GALLATIN, Tenn. (WKRN) — Creators of all ages took to the streets this weekend, showing off their handmade goods and creative talents in downtown Gallatin.

The city’s annual Main Street Festival drew thousands to celebrate the start of fall — with food vendors, crafts, and live entertainment filling the historic square.

But this year, one new addition stood out: a Kids Entrepreneur Zone, where young business owners turned their hobbies into small businesses.

“We’ve been doing this festival for more than 15 years, and it’s our biggest event of the year,” said Amy Nixon, executive director of Historic Downtown Gallatin. “This is the first time we’ve had a kids’ entrepreneurial area. It gives them a great real-world experience.”

Avayah Vester, 14, spent the day selling soaps, sugar scrubs, and homemade baked goods with her siblings — a business that started as a homeschool project.

“We have everything from organic cleaning supplies to sourdough bread,” Vester said. “I actually sold out, which makes me really happy.”

She said running a booth has taught her more than just business skills.

“It teaches us to be our own bosses and manage our time well,” she said. “It really helps even in school with marketing and planning.”

Down the row, Liberty Creek student Sawyer Harris sold his original artwork, including watercolor frogs, ink-drawn crabs, and colorful tuna sketches.

“It’s our first time,” Harris said. “Next time, I’ll bring more sweatshirts — and kids’ sizes.”

Organizers said they were impressed with the kids’ creativity and drive. Booth space for the new section sold out quickly.

“We’d love to do it again,” Nixon said. “It’s been really successful, and maybe next year we can expand it.”

For Vester, the message to other young dreamers is simple:

“Don’t be afraid to do your own thing,” she said. “Own your own business — because literally, you will own it.”

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/young-entrepreneurs-shine-at-gallatins-main-street-festival/