Why we do what we do

At our core, the goal has always been to uplift and support marginalized community members in a fun, proactive, ethical way by activating the community and encouraging supporting local art and vendors.

“Wonderz became a solution to a problem I experienced firsthand growing up as a mixed-race gay person in Whatcom County. I longed for a space where I felt comfortable being myself; a place that celebrated excellent craftsmanship, highlighted the incredible variety of local artisans in our area, and welcomed people of all identities and expressions. Growing up in a community that did not reflect my lived experience, I was taught how important true acceptance is, something I didn’t always feel, and what it means to create spaces where people actually feel safe to come exactly as they are.” - Elijah Ryan, Owner and Operator

  • “Thrifted Wonderz began in 2020 as a simple Depop shop I started to help make ends meet. After discovering art markets and vintage events in the summer of 2021, it quickly evolved into a full-time operation sourcing and selling vintage clothing throughout Seattle and Portland. The first events I participated in locally were Birdhouse Art Market and the Commercial Street Block Party. Seeing how deeply the Bellingham community supported local artists and curators inspired me to create Wonderz Market in February 2023. After building a strong and expansive network of vendors across the region, I wanted to create a platform that brought everyone together in a meaningful way.”

  • “As Wonderz Market has grown, organizing these events has become my main focus. What started with around 20 vendors has expanded into events featuring more than 100 vendors along Commercial Street, as well as collaborations and activations with Fiamma Burger, Wink Wink Boutique, Celene Shop, La Palma E Coco, and The Blue Room. At Wonderz Market events, you can expect one-of-a-kind vintage clothing, housewares, trinkets, stained glass, fiber art, patches, prints, tattoos, tooth gems, piercings, permanent jewelry, and so much more.”

  • “While Wonderz Market is not exclusively queer, we intentionally highlight vendors from diverse backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on supporting marginalized members of the Pacific Northwest vendor community.”