Exhibitor Press Releases

18-year-old Harriett Wilson, from Richmond, is launching her first market stalls this winter, selling handcrafted paper star lanterns. She’s being mentored by Paper Starlights, a Yorkshire-born business that started out on local markets in 1996 and has been a regular at York Christmas Market ever since. Known there for its fair-trade handmade lanterns, Paper Starlights is now helping young people like Harriett follow in its footsteps, keeping Yorkshire’s market heritage alive for a new generation.

“I’ve always wanted to run my own small business, and this has been the perfect opportunity to learn,” says Harriett. “The support I’ve had has been amazing - from learning how to set up a stall to meeting customers and understanding what people love. I can’t wait to bring these beautiful lanterns to local markets this Christmas.”

“Yorkshire’s markets have always been at the heart of our story,” says Andy Jupp, co-founder of Paper Starlights. “We began with stalls at Leeds and York markets, and it feels really special to now be helping young traders like Harriett build their own futures. Market trading is such a powerful way to develop confidence, creativity and community connections.”

Where to Find Harriett

• Tennants Garden Rooms, Leyburn – 28–29 November

• Richmond Station, Richmond – 30 November

• Middleton Tyas Christmas Fair – 4 December

• Darlington Indoor Market – 6–7 December

Visitors will find a handpicked range of handmade paper star lanterns, crafted using traditional techniques and fair-trade materials; perfect for windows, festive displays, or creating that warm winter glow at home.