21/12/2025
This December has been extra special for Gantsilyo sa Sugbo as we became part of two Christmas Markets with Papi and Friends Flea Market, both alongside our booth partner Gen Celestine Scrunchies ๐ค
Our first-ever market with Papi and Friends was at 8 Banawa Centrale, and we honestly couldnโt have asked for a warmer welcome. From the start, we felt included and well taken care of โ wala gyud mi kafeel nga we're outsiders. Grabe ka thoughtful sa organizers, naa gali sila pa free pizza and dirty ice cream. It truly felt like family.
What meant a lot to us was that even though we were a booth partner, we were still included in the official merchant announcements and lists. This is something we donโt usually experience in other markets, where only the main applicant gets acknowledged. That small gesture made us feel seen and valued as a brand ๐ฉท
Our second Christmas Market was at Atua Midtown, still with Gen Celestine Scrunchies and still under Papi and Friends, and the same warmth followed. Even as first-time merchants, we never felt like outsiders. My parents manned our booth there, and Mama shared how hands-on and caring CJ was... personally checking in, making sure naa na ang merchant ID, and even asking about our stocks. Little things like that mean so much to small businesses like ours.
Weโre incredibly grateful to Gen Celestine Scrunchies for partnering with us, and to Papi and Friends for creating a space where merchants and customers alike feel welcome, cared for, and included.
Thank you for making our Christmas markets truly memorable. Hereโs to more pop-ups, more connections, and more handmade love ๐งถโจ