Hidden Gem is a beautifully curated local design and gift store in the heart of Southampton. They feature products individually made by local artisans as well as handmade products from around the world.
Owners Tanya Willock and Temidra Willock-Morsch were both born and raised in the Hamptons, but they wanted to bring their Antiguan heritage to the East End. With Tanya’s artwork and Temidra’s textiles, a special mixture of bright colors can be found at Hidden Gem. The brand carries decorative home goods, handmade pottery, rugs, local art, jewelry, kitchen items, and so much more.
In addition to their physical retail location, Hidden Gem participates in craft fairs on the East End, one of which will be their appearance at the upcoming Maker’s Market at The Church in Sag Harbor. The second annual Maker’s Market will be held on Saturday, December 10th and Sunday, December 11th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Hidden Gem is one of 26 talented local makers and artisans that will be in attendance. Tanya and Temidra spoke more about their brand, how the holidays impact their work, and what they’re most looking forward to about the upcoming market.
What is the Hidden Gem brand all about?
Tanya: Hidden Gem has really become a reflection of our creativity, passion, and love for colors, patterns, and textures. We wanted our brand to be a creative place that allows people to experience different creations and techniques from local and global artisans all over the world, all while keeping true to our personal style and aesthetic and Caribbean culture.
How do the holidays impact your creations?
Temidra: The Holidays have always been one of the best times for us to get creative with new products! We both love the Holiday season, entertaining, and gifting presents. So, our products are inspired by the gifts we want to make for family and friends.
Tanya: One thing we love doing during the holiday season is gift wrapping, and we wanted to bring that fun into products we can share with the community. This year we made hand-dyed silk ribbons which are gorgeous and the perfect special touch to add to your gift wrapping.
How did you get started with this business? When did you decide to start it?
Tanya: We have wanted to start a business together since we were young. Our grandmother introduced us to the concept of entrepreneurship from a very early age—we would help her crochet and knit so we could sell our creations in our front yard. We opened our business in 2019. As adults, Temidra and I were both in similar stages of our lives, trying to figure out the next step in our careers. While talking to our friends from design school, we realized we were all struggling with finding a space to showcase our work and talents. So that’s what really kicked us into gear to make our dream shop and business a reality.
How much does the east end of Long Island influence your art? Do you ever create pieces with a specific location in mind?
Temidra: Our brand is really a combination of inspiration of the Hamptons and our Antiguan heritage. We really wanted to blend these two coastal environments to bring our unique take and aesthetic to the brand.
What’s unique about craft fair events that you don’t otherwise get to experience in your business?
Temidra: We do have a physical shop in Southampton, but when we participate in craft fairs, it feels very authentic to the brand and how we got started. There is something also very special about having a group of people in the same location, all on the hunt for unique finds, and are interested in the creations you’re selling.
What are you most looking forward to about the Maker’s Market at The Church?
Tanya: It’s always nice to get a change of space, and we love getting to meet other creatives and small business owners. It’s also a great opportunity for those who can’t make it out to Southampton to get a closer look at our creations and we can share more of our story.
To learn more about Hidden Gem and check out what they have to offer, visit https://www.hiddengemny.com.
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