The Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market, Hosted by the Iowa State Pappajohn Center, Delivers an Unforgettable Evening, Showcasing Student Entrepreneurship and Holiday Cheer
AMES, IA – In an incredible debut, the first Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market, hosted under the captivating big top on central campus, created an atmosphere full of holiday cheer as the event unfolded on Friday, December 1.
As visitors strolled through campus, the vibrant red banner of the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship, surrounded by glowing holiday trees, drew over 1400 attendees inside. The event kicked off at 3:30, but by 3:15, a line had formed full of students, faculty, and community members, drawn in by holiday music and the smell of fresh-baked treats. Within 10 minutes, 100 Jingle & Mingle-themed totes were given away to event attendees.
The Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market, coordinated by the Iowa State University Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship, hosted 26 student and alumni vendors who showcased a wide variety of holiday gift items. From freeze-dried candy and freshly baked potica bread to vintage clothing, and 3D-printed games, there was something for everyone. In collaboration with Ames Middle School, the Pappajohn Center team invited one eighth-grade student to sell her handmade stickers and stationery at the market.
Many of the vendors had previously participated in Pappajohn Center programs such as CYstarters and campus-wide pitch competitions, while others joined from Innovate 1858; a retail entrepreneurship learning lab located in the Iowa State Student Innovation Center. Innovate 1858 is run by undergraduate students and features items crafted by students and alumni.
The event not only ushered in the holiday season but provided a platform for Iowa State students to promote their businesses, network with the community, and sell their products. Attendees were provided the opportunity to support local, student-run businesses, and get a jump start on their holiday shopping.
Katelyn Lenz, an entrepreneurship major and founder of Amero Bakery, shared her enthusiasm, saying, “The market helped me connect with other Iowa State student entrepreneurs and make many new customer connections. I had no idea how big and impactful the entrepreneurship community was here at Iowa State until this event!”
Many of the vendors reported doubling or tripling their sales compared to other markets. Attendee Meredith McClure, a Veterinary Medicine student, shared her experience, saying, “It’s amazing to see how many students are starting businesses here at Iowa State. I loved being able to support student entrepreneurs while getting into the Christmas spirit!”
Megan Graettinger, Assistant Director of the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship, was thrilled with the turnout. “What made this market different, and such a success, was the students and alumni bringing their own ideas, handmade products, and unique businesses to the table. They’re all genuinely passionate about what they are selling, and that always helps to draw in customers.”
The Jingle & Mingle Holiday Market was a campus-wide success, creating a festive evening for both vendors and attendees alike. Thank you to everyone who attended the event and supported the students and their businesses.
Head to isupjcenter.org to learn more about the Iowa State University Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship.