May Mart in Sewickley brings garden clubs, communities together

Flowers, fun and fellowship were in full bloom at the annual Sewickley Civic Garden Council’s May Mart.

A few hundred of people packed Broad Street, from Thorn to Beaver streets, for the vegetation celebration in Sewickley on May 11.

The event could not have worked out better for the flora and early attendees as the sun shone upon every thing in the morning and rain came down in the early afternoon.

“I think it was a really big success,” SCGC President Karen Galbraith said. “Vendors seemed happy. We sold out of cinnamon rolls and coffee quickly.

“The rain at the end was a bit of a bummer. It really started to come down. It was a bit rough, but we had a really nice start to it. Better than last year because it rained through the whole thing, but it was still great.”

May Mart committee member Terri Tunick said there were 70 vendors, including garden clubs and nonprofits at the event. It was a jump from about 50 vendors last year.

“I think it was well-attended,” Tunick said. “People were happy with the variety. They were happy with the growth of the May Mart. I just enjoy seeing all the people meeting old friends. I do like shopping for flowers.

“I did buy some hand-crafted jewelry. I appreciate people who are very artistic and creative.”

This year’s theme was “Keeping Sewickley Green.”

Sustainable Sewickley, PittMoss and Zero Waste Wrangler were there to discuss their programs, recycling and composting while keeping it local. The garden council had a compost bin at its booth.

The Bell School of Irish Dancers provided live entertainment.

Tomatoes, herbs and other vegetables were available as well as a variety of annuals and perennials. PopWorld’s fresh juiced popsicles were also very popular.

Children made bird feeders using tennis ball cans.

Galbraith said her favorite part of the day was the camaraderie.

“Everyone just seemed so happy,” she said. “Everyone was interacting with each other. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, and that’s what I like to see.”

May Mart is planned each year for the Saturday before Mother’s Day so people can get flowers for their matriarch and children can make gifts for their mom.

It is also just weeks before graduation, which provides plenty of time to find something for seniors moving on from high school.

Tunick said the goal is to have something for everyone.

May Mart may be expanded next year to Thorn Street if more vendors sign up.

More information about Sewickley Civic Garden Council and its member clubs is available at sewickleygardens.com.