Vendors Transform into Organizers for an Extraordinary Market Celebrating the ‘Strange and Unusual’

Tucson will soon host a distinctive event aimed at fostering community among local artisans. Zully Alexandra and Sara Logan, both experienced vendors, are launching “An Unuzual Market” on Saturday, January 4, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Coalition Space.

Alexandra, known for her “creepy cute dolls” through her brand Zoodoo Dolls, expressed the need for a space where unconventional creators can thrive. “Sometimes, we don’t always fit in normal markets, so we decided to make this market,” she stated.

The two friends connected while vending at a toy show, and their shared experiences sparked the idea for this event. Logan highlighted the vibrant market scenes in other cities, like Phoenix’s Witchcrafted Market, and identified a gap in Tucson. “There’s no place where people can congregate and express themselves,” she explained. “We wanted to create a safe space for all.” The monthly market aims to fill that void.

The inaugural event will feature 30 vendors, alongside tarot readings, food, music, and tattoo artists showcasing flash artwork. A nominal $1 entrance fee will contribute to a selected charity each month, with the first event’s proceeds benefiting Ben’s Bells, an organization dedicated to spreading kindness.

Despite the challenges of organizing a new market, Alexandra and Logan received an overwhelming response from vendors, forcing them to close submissions earlier than anticipated. Their efforts have already attracted interest for future events, indicating a strong community desire for this type of gathering.

Ensuring a positive vendor experience is a priority for the organizers. “We’re curating our vendors, so there’s not going to be a lot of competition,” Logan emphasized. Each participant will bring something unique to the table, promoting equal opportunities for business.

The market will also be family-friendly, featuring a quiet space and a designated kids’ area to enhance the shopping atmosphere. “People need community; it’s a basic human need,” Logan added, reflecting on the importance of connection.

Mark your calendars for January 4 at The Coalition Space, located at 311 E. 7th St., for a day of creativity, community, and support for local artisans.