Love at the Market: Meet the Couples Behind the Counters
In2Homewares – Lucy & Tony
Lucy and Tony met over 40 years ago, back when they were 16 and 17 years old. They’ve worked together at the Market for 18 years, and their son Aiden now joins them most days. Tony says he loves working with Lucy because they make such a great team, he affectionately calls her his “right arm.”
In2Homewares sits proudly in Centre Aisle, a true Market icon often photographed for its beautifully curated range. Lucy and Tony stock an exquisite selection of vases, plates, lamps, ceramics, clocks, mirrors and coasters - be sure to check out their Made in Japan range the next time you're at the Market!
Akana – Serenay & Can
Serenay and Can met in Turkey while working together nearly 10 years ago, and they’ve been a team ever since. They’ve been part of the South Melbourne Market family for six years and say they complement each other perfectly, making working together something they genuinely enjoy.
At Akana, Serenay and Can pour their shared passion for craftsmanship into every handmade leather shoe. Drawing on centuries-old techniques, they focus on comfort, quality and timeless design. Find them in the SO:ME Space and see for yourself.
Golden Dragon Asian Grocery – Adelia & Eduardo
Adelia and Eduardo have been together for an incredible 46 years, marrying in the late 1970s. They’ve spent the last 26 years working side by side at the Market, nearly every single day. Eduardo still drives Adelia in to work each morning, a small ritual that reflects their steady partnership.
Together they run Golden Dragon Asian Grocery in Aisle B, a proud family-owned business that not only boasts an impressive range of both popular and hard to find Asian groceries but also provides expert friendly advice on recipes and food preparation.
My Cookie Factory – Natasha & Juan
Natasha and Juan first met in Georgia, USA, where Natasha was running a donut and ice‑cream shop called Scream’n Nuts. Juan came in to visit a friend who worked there, they instantly hit it off… and he never left! Nine years later, they’ve built a life together in Australia with their 4‑year‑old daughter, Mila. Mila loves helping out in their cookie stall whenever she can. Her favourite cookie is anything with sprinkles.
My Cookie Factory make the most delicious New York style jumbo cookies, all handmade onsite. Think gooey centers and crispy edges in delectable flavours. Find them in Aisle D.