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Since arriving in D.C. I’ve noticed that pop-up markets touting local artisans are de rigueur. I’m not sure if it’s a trend or just a part of the culture. In any case, I like it. When I read that indie retailer, Nana, would be holding a handmade valentine mart Saturday, I was eager to explore.

The mart was held from noon to 6 p.m. and featured multiple vendors, refreshments and entertainment. I stepped off the Circulator in Mount Pleasant and entered the brightly lit and buzzing store where I found little girls were creating their own valentines from patterned paper and folk musician Renè Moffatt serenading shoppers.

Jackie Flanagan, the founder of Nana and organizer of the mart, walked up to welcome me explaining that there were about a dozen or so vendors represented and many present to discuss their wares. Flanagan opened the store on U Street in 2003, playing a large part in the renewal of the neighborhood. While the location has changed, the mission to sell ethically made, vintage and vintage inspired clothing and accessories remained.

As a lover of stationery, I was immediately drawn to a table of cleverly nostalgic cards featuring stamped library cards in their pockets from Craftgasm. Happily the cards occupied the same table as neckware designer John Tome’s beautifully crafted ties and adorable baby t-shirts with ties sewn onto them.

I was prompted to try on the hybrid cape and scarf made by Jennifer Elizabeth Miller of the JEM Collection. The royal blue and black plaid fleece was fashioned with pockets and could be worn at least four different ways. She also had an array of fetching infinity scarves for sale.

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My last stop was at another table filled with Craftgasm’s witty wares. I couldn’t resist the ink drawing of a squirrel holding an acorn on neon pink paper. Senor Squirrel as he’s called is a collaboration between Melissa Esposito of the aforementioned brand and a fellow crafter/Etsy maven, Bethany O’Hara-Na of Tea Olive.

As I checked out, I chatted with Flanagan a little more. I explained to her that I was new to town. Between her friendly demeanor and the creativity of the event, I look forward for more visits to Nana. I did spot a lovely black vintage coat with a fur collar that may pull me back as soon as next weekend.