A growing crowd of shoppers and a commitment to supporting small businesses are helping Carol Hofmann’s Hello Fall! Home-Town Craft Show become a gathering place for vendors and visitors in Sutton.
Hofmann, owner of Ruby Rose Cupcakes & More!, said her fall and spring shows average around 40 vendors, including food and coffee trailers. Since her first Sutton event, which drew an estimated 150 people, she has seen attendance at more recent shows reach as many as four times that number.
For Hofmann, that growth represents an opportunity to support both the businesses participating in the show and those throughout Sutton.
“My goal is not only to encourage people to shop small and support the amazing vendors who commit to these events, but also to encourage visitors to explore and enjoy the other wonderful local businesses in our community,” she said.
She hopes visitors make time to discover what Sutton offers beyond the craft show, extending the benefits of the event throughout the community.
Hofmann said the response from vendors helps keep her motivated. Participants have shared their appreciation for the support they receive, and many return for future shows. Along the way, some have become friends and customers of her cake and cupcake business.
“My vendors have shared how delighted they are to experience that support, and hearing their excitement makes all the hard work worthwhile,” she said.
Organizing the shows involves more than filling vendor spaces. Hofmann said she continually seeks new talent, unique products and attractions while working to reach a broad audience through advertising.
“When a vendor chooses to participate in one of my events, I want to go above and beyond to help bring a crowd through the doors,” she said. “I want my vendors to feel that their time, commitment, and investment matter.”
This fall’s event also gave shoppers and vendors an opportunity to help neighbors through a food drive benefiting the Little Free Pantry.
In celebration of her 62nd birthday, Hofmann asked supporters to help her collect 62 items — one for each year of her life. They exceeded that goal by 22, bringing the donation to 84 items and providing a substantial restock for the pantry.
The Little Free Pantry offers a place where people can pick up food anonymously when they need a little extra help. Community donations keep that support available, allowing neighbors to help one another through something as simple as contributing a few groceries.
Hofmann credited generosity she has witnessed locally with inspiring her to add the food drive to her craft shows.
“Seeing the generosity, kindness, and support within this community inspired me to find a small way to give back and help others,” she said.
Bringing the collection into an established community event offered a way for people to support small businesses while also helping stock the pantry.
“If we can bring people together to shop small, support local businesses, enjoy a fun day out, AND help those in need, then that is a win in my book!” Hofmann said.
The next Hello Spring! Home-Town Craft Show is scheduled for March 20, 2027. Indoor vendor spaces are already fully booked, and a waiting list has begun. Hofmann also hopes to bring one or two additional family- oriented attractions to the spring event, with details to be announced.
“Small-town support is something truly special, and I am so proud to be a part of it,” she said.
