Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Villalobos.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story began less than a year ago with an idea that crossed my mind. I’m born and raised in Galveston so being from such a tiny island there’s not always going to be much to do. Usually, on my off days, I like to spend time in Houston exploring the art scene up there. I go to coffee shops, museums, look for live music, thrift stores, and markets. If I’m off for consecutive days I find myself traveling a lot and doing those things in the places I go. The thing I love about markets is that everyone comes together to share one big safe space to create together. It’s not only about making an item to sell but more so the experience that comes with it. The feeling you get when someone is interested in something that you’ve worked hard on.
When I saw that these markets where happening everywhere. I wondered why there was nothing like that in my hometown. I quickly began to ask around to see if anyone knew of any markets in Galveston. No one had answers. Eventually, I talked to my landlord/friend, Becky Major who is the creative director of the National Hotel Artist Lofts here in Galveston. She told me how she used to run a market here in Galveston years ago! There was so much that had to go into it and with little help & time they eventually stopped having them.
When I came up with the idea, Becky was just as pumped as I was. She saw my vision for the market and knew that this was something we could make happen. Over the next few days, it’s as if things started to fall into place. We got offered a spot at a new building called the MarMo. With the help of friends and family, I was able to spread the word and start my very first market. I called it Ascend.
The reason it’s called Ascend is because when you think of the word you think of moving up. In a way, I feel like I take pride in bringing others up with me. I love it when everyone uplifts each other. There’s no jealousy or hate involved in it. Everyone knows that they’re each their own flavor of chips. There’s no need to be worried about competition because at the end of the day we all come out to show our own products in our own unique way. There’s beauty when we can all come together to create this magical experience with one another.
After having my first market more doors started opening. I’ve been able to host markets at “Daiquiri Time Out” a local craft cocktail bar here in Galveston. It’s been such an awesome venue to work alongside! It’s always a great time. They’ve always been super supportive with everything that I do.
My goal is to be able to bring this experience to Houston. I’ve had soo many people tell me they’d want a market like Ascend in the Houston area. Currently, I’m looking into venues that would love to host us.
With the markets that I’ve hosted I try to create as many bonds with my vendors as possible. I want to know their story and how they got to where they’re at. There’s a sense of community and a different “vibe” to them from what my vendors have told me. To be honest that’s all them! Without them, I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing.
I’m grateful to be able to help out my community. I’m grateful for my family and friends who keep supporting me on this journey and for the venues that keep hosting us and for the future venues to come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I feel like there are always going to be bumps in the road but that’s okay! Bumps are meant to happen. We wouldn’t live and learn if we didn’t have them.
I had some struggles with one of my venues. I didn’t like the way my vendors where being treated by the owners of the venue so, I decided to detach from pursuing any more events with them. A lot of people would tell me that I should still keep them as a venue because of location and how many people would come but that would go against what I believe is right for ascend. I guess you could say I’m a little protective of my vendors. I don’t ever want to put them in a spot where they feel uncomfortable.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am the founder of Ascend Art Market and the Co-Founder of Con Lagrimas.
I do all of the things that go into making a market happen. I plan, promote, install, book, and create all of my markets. When I have a market in mind I first try to look for a venue, then a date, once I have those in place I look for music. I feel like having music just sets the tone for the market. After I have that I start to look for potential vendors. Once I have my vendors, there’s a lot of social media presence and promoting that has to take place. By the way, we do have an Instagram @AscendArtMarket
I also recently started my own food business with my friend Hanna Abraham. It’s called Con Lagrimas. We serve authentic Mexican food with a side of sass. Also recently made an Instagram for anyone who is interested in following me on that journey as well. Follow us @Con.Lagrimas
I’d say I’m most proud of how much people enjoy the markets. I love it when someone comes up to me and tells me how much fun they had or how much Galveston has been needing something like this.
What sets me apart from others is the passion and the people I surround myself with. Galveston has so many beautiful and talented individuals. I get to live and create with my creative friends. I wish people knew more about the art scene that we have here because it’s very much alive.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My drive, I have so much drive to do things. When I think about something I usually make it happen. Sometimes I have no idea how I’m going to do it but it just happens. My own form of manifestation I guess.
Contact Info:
- Email: Ascendartmarket@gmail.com
- Instagram: @AscendArtMarket
Image Credits
@RoxannGrover
@BrightBoxMediallc
