Get Carried Away Southern Market: A Charleston Vendor Fair for Handmade Goods and Local Makers
What Get Carried Away Southern Market Is
Get Carried Away Southern Market is a vendor fair held in Charleston where independent makers, artisans, and small businesses sell handmade goods, vintage finds, and locally produced items. The market brings together dozens of vendors in one location, typically for a single day or weekend event. You'll find everything from jewelry and ceramics to clothing, home décor, bath products, and art—most made by the people selling it.
The market operates seasonally and rotates locations within Charleston. It's organized by local promoters who curate the vendor list to focus on quality handmade and small-batch work rather than mass-produced resale. The event draws both locals and visitors looking to shop directly from makers and support Charleston's creative community.
Key Takeaways
- Get Carried Away Southern Market features independent artisans and makers selling handmade goods, vintage items, and locally produced products all in one location.
- The market runs seasonally and changes venues within Charleston, so you'll want to check the current date and location before you go.
- Most vendors are the makers themselves, so you can ask questions about materials, techniques, and the story behind what you're buying.
- The market typically operates during daytime hours on weekends, and admission is usually free or low-cost.
When and Where the Market Happens
Get Carried Away Southern Market does not run year-round. It typically takes place in spring and fall, though the exact dates shift from year to year. The venue also changes—past markets have been held in different neighborhoods and event spaces across Charleston, so the location is not fixed.
To find the current market date and address, search online for "Get Carried Away Southern Market" along with the current season, or check Charleston event listings and social media pages dedicated to local markets. Many vendors post about the upcoming market on their own Instagram accounts and websites, which is another way to stay informed.
What You'll Find at the Market
Vendors at Get Carried Away typically focus on handmade and artisan goods rather than factory-produced items. Common categories include jewelry (beaded, metalwork, resin), ceramics and pottery, paintings and prints, handmade clothing and accessories, natural skincare and bath products, home décor, and vintage or upcycled pieces. The exact mix changes with each market since the vendor roster rotates.
Because most vendors are makers rather than resellers, you can often watch demonstrations, ask about materials and methods, and commission custom work. Many vendors also offer items at different price points, so you can find pieces ranging from small affordable gifts to larger investment pieces.
How to Shop and Support Local Makers
Arrive early if you want the best selection, especially for popular vendors or limited-edition items. Bring cash and cards—most vendors accept both, though some smaller makers may prefer cash. Take time to talk with the people behind the tables; they can explain their process, answer questions about care and materials, and often share the story of how they started their business.
Many vendors offer custom orders or can make pieces to your specifications if you ask. If you see something you love but want a different color or size, ask—makers often work that way. You can also ask for contact information if you want to follow their work or purchase between markets.
Parking and Getting There
Parking depends on the venue, which changes seasonally. When you confirm the market location, check whether the venue has on-site parking, nearby street parking, or if you should plan to use a parking garage. Charleston's downtown areas can be crowded on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day often means easier parking.
If you're using public transportation, CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) serves most neighborhoods where the market has been held. Check the CARTA website or app for routes to the specific venue once the location is announced.
What to Bring and How Long to Stay
Bring a reusable bag or two—vendors will have bags, but bringing your own saves money and is better for the environment. Wear comfortable shoes since you'll be walking and standing. Bring cash in small bills if possible, as some vendors may not have change for large amounts.
Plan to spend one to three hours depending on how many vendors you want to visit and whether you like to browse slowly or move quickly. The market is typically not overwhelming in size, so you can see most vendors in an afternoon without feeling rushed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets or pay admission?
Most Get Carried Away Southern Markets are free to enter. Some venues may charge a small admission fee, but this is not typical. Check the event details when the market date is announced to confirm.
Can I bring my kids to the market?
Yes, the market is family-friendly. It's a daytime event in a public space, and many families bring children. The market is not usually crowded or overwhelming for kids, though it depends on the specific venue and time of day.
What if I want to become a vendor?
Vendor spots are typically filled through an application process run by the market organizers. Follow the market's social media or website for announcements about vendor registration, which usually opens a few months before each market. Requirements typically include that you make or source the goods you sell.
Can I order from vendors if I can't make it to the market?
Many vendors sell online or take custom orders. Ask for their website or social media handle at the market, or search for them online. Some vendors only sell at markets, so it's worth asking directly about other ways to purchase.
Is the market indoors or outdoors?
This depends on the venue, which changes each season. Check the event details when the location is announced. If it's outdoors, plan accordingly for weather—bring sunscreen or an umbrella depending on the season.