Love Park Will Host Now + Then Marketplace’s ‘Make Love Market’ With Local Vendors, Free Tinder Profile Reviews, Treats, & More
Philadelphia’s beloved pop-up shopping collective Now + Then Marketplace is returning with one of its most anticipated seasonal events: the Make Love Market—a heart-forward, community-centered gathering celebrating local makers, artists, and small businesses just in time for Valentine’s season.
Founded in 2021 by local event producer Steph Irwin, Now + Then Marketplace was born from Irwin’s experience helping launch Philly vintage staple Thunderbird Salvage. What began as a small, thoughtfully curated market has since grown into a citywide movement, with monthly events popping up everywhere from Fishtown to Eakins Oval. At its core, Now + Then is about more than shopping—it’s about strengthening the local economy and encouraging more sustainable, community-based consumption.
The Make Love Market has quickly become one of the brand’s most successful activations. Last year’s event drew more than 700 attendees to the former Visitor Center at Love Park, a space now repurposed as a creative hub featuring Irwin’s immersive light installation. This year marks the third iteration of the Make Love Market, once again coinciding with Valentine’s Day festivities and weddings happening nearby in the park.
Shoppers can expect a playful, love-themed lineup of vendors offering everything from thoughtful gifts to interactive experiences. Highlights include a local caricature artist creating live couple portraits, sweet treats from NiniBsweets, self-love and wellness items from Not a Bad Life, and even Tinder profile reviews from Free Dating Advice Philly—perfect for anyone looking to refresh their dating game.
True to the Now + Then ethos, the Make Love Market is free to attend, dog-friendly, and kid-friendly, making it an easy and welcoming stop for couples, friends, families, and solo shoppers alike. The event blends romance, humor, and creativity while spotlighting the diverse talent that makes Philadelphia’s maker scene thrive.
Whether you’re shopping for a Valentine, celebrating self-love, or simply looking to support local artists in a vibrant, feel-good setting, the Now + Then Make Love Market offers a refreshing alternative to big-box gifting—proving that love, when sourced locally, goes a long way.
