• By Todd Luck
• Posted Tuesday, April 30, 2019

Southern Charm Brings Artisans and Shoppers to Tanglewood

Southern Charm at the Farm once again brought thousands of shoppers to Tanglewood Park for one of the largest vintage and artisan shows in the Southeast.

The April 27th show featured 300 vendors, 12 food trucks and live bluegrass music from The Kollards. Around 7,000 shoppers attended the show. Some came with highlighted maps to find their favorite vendors, while others want to explore every booth.

The show’s founder, Allison Dahl, said she began Southern Charm to fill a need.

“There was a lack of available space for people who made things to sell their things,” said Dahl. “So we created this show and it’s just growing and growing,”

The show started in 2015 with 75 vendors and two food trucks at a now defunct bed and breakfast in Walnut Cove and then moved to Willstella Farm in Kernersville. In 2017, the show found its home at Tanglewood.

“The staff at Tanglewood is amazing,” said Dahl. “They will go above and beyond anything that we need. They’re here before the sun is up. They’re the last ones to leave.”

At Tanglewood, Southern Charm has ample free parking available. The show is held in a large, flat grassy area that’s accessible to everyone. County EMS (Emergency Medical Services) is on hand if the need arises and the Sheriff’s Office provides round-the-clock security. Sheriff's deputies also direct the massive amount of traffic the show generates. Tanglewood is home to large events like the North Carolina Wine Festival and the Festival of Lights, so park staff are veterans at coordinating events that bring in high volumes of traffic and attendees.

Vendors at the show are required to showcase handcrafted or true vintage/antique items. Some of the wares that were sold included furniture, jewelry, clothing, leather work, accessories, candles, home decor, pet items and metal work. Dahl said Southern Charm’s vendors continue to be one big family that values community over competition.

Planning has already begun on the next show, which will be held rain or shine on Oct. 12 at Tanglewood Park.