The Beginning of The Happiest Market
In 2023, I owned a magical-inspired small business and, like many makers, I began attending local markets in early 2024 here in Orlando. Those events were fun and exciting, but I quickly noticed something about my niche: people either loved the parks or wanted absolutely nothing to do with them. That got me thinking. Was there a space for people like me? A place where park lovers could connect with small shops that create items inspired by the stories, characters, and experiences we all hold dear?
I started researching and found all these incredible themed markets in California, but not one here in Florida. That was when the idea first sparked: what if I created a one-time pop-up in Orlando dedicated entirely to the magic we all love? I thought it would just be a single event, but after that first market, the response was overwhelming. We received so many messages and comments from attendees and vendors that I realized this wasn’t just a one-off idea. There was a need for this kind of community here, a place where small shops and fans could come together. And just like that, The Happiest Market was born.
Coming up with the name was honestly one of the hardest parts. I brainstormed everything from Best Day Ever Market to The Magical Market. But every time I thought I had “the one,” I would search it and find another market with a similar name. One day, I stumbled on the idea of calling it The Happiest Market on Earth. When I shared it with my husband, he loved the feel but thought the name was a bit too long. He suggested shortening it to The Happiest Market. The second I heard it, I knew it was perfect. It was simple, sweet, and captured the exact feeling I wanted people to have when they walked in: happiness, the same kind you feel when you step into your favorite park.
At its heart, The Happiest Market exists to create a magical space for small parks-inspired shops to shine and for fans to connect in a fun, community-centered way. It has always been about balance. This market wouldn’t exist without the incredible small shops who bring their talent and creativity to every event. But it also wouldn’t be possible without the attendees, the fans who come month after month to support them. Together, you have helped us build something that feels so much bigger than just a market.
Since our very first event in August 2024, we have hosted 11 markets, showcased over 150 small shops, and connected with so many incredible local businesses. Along the way, we have met vendors and attendees who have become family. What I love most about this journey is the same thing I love about the parks: the feeling of escape. For me, visiting has always been a chance to forget real-world problems, connect with people who share the same passions, and create lasting memories. That is the exact experience I want everyone to feel when they attend The Happiest Market.
I want to take a moment to thank every single person who has been part of this first year. To the talented small shops, thank you for trusting The Happiest Market month after month. To our attendees, thank you for showing up, supporting, and shopping small. You are not just supporting us, you are directly supporting the vendors who pour their hearts into what they do. There is not a day that goes by that I am not grateful for this community. Together, we have created something truly special, and I cannot wait to see where year two takes us. Here’s to more magic, more memories, and more markets filled with joy 💖
- Kristal ♡