New Vendors Make a Splash at Columbus Market Despite Rain

The Columbus Market buzzed with activity on Saturday, bringing together a diverse array of vendors at 40 Courthouse Square, despite challenging weather conditions. Among the new participants was Top Tier Fabrication, a company founded by local entrepreneurs Ty and Cassandra Townsend, which specializes in decorative metal decor.

Local Entrepreneurs Find New Home

Having called Columbus home for the past three years, the Townsends relocated their shop from Hendersonville following extensive flooding caused by a hurricane. “The shop got flooded about three feet,” Ty explained. “We found a spot on Industrial Park Drive, just three minutes from our house, and we’ve been down here since October 2022.”

Top Tier Fabrication functions primarily as a fabrication support shop, catering to clients who install or build structures. “We work with structural steel, creating floating staircases, mezzanines, handrails, and a variety of other construction needs,” Ty stated. “We also produce decorative items like garden spinners and house numbers.”

Engaging with the Community

Recognizing an opportunity to engage more actively with the local community, the Townsends began creating items for local markets during their downtime. Cassandra, who previously served as the apprenticeship coordinator at Blue Ridge Community College, decided to join the family business full-time after realizing their capacity for crafting unique art pieces. “We wanted to make something while we’re not fulfilling orders and start attending markets to let people know we’re here,” she said.

The couple appreciates the creative freedom that comes with crafting decorative pieces, noting that there are no strict guidelines. “I might feel inspired to make a horse today or a hummingbird spinner tomorrow,” Ty remarked. Cassandra added, “It’s a great way to get involved in the community and share what we do.”

They noted a strong sense of community among vendors and residents at the market. “Everyone at the Columbus Market is supportive, and there are so many talents and resources in the area. It’s a great place to showcase yourself,” Cassandra said.

For those interested in learning more about local offerings, additional information is available at the Polk County Farmers Markets website: polkcountyfarms.org.