Hotel Palms held its Palms Market July 23, welcoming local vendors and community members to enjoy the hotel’s new lounge and support small businesses.
The market day marked the third to be held in the hotel’s courtyard and the first since renovations began at the hotel, formerly known as Palms Retro. Local musician Mere Woodard serenaded guests with live music as they perused the offerings of beachside boutiques Sailors Siren, Soulshine and Sunrise Surf Shop.
“We were so excited to be doing this for a third time,” said Hotel Palms Co-owner Stevan Schwartzenberger. “We’re just so thankful for the support of the community and the vendors for helping us bring it all together again. We look forward to doing this again when the hotel is completely done with renovations.”
Also among the vendors was Julianne Gamel, the artist and owner of Couture Jems, who said the market gave her a chance to reach out to new people.
“I love it, being able to (sell) here, to see and support other local artists’ businesses is just an excellent opportunity,” Gamel said. “I work out of a home studio, I don’t have a brick-and-mortar location. I normally wholesale to boutiques and do some business online, but the Market Palms gives me the chance to show everyone what I’ve got. It’s a great local experience.”
Matthew Sloan of Atlantic Beach’s Happy Cup was similarly excited about the experience as he joined the market for the first time.
“It’s great to be a part of something where beach locals and businesses can enjoy a partnership, help the community together,” he said. “We’ve developed a relationship with the hotel where we’ll be able to provide breakfast items for the guests. It’s always a rewarding experience to work with other local businesses.”
According to Schwartzenberger, the Hotel Palms expects to have another market event in December once renovations are complete. For now, she’s grateful for the support and excitement surrounding the boutique hotel.
“It’s a mutually beneficial thing for locals and businesses,” she said. “We’re happy to be able to be a part of the beaches community in this way.”
