Downtown Farmers’ Market Vendor Spotlight: Cedar Street Rustics

When you visit the Cedar Street Rustics booth at the Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines, pick out a fabric pumpkin and other home décor for the fall season. Stop by, say hello to Angie and shop the cozy, fallish items at her booth along Court Avenue this weekend. Oct. 14 will be Cedar Street Rustics' final Saturday at this year's Market. The Market season officially ends on Saturday, Oct. 28.

Angie Kamps Q+A

What is your business?

My business name is Cedar Street Rustics.

2.  What do you specialize in?

We specialize in handmade home décor, primarily fabric pumpkins to cozy up your home for fall.

3.  How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Originally, I was a wood sign maker. I started making fabric pumpkins solely to add some different textures to my vendor booth that up to that point was mainly wood. I decided to try fabric pumpkins as I hadn’t really seen any other makers in the area with that product and wanted to step out and add something new to the landscape. I quickly learned there was interest in them and switched my focus from sign decor to fall pumpkins.

4.  How long have you had your business?

I can’t believe it has already been nine years since I started Cedar Street Rustics. It has evolved from primarily a wood sign-making business to fabric pumpkins over the years.

5.  How long have you been a part of the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market?

This is my first year!

6.  What products do you normally bring to The Market?

We bring our Cedar Street Rustics “Pumpkin Patch” full of fabric pumpkins in various sizes, colors and textures.

7.  What’s your favorite part about The Market?

My favorite part of The Market is connecting with customers. I absolutely love all things fall, so to see the reaction of fellow fall-enthusiasts when they notice our “pumpkin patch” brings me great joy.

8.  What memory stands out the most when you look back at your time at The Market?

A few might think I’m crazy for this, but I love the early morning setup and watching the sun rise over Court Avenue as all the vendors are busy preparing for The Market. There’s excitement in the air as we all get ready!

9.  What advice would you have for new vendors?

I would encourage vendors to step out of their comfort zones and not be afraid to bring something new to The Market. We primarily sell at craft shows/maker fairs so a large, metro Farmers’ Market was a new step for us, and it has been a lot of fun!

10.  How can people support your business outside of The Market?

As with all small businesses, word of mouth and social media — Facebook or Instagram — shares go a long way towards expanding our reach and sales. We love it when we hear new customers tell us we were recommended by a friend or family member.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options. Find event information and follow @downtownDSMUSA on Facebook and Instagram for other news, tips and events happening downtown.