Founder of General Collective
Seven years ago Rose had her first son and began making baby products along with a bunch of creative friends. Wishing to showcase their products on some sort of platform by doing something quite different, they came together and put forward a curated market experience, and General Collective, grew from there.a
What was the biggest challenge you faced getting General Collective off the ground?
To be honest, it just grew organically. With the help of word-of-mouth and social media, we actually had a strong following from the start. There was a lot of interest in the curated aspect and General Collective grew naturally from there—and continues to do so.
What are some of the benefits for small businesses in getting involved with these markets?
First and foremost is the exposure these businesses and craftspeople get. They also get to meet clients and obtain valuable direct feedback as far as their products are concerned; especially helpful if they are an online business. Our markets also help them to build their customer base.
Having an event-based business must have been challenging over the past year?
Post the lockdowns, we picked up many new brands, probably due to the fact that many people had to change jobs while others lost theirs. Covid and the lockdowns gave them the push to start something new. We have also found that there is a fresh passion to support local. All of these things have helped to grow our business.
What has been the most rewarding part of having General Collective over the past eight years?
Without a doubt, seeing people thrive and witnessing their success stories. I have seen many small start-ups grow into viable businesses, displaying amazing growth and making really good money.
General Collective showcases stalls selling a great variety of handmade creations; what are some of your favourites?
- Claybird Ceramics – this boutique ceramic studio is a long time fave, with Yon Kavvas having been with us since the beginning.
- Gerty Brown – Morag—Gerty was her grandmother’s name—is a longstanding General Collective creative and makes original and eclectic cushions and accessories, including the ever popular girlband.
- Olivia Bezett – Olivia started with us when she was 16 years old—and she is 21 now. She is a full-time artist and does mainly pencil drawings of animals, each adorned with a quirky twist.
What should first-time visitors to your market expect?
A curated collection of unique and original New Zealand designs and handmade products, packaged in an upscale market experience. Everything at a General Collective market is high standard and our food offering is amazing. There are activities for the kids, too. Our markets are a one-day showcase of New Zealand creativity.
Any valuable lessons learnt?
Believe in yourself and keep the focus. That which you focus on will grow!
How do you destress?
I go hard at the gym, and my garden is my happy place.
