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The annual Horton’s French Market is highly anticipated not only by the people of Tipton, but also by attendees who come from surrounding areas, including out of state. What began as an idea to bring people downtown during a slow season has grown larger each year. During the two days it will be held this year, on July 9 and 10, the French Market will host its largest number of vendors ever.
“The concept for starting it 13 years ago was really simple,” says Karen Horton of Horton’s Home and Garden. “We wanted to create an event that would bring business to downtown Tipton.”
For a few years, Horton’s Home and Garden was the only business that set up an outdoor marketplace. Gradually more vendors were added to the open-air, French-inspired courtyard. Once the event started growing, other downtown Tipton establishments joined in by having their own promotions such as setting up tables outside their storefronts.
The French Market is a juried event, which means vendors have to apply to participate. This ensures a varied mix of goods, with everything in the parking lot complementing what is offered inside the store. Fresh flowers and topiaries will be available, as well as one-of-a-kind found items and artisan jewelry, artwork and clothing.
“There will be food as well,” Horton says. “Food trucks will be out in the parking lot and people can sit and eat on the decorated front porch.”
Inside the store patrons can browse through fresh new displays and products. Besides their expansive garden center, Horton’s also carries fun clothing including dresses, floral covers and farmhouse tops, suitable for summer events such as showers, concerts or date nights. Home goods will be arranged in the inviting vignettes the store has become known for.
“The French Market is a wonderful time to meet up with friends and slow down for a while,” Horton says. “One group of ladies who come from out of state always are interested in the fresh flower bouquets. People enjoy shopping in the open-air market and cooling off by sipping lavender lemonade. I’m thankful we started our event and that we have such a large following.”
Horton’s French Market will be held on Friday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, July 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Interested vendors can email hortonsoftipton@gmail.com to submit photos of their products and booth.
Horton’s Home and Garden is located at 112 South Main Street in Tipton. For more info, call 765-675-2013 or visit HortonHomeandGarden.com.
