WELCOME
WE’RE AN INDEPENDENT, WOMAN-OF-COLOR RUN MARKET
WHAT
In 2011, after losing her corporate job, Tanvi Asher decided she would work for herself and took the plunge with Shop Peppermint (2012) & then again in 2018 with Salty Boutique.
Tanvi continued to open up her stores to many pop ups but felt like she could make this a more permanent & diverse fixture by opening up the Culver Road Armory to more artisans. With the help of the Rainaldi Real Estate Group (owners of the Culver Rd Armory), THEMATA was born in 2016.
THEMATA Pop-Ups are creative, modern marketplaces that help independent designers, artists & emerging brands sell their products while encouraging people to shop local and support their community. It’s the perfect opportunity for shoppers to find unique and undiscovered gifts and support independent local artists and brands.
WHEN
Our coveted pop-up markets only happen two times per year. Seasonal, they take place indoors every November and December. During the summer they take place outside in the Eastern side parking area from May through August.
WHO
THEMATA was created by entrepreneur, industrial designer and former RIT ID grad Tanvi Asher. Hailed one of the leading forces behind the ‘shop small’ and reshaping Rochester movement, Tanvi was awarded the 2020 ATHENA young professional award. “I want to bring modern, independent design to the masses. My goals are to help designers and small businesses grow, to inject money into the local economy, and to teach shoppers the value of conscious consumerism."
WHY
Because shopping small and buying local doesn’t just feel great, it does a lot of good! We believe in the power of people - both the amazing small business owners that enrich our lives with their goods and employ people all over, and our community of supporters who grow the US economy when they choose to shop local at our markets. Our markets help build community, help to inspire all generations to follow their creative dreams, allow us to interact and connect in real-life, and so much more!