One of our favorite indie markets is stepping up big time for the community with its latest event. Saturday Shoppes announced its first-ever Celebrity Golf Tournament, taking place Friday, April 5 at Mangrove Bay Golf Course.

Presented in conjunction with the Tampa Bay Rays and Tampa Bay Rowdies (with a big assist from the City of St. Pete, as well), the inaugural tourney is more than just a chance to mingle with celebs. It’s an opportunity to help support minority and women-owned throughout St. Pete and Pinellas County.

The ultimate goal for Saturday Shoppes is to establish a retail location and develop an e-commerce website that showcases local entrepreneurs in need of exposure and hungry for the opportunity to showcase what they can do. In supporting minority and woman entrepreneurs, Saturday Shoppes hopes to foster capacity building and create a dynamic economic impact for local businesses in St. Pete.

Registration for the Celebrity Golf Tournament is open now, and sponsorship opportunities are also available here. All participants receive a complimentary swag bag and lunch at Mangrove Bay.

Celebrities in the tournament include former undisputed World Champion boxer Winky Wright, and St. Pete native Louis Murphy, a 2X National Champion at the University of Florida and 9-year NFL veteran (including a successful stint with the Bucs).

Proceeds from this event will go towards supporting minority and women-owned entrepreneurs to move from “hustle” to business in St. Pete. The day kicks off at 7 am with registration, breakfast, and a chance to explore a custom-designed pro shop for gift shopping. As you head to the carts, you’ll receive a brief yet inspiring update on the Saturday Shoppes. The shotgun start is scheduled for 8, with on-course beverages and delectable bites from local vendors and food truck owners.

Saturday Shoppes provides opportunity for emerging small businesses

Renee Edwards is the brains behind the Saturday Shoppes operation. The goal of the event has always been to create economic development opportunities for emerging businesses through these fast growing monthly markets. Edwards has also founded the Saturday Morning Shoppe Academy to provide business coaching, business etiquette, resources, marketing, and licensure that would allow hobby vendors to grow their business and income.

Using her knowledge and platform, Edwards is able to assist nearly 150 businesses every month by connecting incredible makers and owners to the community they serve.

Upcoming Saturday Shoppes events after this one include the Soul Fest on April 6, the Blue Crab & R&B Festival on June 1, and the Freedom Fest on June 15.