CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — For the first time, the Corpus Christi's vendors market 'Loca for Local' will go virtual.
"I do things that reflect the culture, but also I sew and I create T-shirts that empower women," Sew Bonita owner Elena Flores said.
Flores was the master mind behind Loca for Local.
"I'm an online business and I wanted to do a pop up where I can sell some products to my community in Corpus Christi," Flores said.
It grew from a handful of businesses in 2016 to dozens quickly.
"We had 36 vendors, food trucks and all kind of drinks and fun at BUS [bar]," Flores said.
BUS or Bar Under the Sun in downtown Corpus Christi was Loca for Local's home until the coronavirus pandemic.
"It's been hard, but the upside is that more of us are banding together and promoting each other on social media," Samantha Thurman, vendor and owner of Lavender and Lee said.
Not being able to sell in person is a struggle for many who are now relying on their online stores.
"We've seen a lot of people that are just here to support the local business economy," Nkki Riojas, owner of Made in Corpus Christi said. "Which is really really important right now."
For others who don't have that option, the market was the only way for them to showcase their work.
"We're just thinking how can we continue with Loca and provide a safe environment for our vendors and our customers," Flores said.
Now, Loca for Local will be curbside.
"You don't have to get out of your car," Riojas said. "So you can shop safely, and you can pick up safely and I think it's just going to be a fun day all around."
Starting on Thursday, August 6 at 10 a.m. until Friday August 7 at 10 p.m., shoppers can go online and buy goods from more than 15 businesses. It's one check out on one website.
"People are able to purchase locally made and crafted goods from T-shirts and hats to posters and jewelry," Riojas said. "You name it. We sell it over here."
On Sunday, August 9, shoppers can pick up their order from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Haggenmires Barbecue. They will also be selling plates through the website.
"I would have never thought to have all of the vendors go drop off all of these goodies and all of these big bags and you can go and pick up," Thurman said. "It's like Christmas. It's so cool."
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