Inspiring Conversations with Leslie Huffman of Art-n-Soul

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Huffman.

Leslie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, I have lived in Cary for 23 years. I’ve raised two children here and absolutely love the Triangle. With a BS degree in journalism and communications, I have been planning and managing events for over 20 years. First, as a corporate trade show manager, then as a fundraising volunteer, designer of the Cary Scavenger Hunt, and as the Director of the Downtown Cary Food & Flea. I’ve also been working as a marketing coordinator and consultant for many small companies over the years.

During Covid, I decided to start over, when it was safe to do so, with my new company Art-n-Soul NC Makers Market. There certainly was a desire to get out and be with people again and we have seen a steady increase of folks enjoying the market. I hold two markets a month at Mystic Farm & Distillery in Durham, and also hold markets in Preston Village in Cary and a monthly market in Amberly in West Cary.

My passion has always been to help small businesses thrive and I see myself as an advocate for local artisans. There is so much talent in the Triangle and I want others to discover what makes our area so special. Building these events offers all of us a sense of belonging and sharing our art, our vision, our spirit and gives us a place to gather as a community where we can celebrate that together. Building community has always been the goal. My events are full of family fun, great music, and food and I keep my prices low so that my vendors have the opportunity to find success.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I started doing artisan markets 7 years ago, we had five vendors set up in the rain with maybe 20 customers. I slowly built my business by reaching out to artisans from all over who made unique creations and working hard on social media platforms. I can seriously say that all of the growth and connections that I built over the years are amazing. I’ve met some of my closest friends producing these pop-up events.

The only major hardship has been Covid. Like all small businesses, we suffered losing everything in 2020. I was nervous about starting over and wasn’t sure I could do it. But once I started reaching out to my community of artisans I realized that we were all ready to start over together. The Art-n-Soul Market began as a new beginning for many of us. I am grateful for that.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve been a marketing consultant and managing events for over 20 years. Producing the Art-n-Soul Makers Markets comes from a passion to work with and help small businesses find success. The vendors I have worked with over the years will tell you that I always come with advice on how to market their products better.

I’ve held a holiday marketing class, given tips on building a business, taught makers how to better use photography and social media and I always share my thoughts on booth set-up. My feeling has always been, if I can help them be more successful then ultimately the Art-n-Soul will be more successful. It is and always will be about building a supportive community.

What makes you happy?
Of course, my family is my number one. Because family is truly everything. And if you ask them, they will tell you that I am an extrovert, people person who loves to talk to everyone. I love art and music and cocktails! My job brings it all together for me which is so much fun. And my family comes to help and visit me all the time.

Pricing:

• All events is free to attend
• Vendors booths vary in cost from $45 to $60

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.artnsoulnc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artnsoulnc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artnsoulnc

Image Credits:
Leslie Huffman