Creativity and dedication shine through the stories of local business owners
By Juan Arturo Trillo
news@queensledger.com
Astoria’s Kaufman Arts District played host to Queens Rises Higher, a street market by the Queens Economic Development Corporation that allows local creators and business owners to exhibit and sell their passions and products.
Market in Astoria’s Kaufman Arts District
The market occurred on Saturday, June 25 from noon to 5 p.m., and included live music. The businesses encompassed various sectors, including art, food, and others.
Bianca, founder of Bianca’s Design Shop, said “I just aim to support and be inclusive to all.” Through Bianca’s Design Shop, she creates apparel and accessories that are inclusive for the LGBTQ+ community.
Bianca loves the sense of community which can be found in Queens, and hopes that it continues to remain inclusive.
Gisela’s small business, “Scent by Heaven,” is a small candle store that began in Forest Hills in 2019.
Talisa’s setup for Almonte Studios at the fair
However, candle making had been one of her hobbies before she started the business. It is one of her ways of expressing her creativity.
She started the business so that she could spend more time with her son, who has autism.
Now, Gisela loves that she gets to pursue a passion of hers while also dedicating time to her son.
Illustrator Talisa Almonte founded Almonte Studios, a business where she sells various art prints, earrings, stickers, stationery, and “whatever [she] can get [her] work on.”
Because Talisa does not have a brick-and-mortar store, she appreciates that the fair allows her to connect with the Queens community and other local businesses.
“There’s really no place like Queens,” Talisa said.
