The area’s youngest business owners will come together at the 4th Annual Young Entrepreneur Market on Saturday, Feb 25th from 10-3 at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. What started as a fun way to encourage young people to learn how to sell their creations has grown into a popular business/educational event for the community, capped at 20 participants ranging in ages from 5-16 years old.

“It’s amazing to watch the kids arrive. At first, they are nervous and unsure of themselves,” shares Kim Livengood, of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. “But by the end of the event, they are selling professionals.” Items sold in the market include handmade jewelry, clothing, soaps, candles, artwork, and even eggs.

Eleven-year old tie-dye artist Jasper will be at the market representing her business, Twizted Tie Dye. Jasper first started working with tie-dye art when she was only 8 years old. She has since expanded to creating colorful dyed accessories, beaded jewelry and art on canvases as well. Being an entrepreneur at such a young age, Jasper wasn’t even able to spell the name of her own business initially. “The first time I wrote it out on a sign I was making, I wrote "TwiZted" with a "z". We decided to go with it though, as it made it more unique (and easier to have that name available on Instagram too!)” she shares. Jasper has participated in the Young Entrepreneur Market every year. Why? “I really like making money!” she says. “I also like how the Young Entrepreneur Market at the Bazaar lets kids create whatever they want to sell, and be completely in charge of their own space. I love seeing other friends there, too, and checking out all of the other artwork and things for sale.” You can find Jasper’s art at local pop-up markets and through her Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/twiztedtiedye/. She also takes custom orders through email: twiztedtiedye@gmail.com.

Maximus Yarkin will also be at this year's market selling fresh organic eggs from chickens he raises at Raptor Beach Farm. In 2021 his family bought 2.5 acres in Sarasota to start raising chickens, however, he has been learning about and caring for chickens for years. His eggs are sold at Hamlet’s as part of their menu so he is very happy to participate in the market. Ten-year old Maximus is a homeschooled 4th grader who likes to work with computers and gaming. He is a first-time participant in the market and is excited to be there. “We just hatched some baby chicks and will be bringing them to the market so come meet the babies!” he says.

Live music will be playing all day at the market, courtesy of the students of Music Compound and food will be available from Hamlet’s Eatery.

“From bakers to artists, you will be amazed at the talent and skills these young people offer,” shares Livengood. “It’s going to be a great event!”

For more information visit www.Bazaaronapricotandlime.com.