This article was originally published in the Outdoors print issue of The Daily Utah Chronicle, originally in stands on September 23, 2024. It has not been updated and some information may be out of date.
The Utah local scene is growing, and not just in population. Bohemian Bum hosts local farmers and artisans monthly at the Gateway.
The Gateway is well-known for sharing its space with locals to showcase their many expertise. Bohemian Bum runs May through October and on the first Sunday of each month. It invites the surrounding communities to enjoy all the “locally sourced treasures” Utah has to offer.
Eco-Friendly, Eco-Family
A couple started their journey of Bohemian Bum in 2021 in Charleston, South Carolina. The market found its home in Utah last May and has been ongoing since. Lauren Jensen and Landon Rosa have created a strong bond with the vendors they’ve been working with and the surrounding community, providing hospitality through sustainable endeavors.
The goal is to “have every item [sold] with the intention that the item is not going to be just wasted and thrown away. That it can be used and recycled whether it would be donated or given to a family in need,” Jensen said.
The most recent market was held on Sept. 1 where The Daily Utah Chronicle spoke with the organizers about the initiative of Bohemian Bum.
“I just wanted to have a space that I enjoyed coming to … that family and friends are welcome [to enjoy] as well,” Jensen said. “There wasn’t a huge push that I saw anywhere else to be sustainable and eco-friendly and to have families around.”
Naturally NaQuai
Along with the family-friendly advantage, Bohemian Bum has a large variety of appeal. Walking along the market, each vendor has a different treasure to offer. From salsa to jewelry to dog food, each business has its own route to promoting sustainable efforts.
“[We want to] bring local vendors together so they have the opportunity to sell their goods, be seen, be heard; have a chance to present themselves to the community,” Rosa said.
We spoke to Jamera NaQuai, owner of Naturally NaQuai, and it was an immediate connection. They create handmade holistic body care products “dedicated to offering honesty and pride to your body,” NaQuai said. These even come prepared in recyclable glass containers.
When speaking to NaQuai, she explained the process of making these and then asked what scents I like and knew what to offer right away. Now, that’s what I call business.
Accessibility to the Fun
As explained by Jensen, a market should be fun. It’s what started the idea in the first place.
“It’s just fun … I love seeing everyone’s business,” Jensen said. “They’re amazing at what they do and no other person can bring that type of talent but them.”
Creating a fun atmosphere surrounded by vendors promoting earthly, recyclable goods is the only way to achieve this goal. This couple pulls it off with ease.
On top of everything, and to enjoy this atmosphere yourself, the market is very successful at making it accessible. Held at the Gateway, Bohemian Bum has dozens of ways for surrounding communities to make it out and enjoy a day away from work. TRAX blue and green lines, bikes and the free parking given on Sundays are just a few possibilities to choose from. Even better, most are eco-friendly.
Not only do they create opportunities for businesses to thrive, but also for local musicians. Rainy Main, a sister duo created by Brittney Mainor and Rachel Robison, perform at each market with their contemporary pop sets. As emerging artists in the scene, it’s a must see event.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Be Sustainable
Jensen and Rosa want to make a lasting impression on Salt Lake City.
“We are only going to be here for the next two years. So, we want to make our stay as impactful as possible … [We’re] hoping that this market can still be around even though we’re not here, that we can have someone amazing take over to help small businesses,” the couple said.
The next market will be held on Oct. 6.
