of community. After Liv lost her day job, the twins faced an uncertain future, but inspiration struck when they found a box of vintage theater pamphlets for a show called Salad Days. What started as a small venture in uncertain times has evolved into a thriving community for those who believe in shopping small and supporting local artisans. They’ve now hosted over 60 markets at iconic London landmarks like Selfridges and The Shard and have supported more than 1,000 small businesses.

For anyone looking to experience the beauty of a supportive, vibrant community and discover unique, sustainable brands, I highly recommend visiting a Salad Days Market event. The sisters’ journey from that first library market to London’s top venues is proof of the power of passion and connection. You can check out their upcoming events on their website – who knows, you might just find a new favourite brand or make a meaningful connection!