Body positivity jewelry, tequila boards —Women entrepreneurs shine at Brockton pop up

Alisha Saint-Ciel, The Enterprise
·2 min read

BROCKTON — Local entrepreneurs found a way to connect on a big scale during Women's History Month, and they have no plans of stopping.

"The city of Brockton showed out for the women's history day pop-up. The entrepreneurs were so supportive of each other, we networked, bought items from one another, and there's just a strong sense of community here," Rita DePina, owner of Handmade by Rita, said.

Black Owned Brockton, a business advocacy organization specializing in spreading awareness of local Black businesses, partnered with the Westgate Mall to bring the Women's History Month pop-up to fruition.

"By supporting local women-owned and Black-owned businesses, we are stepping up as part of the solution to financial stability. It's imperative to continue to celebrate Black culture year-round, increasing visibility and ultimately helping entrepreneurs grow," said Shaleah Gilmer, founder of Black Owned Brockton.

Janica Pierre, owner of Janica Marcella Collection, is a vendor at a women-owned pop-up market at the Westgate Mall on Saturday, March 25, 2023.
Janica Pierre, owner of Janica Marcella Collection, is a vendor at a women-owned pop-up market at the Westgate Mall on Saturday, March 25, 2023.

Dozens of entrepreneurs set up tables with their products to celebrate the holiday.

DePina, a mother and entrepreneur, found herself selling her one-of-a-kind handmade items at the pop-up on Saturday, March 25, and was pleased with the outcome.

"It was so amazing to see women coming together and genuinely supporting one another. The event was a great networking opportunity with a room filled with women following their passions and doing things they love to do," DePina said.

The crafty business, Handmade by Rita, specializes in tequila boards, crotchet handbags, fine jewelry, bridal clothing and custom creations.

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Rita DePina, owner of Handmade by Rita, is a vendor at a women-owned pop-up market at the Westgate Mall on Saturday, March 25, 2023.
Rita DePina, owner of Handmade by Rita, is a vendor at a women-owned pop-up market at the Westgate Mall on Saturday, March 25, 2023.

DePina joined the lineup of vendors to be more present in the community of Brockton.

"I told myself the main goal is to get myself out there to join and participate in events like this and truly showcase my work and creativity," DePina said.

DePina wasn't the only vendor blown away by the overwhelming amount of love received. True Beauty Beads, a waist bead and jewelry business, sold over 100 units of products during the pop-up.

"There was incredible energy, laughter, happiness, customers coming in and out shopping. It was so refreshing meeting other female entrepreneurs and learning more about their vision and business. I appreciate everyone who came out to support us," said Leona Eastman, owner of True Beauty Beads.

From left, Pheme Davis and Leona Eastman, co-owners of True Beauty Beads, are vendors at a women-owned pop-up market at the Westgate Mall on Saturday, March 25, 2023.
From left, Pheme Davis and Leona Eastman, co-owners of True Beauty Beads, are vendors at a women-owned pop-up market at the Westgate Mall on Saturday, March 25, 2023.

Eastman's goal is to bring body positivity to the mainstream through her jewelry. The waist beads have a historical significance in African culture as a sign of femininity, confidence and fertility.

"Events like these are important because women aren't recognized enough for what we do. People often underestimate women and their abilities. There are so many women doing big things, and they should be praised," Eastman said.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Black Owned Brockton: Pop Up for women-owned businesses