The Village at PCM, a marketplace featuring goods from approximately 25 Black local entrepreneurs, is set to open at Ponce City Market (PCM) in late-fall 2020. The shop — founded by Atlantan Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon (pictured above) — will offer a variety of products, including apparel, home goods, body products, and more. Dr. Hallmon is the social entrepreneur, curator, speaker, educator, and creator of The Village Market.
Dr. Hallmon moved to Atlanta in 2011 from Mississippi, and in attending several annual festivals across town, she “noticed the lack of diversity in vendors and was inspired to launch The Village Market to empower Black entrepreneurs through education, purpose-driven events, and community engagement,” according to a press release Monday.
“Our mission is front and center,” Dr. Hallmon said in the release. “The Village at PCM is all about positioning Black businesses for growth and strengthening the local community of small businesses, especially during these times. To date, we’ve been able to circulate $4.5 million in the community through The Village Market.”
The Village Market connects Black-owned businesses to consumers, resources, and investors, and reaches small businesses in 21 states and four countries, with an official partnership with The Bahamas. To date, The Village has showcased and trained hundreds of vetted Black-owned businesses who specialize in conscious apparel/merchandise, all-natural products, and foods. Some businesses have grown from six-foot vendor tables to now brick-and-mortar locations.
“With the mission to help small businesses go from concept to growth, The Village at PCM hopes spotlighting Black makers will lead to further success beyond their Ponce City Market shop, with placements in other local stores and businesses opening their own brick and mortar locations,” according to the release.
Located on the second floor of the Central Food Hall next to Root Baking Co., the store at the community hub will feature a modern, minimalist look and showcase individual brand identities. Makers will include Hairbrella, J. Dow Fitness, Abeille Creations, Just Add Honey Tea Company, The Muted Home, World of Unoia, Savoir Faire, Miso Living, and more.
