September 26, 2024
Get ready for the exciting Back Alley Market (BAM) this Saturday, September 28th, from 9 AM to 3 PM! Egyptian Theatre Marketing Intern, Tori Smith, sat down with Vickie Obermiller, one of BAM’s organizers, to discuss what makes this local market special. With 140 vendors showcasing fine art, handcrafted goods, and a brand-new ODDITIES ALLEY, this event is a must-see. Vickie also shared BAM’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting vendors who upcycle and recycle. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and community in downtown DeKalb!
TORI: What do you think makes the Back Alley Market unique compared to other local markets?
VICKIE: We really try to curate fun and interesting vendors. We limit categories so our vendors do well
and our customers don’t “see the same thing over and over.”
T: What can shoppers expect at this event, in terms of the art showcased and the overall
atmosphere?
V: We have fine art prints, pottery, wood smiths, onsite glassblowers, sculptures, handcrafted
jewelry, Decoy Carver, a calligrapher, and even a typewriter poet.
T: Are there any new additions to this year’s event that weren’t featured at previous BAM
markets?
V: We have many new faces as well as our seasoned vendors. We have approximately 140
vendors this fall. We will also be featuring our ODDITES ALLEY this year.
T: Can you provide some insight on some of the vendor’s products or artwork this year and how
they represent the culture, values, or needs of the local community?
V: This event is a collection of small businesses and creators from many backgrounds, all bringing
their special personalities to their spaces. BAM openly celebrates vendors who upcycle, recycle, and sustainably make their products.
T: Are there any artists you would like to spotlight for taking this approach for their products?
V: This Little Bird upcycles “throw-away” kitchen items to make bird feeders, Rebel Betty upcycles
jackets and clothing, Forks Wrench’s and U turns upcycles books, plates, and more. Of course,
there are many more. The vintage and retro vendors are recycling everything!
T: In light of the Egyptian Theatre hosting Earth Fest this last spring, why is it important to
celebrate sustainability all year round?
V: We are such a “throwaway” society. Every upcycled item brings the past and history with it. Our
landfills are full of unwanted things from the past as well as non-recyclables that are used every
day. Drink out of crystal! Eat off of china! Save the planet.
T: What will the community take away from this year’s BAM?
V: We have a beautiful downtown filled with creative and friendly people. They will see how vibrant
and colorful our community really is!
