Handmade Gifts, Local Love, and the Mayflower Market in Chelmsford
There’s something magical about a market morning — the kind where you pack up handmade goods before the sun’s up, brew an extra-strong coffee, and head out knowing that you’re about to meet people who truly care about what you’ve created.
Even with the clouds overhead, the 2025 Mayflower Market in Chelmsford was filled with energy, laughter, and a whole lot of umbrellas. The event was held in two locations - 24 Central Sq (behind the Old Mill House Coffee Shop along the Brook) and in Bartlett Park, and they brought together over 50 artisans and makers, braving the rain to share beautiful, meaningful gifts — each crafted with a personal touch — with the community.
For ANNIKA PURE, it was a chance to connect face-to-face with our tried and true customers — and with those discovering us for the first time.
The ANNIKA PURE Experience
Our setup was simple but intentional—tabletops filled with our handmade bath and body products, each designed to bring a moment of peace and care into someone’s day. From our aromatic sprays to sugar scrubs, from nourishing body oils to shower steamers, we wanted the table to feel like a small escape from the drizzle.
The most rewarding part? The conversations. We discussed skin types, scent preferences, daily rituals, and even self-care tips with shoppers. We heard horror stories about reactions to harsh chemicals in name-brand products and the heartbreaking search for something that worked for them. We also debuted our Pure Radiance skincare essentials product line including two facial toners, a niacinamide serum, and a facial moisturizer. We saw people smell a new product and smile and watched friends pick out gifts for each other.
Even with the gloomy forecast, the community came through in droves— warm-hearted, curious, and committed to supporting local businesses. There’s something special about people who are committed to buying locally, and those interested in meeting the artisans who lovingly create their products, and those looking for the perfect gift for someone who means the world to them.
It reminded us that handmade gifts aren't just about what's inside the jar or bottle. They're about care, story, and intention.
A Mother's Day Moment
To mark the occasion, we created two special Mother’s Day-inspired gift bags, filled with items perfect for pampering and celebrating the women we love most. The first bag had a shower steamer, body oil, and a hand moisturizer, while the second included a facial scrub, a toner, and a facial moisturizer.
Gifts for mom can be tricky — finding the right idea often feels daunting. We have found that a personal gift that encourages your mom to take care of herself is one of the most powerful ways to say, 'I love you, and thank you.' And as we talked with folks about what their moms meant to them, that love came through. Even though we couldn’t snap pictures of every person who received this special gift, the joy on their faces was unforgettable.
Watching people put care into their gift choices — especially for moms — reminded us how powerful something small and handmade can be. These weren’t just bath products. They were moments of calm being passed from one person to another.
Why We Show Up — and Why It Matters
Markets like these are more than just places to sell — they’re spaces to share. Every artisan, every small business under those identical white tents, showed up with something they had made by hand, hoping it would speak to someone.
And the crowd? They listened. They asked questions. They supported. That’s why we show up — rain or shine.
For us at ANNIKA PURE, it’s about building a community that values intention, nature, and connection. We believe handmade gifts carry a different kind of energy — one that’s rooted in intention and impossible to mass-produce.
Next Stop: Quincy & Seaport Pop-Ups – May 17th & 18th
If you missed us in Chelmsford — or just want more handmade goodies to brighten your routine — we’ll be at the Quincy Marriott on Saturday, May 17th. This event is ticketed and more information can be found here. Right after that, we’ll be in Boston for the pop-up market on the Seaport Sunday, May 18th so be sure to stop by to say hello. Can’t wait to see you!
Thank You, Chelmsford
To every person who stopped by, shared a smile, or took home something special — thank you. We’re so grateful to be part of a community that shows up for small businesses, supports handmade products, and loves a good market no matter the forecast.
We’re already looking forward to the second annual Blooms on the Brook event on June 14th (part of the Markets on the Brook at OMHC series). This market will feature all things plants; made for plants, made of plants, outdoorsy, earth loving.... basically, a plant lover’s dream market. We’ll hope for sunshine, but we’ll be ready either way.
