The Cozy Market: A Hub for Community Connections

TYC Veronica's Vision Brings Artists and Entrepreneurs Together

By André Averion, Communications Chair

Published January 3, 2025.

Nestled in the heart of Dallas, The Cozy Market made its debut as a vibrant space for small businesses and artisans to showcase their craft. Organized by TYC Veronica, the market is not just an event but a mission to uplift emerging entrepreneurs and foster connections within the community.

“I started the market because I came onto a team that was really passionate about supporting artists,” Veronica said, who also runs the creative platform Talk Your Creativity. “I realized that opportunities for artists like me weren’t easy to find, and I wanted to create something that could help others navigate the challenges I faced.”

The Cozy Market is the latest extension of Veronica’s efforts to advocate for small businesses. Held for the first time at the SOVA Micro-Room & Social Hotel, the market builds on her successful weekly events at Inclusion Coffee, where four vendors come together every Saturday and Sunday for four hours to connect with the community.

The inaugural Cozy Market featured a diverse array of offerings, from arts and crafts to tamales and coffee. 

“We also have nonprofits here, and it’s just very exciting for someone to come and start exploring,” Veronica said. “The idea is small businesses giving back to the community.”

Veronica’s passion for supporting other artists stems from her own journey as a poet and creative mind in the DFW area, navigating through the hardships of starting up. Through Talk Your Creativity, she has created a platform for creatives to find mentorship, guidance and a network of like-minded individuals.

 “Coming up as an artist wasn’t easy,” she shared. “I’d ask myself, ‘How do I transition from open mics?’ I saw how I was treated in the community and knew I wanted to be a support system for others.” 

For the participating vendors, markets like these are more than just a place to sell their products; they’re a chance to connect with their neighbors and share their stories. 

“Community is a safe haven,” Veronica said. “It’s where you have people you can reach out to, whether it be someone who makes your meals or a friend you find through shared experiences. One brick at a time builds a building.”

Local markets have become vital for small businesses, especially in an era where many face challenges competing against large retailers and online monopolies. They provide a platform for artisans, chefs, and crafters to gain visibility and connect with customers who value local, handmade, and unique goods.

The Cozy Market exemplifies the importance of these events in strengthening community bonds and encouraging entrepreneurship. For Veronica, it’s about creating opportunities and building a legacy. “I want to be an advocate for all these other artists who have questions or want to learn logistics,” Veronica said. “This is about giving them a chance to thrive.”

Businesses and organizations that attended the event included:

• The Pilipino American Community Endeavor (PACE)

• Jericho Jerky

• Your Cool Ninang

• Mimas Cocina

• Bidaya Coffee