Our Story
We are Ottistry, an organization dedicated to hosting markets that support local small businesses in their growth. Our markets provide a unique platform for vendors to showcase their products and engage directly with customers in a meaningful way.
In addition, we offer vendors the opportunity to conduct their own workshops, sharing the stories, processes, and efforts behind their creations. This not only educates attendees but also deepens the connection between makers and the community.
Each market is also a collaboration with at least one non-profit organization to raise awareness and collect donations such as money, clothes, and food for their cause.
As the first organization to simultaneously support charities and small businesses through specialized markets, we are proud to foster a vibrant and inclusive community that benefits everyone involved!
(We have a bin to accept clothing / shoes/ toiletries and non perishable foods at our events that we giveaway monthly at Oppenheimer park)
Previous Market-Her Passion Market
Her Passion Market(March 8th): A Celebration of Women’s Day at The Pipe Shop
On March 8th, Ottistry Community Markets hosted the incredible Her Passion Market, a vibrant Women’s Day celebration in the heart of North Vancouver. The event, held at the iconic Pipe Shop Venue in the Shipyards, brought together over 50 talented local vendors showcasing their unique local products, from handmade crafts to fashion and home goods.
Guests enjoyed delicious food, live music from a local band, and a series of engaging workshops. Attendees had the opportunity to try their hand at jewelry making, explore children's music and instruments through fun, interactive dancing, and immerse themselves in a creative painting workshop. There was also face painting to add extra fun for the little ones!
The event was truly a celebration of women, community, and creativity, offering something for everyone in the family. We thank all our vendors, performers, and attendees who made this celebration so special. Stay tuned for our next community event—you won’t want to miss it!
Join us at Ottistry Community Markets for more unforgettable experiences and fun ways to spend your weekend!
Previous Market-Shipyard market
Shipyard Market(March 29th): A Vibrant Celebration of Local TalentSpring Shipyard
On March 29th, 2025, the Spring Shipyard Market took place at the iconic Pipe Shop venue in North Vancouver, bringing together an incredible mix of community, creativity, and fun. The event showcased over 50 talented local vendors, each offering a wide array of unique products, from handmade crafts and artisanal goods to delicious food and local art.
The event was alive with energy and excitement, drawing in visitors of all ages. The atmosphere was made even more vibrant with performances by four fantastic local music groups, providing a lively soundtrack for the day’s festivities. Attendees enjoyed the sounds of various genres, adding to the lively mood that filled the venue.
For families, there was something special for the kids, with a variety of fun games and face painting stations that kept young visitors entertained throughout the day. Whether they were getting their faces painted with colorful designs or taking part in interactive sports games, there was no shortage of activities to make the experience memorable.
In addition to all the excitement, we also hosted a creative Shrink Plastic Workshop, where attendees had the opportunity to learn the art of shrinking plastic into unique designs. Guided by a local artist, participants created custom pieces, from jewelry to fun accessories, making for a hands-on, artistic experience that added an extra touch of creativity to the market.
The Spring Shipyard Market wasn't just a marketplace; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the spirit of spring. Thank you to everyone who made the event a success—our talented vendors, our amazing performers, and everyone who came out to enjoy the festivities. We look forward to seeing you next year at another exciting event!
Meet the Team
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Wenxin
FOUNDER
I’m an artist, designer, and small business owner with a deep passion for creativity and community. Through starting my own business, I experienced firsthand the challenges small business vendors face—such as unaffordable application fees, monotonous market styles, and limited opportunities to connect with customers. These struggles inspired me to dream bigger: to establish an organization dedicated to genuinely supporting local small business owners. My mission is to create dynamic, practical markets that bring value not only to vendors but also to visitors, fostering a more vibrant and interactive community.
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Natalie Porter
FOUNDER
I am a small business owner based in Burnaby. I understand the challenges entrepreneurs encounter and the essential support they require to thrive. I also run a local charity program dedicated to supporting the Vancouver Downtown Eastside community by providing donations to residents in need. I am passionate about making a meaningful impact, not only by empowering small business owners but also by helping people and animals in our community.