TAMPA, Fla. - An effort is underway to help you shop locally even while social distancing, with the start of a new virtual marketplace for area artists.
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The new website is called Buy Local, Tampa Bay and is a collaboration between LocalShops1 and Wanna Go Local, two organizations in support of local business growth.
“What we’re trying to do is create enough variety in the same way you would have in a market,” said Rob Sanchez, founder of Wanna Go Local. “Where you’re walking around and seeing the really cool things that showcase the heart of the city.”
Already, Sanchez says the website has more than 300 product listings from more than 100 artists.
Among them is Beth Miranda, owner of Mudjoy Pottery.
“It brings me so much joy to make something fun but functional,” Miranda said.
Like many others, Miranda said much of her business is done during local art festivals, which are now on hold amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
To support Miranda and other local artists, or to post your own art for sale, head to BuyLocalTampaBay.com