Mark your calendars and get your tickets for the next swap meet!
SwapMeet RVA is an all-inclusive market, whether you want to get out of the house on Sunday, or just to shop till you drop. This community space was created by the small business owners Cameron and Deja Hadnot to support other local vendors in an environment that brings people from all backgrounds together.
As you walk through Main Street Station’s old stone doors you will be greeted by food trucks and vendors as far as the eye can see. From homemade danishes, to silk bonnets, to Hello Kitty backpacks and original paintings, there’s a little something for everyone, no matter your weird niche.
I arrived in the early afternoon, but I could have stayed for hours. Every battered pair of blue jeans and dainty lingerie top had a story to tell.
SwapMeet RVA’s success is upheld by the strong arms and precise hands of over 70 local vendors. One of them, David Kirk, wakes up before the sun rises to get ready and mingles amongst the other shop owners as the crowds begin pouring in.
David’s shop, Calm Jungle, really caught my eye, selling streetwear bearing eccentric screen prints of rustic silhouettes. He started off by making merchandise for other artists and musicians in 2016, before getting into retail and custom orders. Thus, Calm Jungle came to life and is now about two years old.
Each shop acts as a window into people’s hopes and passions. As I passed each booth, I was lured in by the vendors with their inviting smiles, mingling with everyone like they were besties.
Rene Michelle, a family owned Y2K thrift and consignment shop, made me feel like a 2000’s “it-girl” walking the red carpet with her assortment of mini skirts and baby tees. I was able to talk to Rene, one of the owners, along with her mother who was her right hand for the day. Rene said her favorite part of SwapMeet RVA is “meeting new people and being inspired by other vendors.” She loves what she does and looks good doing it.
SwapMeet RVA is a must try for everyone’s 2024 wish list, combining local culture, small business and best of all, CLOTHES! Keep an eye out for details on their next event, happening Mar. 24 at Main Street Station!
Photography by Kobi McCray