Artisan Crafts Thrive at Red Hive Market in Batavia

Red Hive Market, a vibrant artisan shop located in historic downtown Batavia, has become a hub for unique crafts and decor. Co-owned by Bridget Johnson and her husband, Tom Freeman, the market showcases the work of over 30 talented artisans. Johnson describes her vision: “I really wanted it to be a home for all these artistic individuals.”

The market features a diverse collective of creators, including a retired battalion chief who crafts heirloom woodworking pieces and a fiber artist who specializes in whimsical felted gourds. “These gourds have the most incredible expressions and are named after people the artist knows, complete with bios,” Johnson notes.

Many artisans at Red Hive Market focus on sustainability by upcycling discarded materials. A new artisan joining in October will transform old leather belts and purses into stylish leather jewelry cuffs. Additionally, the shop showcases the work of Not Your Grandma’s Aprons, where a former school secretary repurposes vintage fabrics and her husband’s old shirts and ties into fashionable purses.

Collaboration among artisans is a hallmark of Red Hive Market. For instance, some purses from Not Your Grandma’s Aprons feature buttons crafted by Pots on Fox, which uses a pottery wheel to create unique designs. “It’s such a wonderful way to showcase the work of two artisans in one piece,” Johnson explains.

The inventory at Red Hive Market is ever-changing, offering customers a new experience with each visit. Johnson advises, “If you see something that captures your heart, buy it now because the next time you come in, it might not be there.” The anticipation of discovering unique items keeps customers returning.

Johnson is committed to curating heirloom-quality pieces that excite shoppers. “I’m always trying to find artisans who can bring in unique and different products to keep our customers excited to come in and wander around seeing what’s new at Red Hive Market. You never know what you’re going to find,” she adds.

Following a significant expansion in 2022, Red Hive Market doubled its size to 3,000 square feet. This increase has allowed for a broader selection of handcrafted treasures. Alongside shopping, the market also hosts events and workshops that encourage hands-on creativity. Customers can participate in activities such as making their own soaps, pumpkin painting, and candle pouring.

To stay informed about the latest arrivals and upcoming classes, customers can follow Red Hive Market on Facebook. The shop is located at 6 W. Wilson St. in Batavia and operates daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with extended hours during the holiday season.

The holiday festivities will commence on November 1 with a special event called the Cookies and Cocoa Celebration. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus while getting a head start on their holiday shopping. With its commitment to supporting local artisans and creating a vibrant community space, Red Hive Market continues to thrive as a destination for unique, handcrafted goods.