Our story
At Branching Out Island Artisan Market, we take pride in the unique path we have traveled to bring our community of artisans and craftspeople together. From our humble beginnings at the onset of the pandemic, to the expansive market we are today, our story is one of collaboration, creativity, and a deep appreciation for showcasing the quality goods handcrafted on Prince Edward Island.
In our early days, we envisioned a space where artists could showcase their talents and connect with customers who appreciate the value of handmade creations. As we grew, so too did our commitment to connecting local artisans, promoting sustainable practices, supporting new and beginning artists as they grow their business and fostering a sense of belonging among our customers and visitors.
Every artisan at the market brings their individual story, whether it's through textiles, jewelry, woodwork, painting, seaglass, pottery, technology, or food. You can read their stories in the Meet the Maker profiles that cover our walls and right here on the makers page.
As we continue down this path, we remain focused on nurturing relationships within our community and expanding opportunities for our artisans. The future shines bright, and we are excited to see where our path leads, welcoming new talents and ideas while celebrating our roots.
The road from Peake’s Quay to Cavendish
2020
The beginning
In 2020 craft fairs were cancelled and Our Local Shop was born out of pure necessity. Lloyd and Diana wanted to create a safe space where locals could continue to shop for their holiday handcrafted favorites. But more importantly, they wanted to provide a purpose for crafters to continue making. The first shop ran at Peake's Quay, a holiday craft fair representing over 30 artisans.
2021
Year two: Royalty Crossing Mall
In 2021, the demand for more space led us to the Royalty Crossing Mall where we transformed into Branching Out Island Artisan Market. Doubling our makers, inviting daily pop-ups, adding contests and increasing marketing to spread the word!
Summer 2022
Rolling with the waves
When asked by Northumberland Ferries to set up shop on the Confederation Boat, we dived at the chance! What an adventure and steep learning curve that was! Hoping to get back one day when a brand new Ferry comes to serve our shores.
2022
Year two at the mall, bigger and better
In 2022, there was still ample space at the mall so we came back - amplified! While Craft Fairs began to open again by this time, many preferred our collective and open space in the commercial setting, so we remained willing to serve the masses!
Summer 2023
Outdoors at the Cavendish Boardwalk
The Cavendish Boardwalk opened up applications for vendors to rent the outdoor trolleys on the ground. Robyn (As Cute as a Bug's Ear) and I took on this challenge for 3 gorgeous weeks. It was a great hit and the location is not the permanent home of her new sister company, “Under The Boardwalk”!
Summer 2024
Popping up in Cavendish
Branching Out is popping up in Cavendish in summer 2024! Play zone, Spotlight, Maker profiles, Craft Demos, Author Signings, And more... And we loved it! Located at the “Action Corner”.
2024
Build it, and you can come
With the Mall growing, space was limited, so in 2024 (with the help of many) we built our own kiosk to bring Branching Out back for our holiday friends. It was a welcome return and we are already eager for next year.
Meet Diana
Diana Tutty runs the market. In her own words, from her Meet the Maker profile: “My vision for this shop is to give artisans a chance to shine, while demonstrating to both locals and guests the incredible array of talent that the Island has to offer!”