Big Manx Feast proves a showcase for Isle of Man businesses

Noble’s Park became home to more than 60 island businesses and vendors at the weekend as the inaugural Big Manx Feast took place.

The site was packed with something different around every corner, from live cooking demonstrations and free tasters to fresh pies, pastries and a wide range of Manx produce.

Media Isle of Man caught up with some of the vendors taking part to find out why events like the Big Manx Feast are so important to businesses.

A good old family affair was taking place at the Wham Bam Lamb stall, with Andy Cooper joined by his wife Katie and daughter Violet for the day.

Andy said the event provided an important opportunity for producers to put their products directly in front of a large audience.

He said: ‘It's a fantastic showcase because without these events and the agricultural shows in the summer, we wouldn't have a way to reach a mass local audience.

‘And it's all great paying for adverts on social media, but we love to put our products right in front of people and give them tasters and give them samples so we can see what they're buying.’

For others, taking part in the event was a last-minute opportunity.

Geraldine Sowrey, owner of Nest Studio, which sells bags, clothing and seasonal décor, secured her place at the festival shortly before the event.

Although her business does not focus on food and drink, it did not stop her stall from attracting plenty of attention, with visitors admiring her colourful designs.

Geraldine said: ‘I was a last-minute entry, but I'm really glad that I came.

‘It feels amazing to be surrounded by fellow Manx producers. It's great to reach people that wouldn't normally see the products because I'm mainly based online and Instagram's my biggest marketing tool, and so that obviously just reaches a certain sector.’

Even Noel Edmonds stopped by the Nest Studio stall during the event and was spotted sporting one of Geraldine's popular lobster bags.