New marketplace opens in Woodland Park, promoting local vendors

Andrea Connolly is opening a new space in Woodland Park called Hunt & Homestead Marketplace and Makerspace. This location will open on April 1 at 720 U.S. 24 Suite B. Connolly wanted to create a place that would help not just her goat milk business, but also support other small business owners and the local community. The marketplace will feature over 25 local vendors, offering artisan crafts, antique gifts, and food products. Alongside the retail area, there will be a workshop space for people to create their own products. Skills like candle pouring, knife sharpening, and painting can be learned there. Membership options for the Makerspace start at $50 a month for access to classes. There are also tiers for more hours of workshop access. Connolly's goal is to promote healthy living and self-sufficiency through this community-focused initiative. The shop will include a mix of experienced business owners and new entrepreneurs. Connolly is excited about the unique talents of the vendors and aims to foster creativity and community spirit. She plans to hold events to enhance this sense of community. The marketplace is set to operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Connolly hopes to expand the vendor count to 50 by the end of May, with a grand opening event planned for May 2-4.