Events Social Wellbeing

Meet your vendors for Melanin Market

By: Lubna Patel

Published on: September 18, 2026

Come for the market, stay for the vibes

Looking for something new to add to your collection this semester? A self-care item, a good read, or a treat to take home? Or are you looking to enjoy an afternoon on campus?

Well, look no further! The Melanin Market is here, bringing an exciting lineup of Black-owned businesses to campus!

You’ll find jewellery and beauty, books, food, and much more, whether you are shopping for yourself or just browsing and having fun. Here are some vendors you’ll want to keep an eye out for.

Find your next accessory

 A rock with gold jewelry kept on top aesthetically
Photo by Isaline Baslé on Unsplash

Accessories are the final details of a perfect outfit. Love a good accessory? Then you are in luck. AfroCrush and Love Light Jewels are bringing their jewellery collections to Lakeshore and North campus, making the market a great place to browse for any accessory and find a unique touch for your outfits.

And if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe, Canada Black Owned Marketplace has you covered! Bringing their lifestyle and fashion offerings, these booths are not to be missed.

Self-care is self-love

A white felt letter board with a black wooden frame displaying the phrase "SELF CARE ISN'T SELFISH" in raised black capital letters. The board rests on a soft pink surface with the shadow of a palm frond cast across the top right corner.
Photo by Madison Inouye from Pexels

What’s an afternoon without a little self-care?

Beauty and hair-care enthusiasts can explore Beauty Braids & Beyond and Curls Confidence, vendors that are bringing in their expertise in hair care because your hair deserves the right love. For something to care for your hair and personal style, check out Taji Beauty Co, which will showcase their hair care accessories as well as their body products.

Find skincare products from Diva Creations, Lite it Up Products, Royal Roots Beaute, and VMC Skin Source. Don’t know much about skincare? This market is a chance to talk to the entrepreneurs and get more insight into the products.

And for the final self-care stop, check out Please Notes for wellness-focused products designed to bring a little more intention and reflection into your everyday routine (a must for students!).   

Update your TBR

A person lying down on a sandy beach, seen from behind with their head wrapped in a striped scarf, holding up a book to read next to a woven straw beach bag under a vibrant blue sky and turquoise ocean.
Photo by Dan Dumitriu on Unsplash

Let’s admit it, most of our current readings include pages upon pages from never-ending textbooks.

It’s time to spend some time on fun reads as well. Discover your next read with I Like Being Me Books.

This literature vendor is bringing their love of books and storytelling directly to you to find new stories and voices. After long days spent in textbooks it is definitely time to reset with a favourite read.

Grab a treat

A woman eating a sweet treat in front of a pink background

Photo by Dan Dumitriu on Unsplash
Photo by Dan Dumitriu on Unsplash

Shopping and browsing got you working up an appetite?

It’s time to check out Koko Chu and Seamoss N Tings. Bringing in chocolates and nutritional drinks, these vendors are sure to make your stomach have something to enjoy. The perfect excuse to take a break between class and grab one of these treats.

Find something for your space

A collage of multicoloured basket woven decors
Photo by Charlotte Harrison on Unsplash

Maybe your next best find is not for your closet but instead for your space.

Your shoes deserve a designated spot in your home. Walluz Co is bringing that spot to you and giving you the perfect chance to add something special to your living space while keeping it organized.

Browsing more housewares? Dryanke Fashion is offering home decor pieces and a variety of lifestyle items.

Your market list

An ipad with a checklist drawn on, with an smart pen
Photo by Xander Wegscheider on Unsplash

With so many vendors bringing in so many different passions and perspectives to campus, this is your sign to explore the not-to-miss event!

Grab your friends, bring your shopping list and discover one-of-a-kind products! Enjoy your time with entertainment, good reads or something delicious. You’ll never know what you’ll find! 

See you on the Lakeshore campus Sept. 24 from 11 am – 4 pm at L-Commons!

Feature photo by Xander Wegscheider on Unsplash

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