On Saturday, May 2nd, the social hall of Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church at 4600 S. King Drive in Chicago came alive with vendors, food trucks, shoppers, and community spirit.
The Women’s Ministry hosted its 3rd Annual Dear Mama Pop-Up Shop — a free, festive celebration of independent Black business owners just in time for Mother’s Day.
What began three years ago has quickly grown into a beloved community event. This year, many patrons came through the doors to shop, eat, and support local entrepreneurs. With more than 23 vendors on site, multiple food trucks, and a raffle to keep the energy high, the afternoon had something for everyone — from wellness products and clothing to food and beyond.
Minister Tara Watkins, serving under Pastor Dr. E.F. Ledbetter III at Mt. Pisgah, was one of the event organizers and spoke about its purpose to 3:16 Magazine.
“We bring different independent business owners collectively to come together,” she explained. “Not only just for Mother’s Day — you want to get something for your mother, but for yourself. We have wellness, clothes, food.”
Open to All, Rooted in Community
One of the most notable aspects of the Dear Mama Pop-Up Shop is its openness. Of the 23 vendors present, Minister Watkins noted that only about three were actual church members — the rest were independent business owners from the broader community, welcomed in to showcase their work and connect with new customers.
Vendors pay a flat rate to participate, but keep every dollar they earn beyond that. It is a model designed to put money directly into the hands of small business owners.
“We need more events like this to keep the Black dollars in the community,” one attendee expressed — a sentiment that captures the heart of what the Dear Mama Pop-Up Shop is truly about.
Mark Your Calendars
Minister Watkins confirmed to 3:16 Magazine that the pop-up shop will return next year, and extended an open invitation to vendors interested in participating.
“If you are a vendor out there, we would love to host your business — by all means, please come out next year.”
The 3rd Annual Dear Mama Pop-Up Shop was more than a shopping event. It was a demonstration of what a church, a community, and a group of determined women can build when they commit to uplifting one another — one vendor, one dollar, and one Mother’s Day gift at a time. Original content: 3:16 Magazine.
