Parkmore’s Field Market celebrates women entrepreneurs ahead of Women’s Day
From a career reinvented through a wildlife book and marmalade to handmade chocolate bombs that melt into hot drinks, the August Field Market was filled with products and stories worth discovering.
With Women’s Day just two days away, the August edition of the Field Market offered visitors the perfect outing, with an opportunity to find something special for the women they love, while supporting local traders.
Held on August 8, the market was buzzing with shoppers looking for something a little different from the usual store-bought gift. From handmade sweet treats to beautifully crafted local products, the stalls offered plenty of inspiration for those wanting to surprise a mother, wife, sister, friend, or colleague.
The market also provided a fitting platform to celebrate women who have turned their creativity, skills, and determination into thriving small businesses.
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Among them was Shantal Jayanathan, founder of SJ’s Caterers, selling chocolate bombs. “It’s a bowl of chocolate filled with marshmallows and different fillings. So, when you place the bomb in a mug and you pour in hot milk or coffee, it melts into an absolute decadent drink with your marshmallows floating on top.”
When asked what makes them different from the ones you can find in store, Jayanathan said: “You don’t really find them in stores. They’re very artisan. Every item is handmade. That’s what makes them different.”
Another vendor was Meggan Schaefer, an author and businesswoman whose journey is a powerful example of reinventing yourself when life takes an unexpected turn.
Schaefer said she previously worked in the eventing industry, specialising in function decor. She said when things started going downhill during Covid her career became obsolete. “I self-published, Collective Nouns for Africa, a Southern African wildlife book featuring animals, birds, mammals, and the collective nouns.
“Then I started making marmalade. My signature product made from the rare Rex Union orange. My mother taught me how to make it, so I would get some extra money. This year, I added the handmade toffee to my products and I’m hoping it will take off.”
Also read: Brescia House School learners turn business ideas into reality at August Rush Market Day
Market organiser Handri Coolen expressed gratitude to the community for their support. “This is what the market is all about, to get people outdoors in the park and just come and enjoy being outdoors. We are thankful for the support, because without the support of the people, we wouldn’t be able to do this.
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: The vibrant atmosphere of the August Field Market held just two days before Women’s Day. Video: Xoliswa Zakwe #Sandton #market #Womensday ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
“Thank you for supporting our local traders, because we try and focus on local, and most of the traders make or design the products themselves.”
With only four editions of the market left in 2026, Coolen said the market is currently at full capacity for the remainder of the year, but that interested traders can submit an expression of interest through the market’s website, www.fieldmarket.co.za. “We follow a very specific approach. It’s expression of interest. It’s not an application. So, you express your interest, and then we will have a look at it and see if we can invite you to trade at the market.
“Currently, we are at full capacity and going into the remainder of the year as well, but express your interest and you will be on our database. In the future, we might reach out to you, if there’s an opportunity available at the market.”
The next market will be on September 12.
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