News Summary
The Norms Vintage Market at UNC Charlotte saw a record attendance with over 30 vendors participating in the event. Established by students, the market has grown significantly since its inception, promoting local entrepreneurship and community engagement. The vibrant atmosphere, featuring live music and food trucks, has encouraged participation from students and alumni, helping to foster a sense of community while highlighting eco-friendly practices in fashion. As anticipation builds for the next market, the event remains a crucial part of campus life.
Charlotte
The Norms Vintage Market at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte attracted a record turnout of over 30 vendors and crowds last Thursday, September 5, 2025. The event, held at the Mebane/CHHS Plaza across from the Popp Martin Student Union, showcased a diverse array of items ranging from sports clothing to handmade rugs.
Founded in the fall of 2023 by student organizers Jasmin Walia and Trey Orantes, the market has seen impressive growth since its inaugural edition, which featured 20 vendors. With each semester’s market, the event has increasingly drawn more participants and customers, creating a vibrant atmosphere for both vendors and guests. The presence of live music and food trucks contributed to the event’s lively ambiance, enhancing the experience for attendees.
Many of the vendors were local to Charlotte, with a significant number being current students or alumni from UNC Charlotte. This connection to the community promotes not only local businesses but also a sense of camaraderie among the university’s population. Vendor Joseph Leviev, a senior studying computer science, highlighted the market’s role in fostering community among students, while vendor Sesin Kahsay noted the thriving culture of thrifting in North Carolina and the encouraging attendance at campus events.
Vendor Emma Pimentel commended the organization of the market, describing it as one of the best she had attended. She emphasized the importance of self-expression through clothing and urged attendees to wear what makes them feel comfortable. Additionally, Bethany Smith of Thrift Smith Vintage spoke on the significance of sustainability in purchasing second-hand apparel, aligning with the market’s ethos of supporting eco-friendly practices.
Aside from clothing, the market featured a variety of products, including press-on nails sold by vendor Sophia Park, whose pricing is tailored with students in mind. Student exhibitor Josh Brodie acknowledged the valuable community support he received during his showcases, reinforcing the market’s role as a platform for local entrepreneurs to gain recognition and experience.
The next Norms Vintage Market has yet to be scheduled but is anticipated to occur in the Spring of 2025, following the success of the recent event. With its mission of promoting local small businesses and encouraging community engagement, Norms Vintage Market stands as a significant highlight in UNC Charlotte’s activities, providing a unique opportunity for students and vendors alike.
The flourishing attendance and increasing vendor participation illustrate the market’s positive impact on the local community, underlining the importance of supporting homegrown businesses. As students and community members alike gather to celebrate creativity and commerce, Norms Vintage Market continues to enhance the campus’s vibrant culture.
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Additional Resources
- Niner Times: Norms Vintage Market
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Axios: Things to Do in Charlotte
- Google Search: UNC Charlotte
- Charlotte Observer: What’s in Store
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina
- Niner Times: Charlotte Events
- Google News: Charlotte Events
Author: HERE Charlotte
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