Testimonials
We are building a winter economy for artisans by providing them a place to sell, and providing the community a meaningful way to shop small and shop local. Our markets have consistently demonstrated remarkable success. Here is what vendors are saying:
I truly appreciate the integrity of the products featured at your shows. The organization, flexible move-in times, and overall professionalism make it a pleasure to participate.
Printed Paw Crafts
Kim Ulrich
I can’t say enough good things about Made in Iowa! Being part of their vendor fairs has truly helped my business grow and reach so many new customers I wouldn’t have connected with otherwise. The atmosphere at every event is positive, welcoming, and full of great energy. It’s clear that Made in Iowa genuinely cares about helping small businesses succeed — they go above and beyond to support and promote every vendor. I’m so grateful to be part of their events and highly recommend them to any local business owner looking to expand their reach!
Katie Jo Essentials
Katie Jo Bruhn
The De-Ranged Chicken hit a new sales record. We sold 60 loaves of bread in the first hour of the opening of the market!
De-Ranged Chicken
Janet Morgan
Made in Iowa has given my small business opportunities and exposure I would have never received without their expertise. Cynthia has created a true community of vendors and her passion behind supporting local is second to none. In turn, this has allowed me as a small business owner, more time to focus on curating new product offerings.
White Birch & Co.
Brandy Zimmerman
The entire Made in Iowa team has both embraced my small business and accelerated my ability to reach new customer audiences. Their marketing expertise combined with their passion for the smallest details makes them a force to be reckoned with. I am beyond proud to partner with them.
Just The Girls
Heather Dankert
There is so much positive to be said about the MADE IN IOWA SHOWS! Promoters strive to truly get to the heart of local vendors to showcase their talent and abilities through many streams of advertising to bring the public through the doors! It is definitely their passion to allow vendors to shine and be successful!! 💕💕
Bubs Candiez
Shelly Raney
Small business is tough. Having a venue like Made In Iowa that is well organized and well advertised helps us little guys gain exposure and connect with more customers. 10/10 would recommend!
bluestrawberrycoffee.com
Wesley Bryant
While there’s no shortage of art and craft fairs in the greater Cedar Rapids area, Cynthia Freese and her Made in Iowa event blew the others away! I’ve been vending my jewelry for many years, at many shows both here and in California and Hawaii, and the MII show was as well, if not better organized, advertised and managed than all of them. Kudos to Cynthia! I’m looking forward to future Made in Iowa events.
BohoBeads
Susy Meyer
What a great organized event! We did not know what to expect as this was our first large show, or first Made in Iowa event. We did not have a break until the last half hour, the booth was full all day. We could not believe the number of attendees. Fantastic advertising! There was such a good variety of vendors, something for everyone!
Herren’s Woodcraft & More
Thanks to the Marion Sun for recognizing the need in this area for winter markets and for putting them together. There was an amazing turnout and we had a great day.
KJ's Smokin' Snacks
I started my journey as an entrepreneur in 2023 and had little idea of what I was doing. I found the Made In Iowa Vendor page through some contacts and reached out about doing my first one at the February 2024 Made In Iowa Winter Market. They were so excited to introduce me to the world of vendor shows and even helped me get my first sales by mentioning me on the local news that had stopped by that morning. From that first vendor show I knew Made In Iowa was something special. Every show I've done with them since has been fantastic. From the customers to the other business owners I've met, I wholeheartedly believe Made In Iowa exudes the midwestern spirit of community and collaboration.
Beau Laundry Co. LLC
Alex B
"The Marion Sun winter markets are a nice addition to the community and a great opportunity during a time of year when there aren't typically many markets. The winter markets were some of our most profitable markets we attended this year to date."
Pasta of the Prairie
Lindsey Steinkamp
What a great organized event! We did not know what to expect as this was our first large show, or first Made in Iowa event. We did not have a break until the last half hour, the booth was full all day. We could not believe the number of attendees. Fantastic advertising! There was such a good variety of vendors, something for everyone!
Herren’s Woodcraft & More