Move over grown-ups!  There are new, highly motivated makers in town…and they’re kids! Kids who are changing the retail world with their enthusiasm, fresh ideas and new products — just in time for buyers to find unique goods and gifts for the holiday season.
 
An impressive group of these enterprising businesses will be showing off their talent, promoting their creations and introducing themselves to prospective buyers at a special pop-up shop featuring young entrepreneurs, set for this Sunday in Nyack. 
 
Hosted by Maria Luisa Boutique, the shop will open at 12:00 noon on Sunday, December 13 and run until 4:00 pm at 75 South Broadway. Everyone is invited to bring their holiday shopping lists, browse the exhibits and sample what the kids are offering.  
 
The shop is just one of Nyack’s Safe Haven events, now inviting visitors to explore a Winter Wanderland of festive shopping, dining, live music and other delights in this beautiful river-side village. As always in Nyack’s Safe Haven, patrons must wear masks and practice social distancing.
“Part of our Winter Wanderland, the Young Entrepreneurs pop-up shop is a platform for our kids who, despite the pandemic, are reinventing our world and making it a better place,” said Maria Luisa Whittingham, owner of Maria Luisa boutique.
 
“For some kids, fun isn’t always about video games, online movies and social media,” added Whittingham. “Fun is creating new things, changing the way things are made, and working on improving the way we manufacture, market and enjoy the goods that enrich our lives.”
Here’s a sampling of the young entrepreneurs who will be showcased at the pop-up event:
Maker Gigi. Owner: Gigi Marchese, 9 years old. “I hand-sew animals and monsters out of felt,” says Gigi. “I try to make things I know my friends will like. I was inspired to start creating these special toys because of some makers I saw at a Maker Faire last year. I hope I can inspire some people, too, just like they did for me. When you make something with your own hands, it can make you feel happy. And you can make others feel happy by sharing those creations.” Visit Gigi on Instagram at Maker Gigi.
 
Just Add Ice Cream. Owner: Faith Lazerus, 15 years old. “I make personalized make-your-own sundae kits,” says Faith. “The kit includes toppings like marshmallows, gummy bears, M&M’s, chocolate chips and sprinkles, as well as hot fudge and caramel — plus you get cones, bowls and spoons. Everything is neatly wrapped and tied with ribbon, and the box is personalized with the recipient’s name and greeting.” Pick up or delivery options. A thoughtful  creative, easy, delicious and SAFE way give someone you love a gift they will love. Just add ice cream! Contact at faithrlaz3@gmail.com
Force NYC. Owner: Delyth Phillips, 17 years old. “I source and design sustainable streetware with a New York City vibe. Products include creatively styled hoodies, sweats, t-shirts and other cool clothing items for teens and young adults. I advocate for climate-friendly, sustainable fashion, and partner with charitable organizations such as Housing Works, an AIDs advocacy group, and Bright Pink, a non-profit that works for breast health awareness and advancements in breast cancer treatment. You can see my latest stuff on the web at forceclothingnyc.com and contact me at forcenewyorkcity@gmail.com.”
Maria Luisa Whittingham is a co-founder of Nyack Merchants United, a community-based advocacy organization for small businesses in Nyack. Merchants United supports the hard work of businesses and the community to navigate the COVID crisis, while keeping the post-pandemic future clearly within sight.  For more details, contact mlgifts@marialuisaboutique.com. On Facebook, go to Maria Luisa Boutique