Courtesy of Lilia Wilkiewicz/M-A Chronicle

M-A Flea Market Buzzes with Unique Finds and Student Creativity

Students rushed excitedly to M-A’s flea market at lunch on Thursday and Friday. As upbeat music played on the Green and in the G-Wing, vendors set up stands offering baked goods, handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and more.

To participate, sellers applied and attended a vendor meeting hosted by Leadership. All profits from the stands went directly to the vendors.

Thursday’s market, which was held on the Green, exclusively featured items like jewelry and vintage clothing. However, Friday’s market in the G-Wing also had food, which attracted a larger crowd. 

“I love how everyone here is selling their own thing and coming together to create a fun community for other students,” senior and student vendor Julissa Madrigal said.

A hand-crafted jewelry and accessory table.

Inspired by her older brother’s passion for baking macarons, Madrigal decided to take on baking and sold cookies and other delights. Madrigal’s brownies sold out within the first ten minutes.

Senior Addison Andara and her friends decided to sell vintage clothing to clean out their closets before leaving for college next year.

Andara (right) and friends provide second-hand clothing for sale.

Aspiring business owners used the opportunity to sell their creations and advertise. Sophomore Balthazar Sauquet showcased his brand, balthyZart, which features clothing items decorated with his original designs. 

“Chase your dreams and work hard, and the sales will reflect it,” Sauquet said.

The Women in Literature club hosted a successful bake sale with proceeds going to the Malala Fund, a nonprofit organization that supports women’s education and literacy. The club focuses on empowering women and reads books by female authors. 

The Women in Literature club’s stand. 

“Just walking around and seeing everything everyone made is fun,” freshman Isadora Chicural said. 

An assortment of small plants for sale.

Freshman Laura Wang sold colorful succulents. Wang had previously only sold her plants online, and wanted to branch out and sell her products in-person. Dozens of students lined up to her booth and went home that afternoon with a new plant. 

“I really enjoy supporting my classmates because it brings happiness to both me and them, so it’s a win-win,” said senior Sabina Ortiz, who bought a homemade phone charm and cupcake.

Lilia is a sophomore in her first year of journalism. In addition to running the Chronicle's X, she enjoys writing about local artsy events inside and outside of school as well as exploring various cuisines for Bear Bites.