At Etsy, we believe in celebrating people for who they truly are—regardless of how they identify, and whom (or what) they love. We’re grateful for the diversity of perspectives and experiences that keeps our community strong and vibrant, and we’re proud to be a place where everyone is accepted and warmly welcomed into the fold. Whether you’re a maker, a collector, or just really into cats, whether you identify as LGBTQ+, as non-binary, or as a jeweler, whoever you are, and whatever you’re into: You belong on Etsy.
Mixed media statement necklace by Baked by Lou, $26
That’s why this Saturday, June 24, we’re proud to be hosting the You Belong Here Etsy pop-up marketplace at Tate Britain’s Queer and Now festival. Kicking off Pride in London, the family-friendly festival will feature wares from 16 UK-based Etsy sellers, in addition to talks, tours, music, and dancing from a host of LGBTQ+ artists. Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy Tate’s landmark exhibition Queer British Art 1861-1967 at a reduced ticket price; the festival itself is free to attend and open to the public.
We asked some of the participating sellers to share their thoughts on Pride and the pop-up.
Rainbow glitter purse by Pup Tart Handmade, from $39
Hannah Frew, Pup Tart Handmade
What motivated you to sell at the pop-up?
Hannah: In a time when the world is becoming a much scarier place it’s amazing to be part of something that represents togetherness and love.
Concrete succulent planter by Hi Cacti, $20
Sabina Palermo, Hi Cacti
What does the theme You Belong Here mean to you?
Sabina: You Belong Here is a beautiful sentiment and is exactly what Pride is about to me: communities and people from all walks of life coming together and welcoming everyone to the party. Especially in our current climate, it’s easy to get caught up in all the negativity and fear, but Pride is about not allowing the past to dictate our futures. You Belong Here is meaningful to me as an Etsy seller because I’ve worked hard to put myself and my work out there, and being invited to such an exciting Etsy showcase at such a fantastic place as the Tate Britain feels like a real achievement.
Make Today Amazing cross stitch kit by The Make Arcade, $13
Ruth Oliver, The Make Arcade
Aside from selling at the pop-up, how else will you be celebrating Pride?
Ruth: I will be embracing my trip to London and will grab the opportunity to visit the Queer British Art exhibition at the Tate—looks like a great show!
Chick’n card by Shoshy Cadoodle, $5
Shoshana Bratton, Shoshy Cadoodle
Why are you excited to be involved with this event?
Shoshana: I was instantly over the moon at the thought of being involved, firstly because the Tate is such an iconic institution—I was lucky enough to grow up with it. School trips to the Tate Modern and the Tate Britain were always highlights of my school years, and as an adult, they continue to consistently provide me with inspiration.
Secondly, I was thrilled about the crossover of two things that I love: Etsy and Pride. As an LGBT person myself, and a person who aims to support other LGBT people through my illustration work, the opportunity could not be more exciting for me. Pride is about embracing who I am, embracing who others are, celebrating diversity and inclusivity, challenging heteronormativity, and having fun while doing all of the above!
Rainbow cat print by I Like Cats, $20
Toby Oliver Dean, I Like Cats
Why does You Belong Here resonate with you personally?
Toby: You Belong Here is such a powerful statement! I’m sure that every person at some point in their life has had moments of insecurity and a feeling of being different, whether it’s because of their sexual orientation or any other reason. When other people stand up and show acceptance, it allows you to feel free to be as you are in the world.
I am so fortunate to live in Brighton, a city where diversity is celebrated and everyone is accepted as they are. I know not everyone is as fortunate as me, so events like You Belong Here are a real demonstration of solidarity, hope, and of course Pride, which is what I’m all about as an Etsy seller.
Written by Katie Hawley
An editor at Etsy. She's also an aspiring weaver, a perpetual snacker, and head-over-heels obsessed with her dog.