- A simply local festive market
Featuring over 20 vendors from a variety of local brands and entrepreneurs, Harpo’s Bazaar took place on 4 December at Bayleaf Garden, Colombo 7.
We stopped by at the premises to check out the marketplace and found it buzzing with conversation and excitement. A range of vendors, from clothing to dips and spices to arts and crafts were present – each animatedly explaining their products to potential customers.
There was quite an impressive turnout and we found ourselves lost in the Christmas cheer and got some of our Christmas shopping done earlier than expected; they truly did have something for everyone.
We had a small chat with Harpo’s Hotels, Cafes, and Restaurants Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Harpo Gooneratne on his thoughts about the marketplace. He shared that it was a very successful bazaar and all the selected vendors were very happy with the outcome. “It is a very unique marketplace and we hope to have another next year as well,” he added.
Let’s take a look at what some of the vendors have to offer.
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Candle Isle
This stall was absolutely impossible to resist because of the tantalising aromas that wafted around the table. As the same says, Candle Isle sells a variety of handmade candles, and the products featured at the stall were mostly Christmas themed. They had options of spiced cinnamon and vanilla, gingerbread cookie, Christmas cabin, and roasted pine cone as their Christmas range, as well as maple wood coffee house, cedar musk, and lavender as a few anytime options.
They had the viral Venus candle, which is essentially a candle sculpted in the shape of a woman, as well as the bubble candle, and both were available in all the fragrances listed.
Upon sniffing the unlit candle itself, we were able to grasp what it would be like when lit. These candles would make the perfect gift for your loved ones or even yourself – a great way to get into the Christmas spirit, with your home smelling like the epitome of Christmas.
They even told us that they are to receive another range of candles this week, so keep an eye on their Instagram for more details.
IG: @candleisle_lk
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O.M.Gourmet
Yet another irresistible stall – Oh. My. Gourmet specialises in platters and charcuterie boards. They were selling a range of their dips at the bazaar and had a small platter of crackers, cheese, and dips for anyone walking by to sample, and take our work for it, it’s absolutely impossible to resist purchasing one after you’ve had a bite.
They had a feta dip, caramelised onion hummus, smoked salmon dip, and our personal favourite – the bacon jam. We had a sample of the smoked salmon on a cracker, and it’s super creamy and an absolute flavour bomb in your mouth. The bacon jam, which we had with cheese and crackers, was a hit. As a customer next to us, making his purchase, put it: “Who doesn’t love bacon!”
The jam is a crumbly mix of mini bacon pieces, mixed with a jam that has a hint of sweetness. Obviously, we had to impulse-purchase this jam, and we’ve had it with a variety of food…and it never disappointed us.
IG: @oh.my.gourmet
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Riot Clothing
A clothing brand designed for the rebellious and run by a local entrepreneur. This stall was absolutely perfect for a good sale; they had a range of tops, dresses, jumpsuits, and shorts – all on sale! We managed to bag ourselves a good haul that barely amounted to any money. They even had a lookbook handy, so customers had an idea of what the clothes would look like when worn.
If you’re on the lookout for a Christmas sale that is actually a sale and not just a mere 20%, then this is the place to check out.
IG: @riotclothingofficial
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Crafts and Concepts
This crafts store is as timeless, functional, and versatile, as they promote it to be. They aim to refine the Lankan lifestyle while taking a progressive approach of interjecting personality and interest into any space.
They had a range of platter boards available – great for your upcoming Christmas dinner. What we found most interesting was the Tibetan singing bowl they were selling; it’s especially a type of bell that vibrates and produces a deep, rich tone when played. A great gift for anyone who’s spiritual and loves these intricate, handmade ornaments. We were told it helps one become more calm and centred.
IG: @craftsandconcepts
