JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — In its third year, the 904 Pop Up in Jax Beach has been a lifeline for many small businesses.
It’s known as Jacksonville’s largest curated pop-up. On Sunday, more than 180 vendors showcased their work to thousands of community members.
Mark Braddock is the creator of the 904 Pop Up and the owner of 8103 Clothing. He started the pop-up in one of his stores in Jax Beach.
“It grew from 10 vendors to 80 vendors in less than three months,” Braddock said. “Now we’re here today with over 180 vendors.”
Braddock said the event is driven around supporting local businesses.
“The first dollar that is out there is with a local business, Braddock said. “That’s the focus of the 904 Pop Up -- to increase that synergy, build our culture, and continue to support our small businesses here in Jacksonville.”
After pandemic shutdowns, staffing shortages, and supply chain challenges through the years, bringing money back into the local economy has now taken some extra work. Small businesses were hit hard.
Action News Jax reporter Kennedy Dendy spoke with the team at Joycelyn’s Fish and Chicken.
“Most of all it’s about quality and always cooking with soul,” co-owner Justin Westcott said.
The road hasn’t been easy. They launched their business in June 2021 and have since endured tragic losses in their family-run business.
“My momma died Aug. 3 and then my daddy died Oct. 28. My grandma died the day before Thanksgiving,” co-owner Jamal Patterson said.
Patterson said keeping their names alive has become the why behind the push every day to turn their dreams into a reality.
He shared that the loyal customers also motivate them deeply.
The 904 Pop Up has encouraged small businesses to chase after their dreams, even through the setbacks.
Esteban Azofeifa is the owner of El Cubano Jax. He was furloughed from his job during the pandemic but made the decision to keep pushing.
“This was always a dream of mine -- to own my own business, be my own boss and be my own chef,” Azofeifa said.
Azofeifa started his business during the pandemic, selling sandwiches outside of bars and breweries. After support from the community and events like the 904 Pop up, doors opened up. Azofeifa now has a brick-and-mortar and is open inside of Lemonstreet Brewing Company.
He said he’s built a great team of people to help with his business but still has to take it all day by day.
“That’s why you catch me on the grill, and you also catch me cleaning and washing everything -- start to finish,” Azofeifa said.
But he said it’s been incredibly worth it and thanked Braddock for giving small businesses a platform.
“Don’t give up on your dreams,” Azofeifa said.
Locals enjoying the Sunday sunshine shared their thoughts.
“I’ve been out a couple of times,” local Ryan Turnage said. “It’s a good time with wholesome people. It’s a good way to spend your Sunday.”
Michael Cordeiro is the founder and co-owner of Natural Dragonfly Wellness. He moved to Jacksonville 10 months ago and shared why he’s grateful for opportunities like the 904 Pop Up.
“They allow us to advertise our business,” Cordeiro said. “We come out here. They don’t give us any issues. We’re here just like any other business. We’re helping people. We’re making friends. We’re meeting other vendors.”
When you take a look around, the individuals who make up these small businesses are our neighbors, friends and loved ones. As Braddock puts it, supporting locals has a greater impact than you may think.
“The 904 Pop Up is an economic driver,” Braddock said. “Not only for the small businesses here but for the city of Jacksonville Beach.”
The next 904 Pop Up is June 26 at Jax Beach’s Seawalk Pavilion. CLICK HERE to learn more.
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