On October 10, 2026, the San Tan Farmers Market was filled with creativity, excitement, and entrepreneurial spirit as local kids showcased their talents and businesses at a special Kids’ Market event.
Among the young entrepreneurs was my daughter, who set up a booth offering face painting and her very own creation, “Unhealthy Trail Mix!” Her experience started at home coming up with the ideas for what to sell. Thinking about "what kids would want" and "supply and demand". She even created her own business name, logo and ordered her stickers from the local Staples store. With free range of Mom's craft supplies, she tailored her packaging and signage for the fall and halloween season. She created the trifold sign for her facepainting and put much thought into creating unique images for people to choose from.
She did very well marketing and selling her very own creation, “Unhealthy Trail Mix!”. She did not shy away from asking passers by "Are you hungry?....I have some Unhealthy Trail Mix!" Her colorful snack mix featured a fun combination of popcorn, pretzels, cookies, candy corn, and other sweet and salty favorites. She loved painting faces. Young and Old. Often times she gently guided potential customers in choosing an image if they were undecided.
But this little business was about much more than colorful faces, tasty treats and turning a profit. She took ownership of the entire process. From thinking creatively about her logo, how to market, price and display her items and services, to having real conversations with customers and fellow entrepreneurs. It was exciting to watch her bring her idea to life and build the life skills she will need in the future!
Young Entrepreneurs Making Big Things Happen!
The market featured several talented kids with businesses of their own. At the neighboring booth, a 10-year-old boy proudly shared a book he had written and published with the help of is family. Other young vendors displayed handmade jewelry in a variety of styles, while some showcased their baking skills by selling homemade goodies. Another creative entrepreneur designed and made his very own dinosaur coloring books!
Each booth reflected the imagination, hard work, and unique interests of its young creator.
Events like the Kids’ Market offer children a wonderful opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, build confidence, practice communication skills, and discover what it takes to turn an idea into a business. From creating products and preparing packaging to interacting with customers and managing money, these young vendors gained experiences that go far beyond the marketplace.
Does your child want to give a Kid's Market a Try?
Click Here to Check out Kids Markets in the Macaroni Kid East Mesa Business Directory
