Jax Perez will continue to have her front yard markets, locals can stay up to date through her Instagram @j.axsnaxx.
Local business owner of “Jax Snax,” Jacquelyn Perez, introduces her front yard markets to El Paso by selling her homemade baked goods. Front yard markets are unique, creating a welcoming and cozy environment for customers, strengthening the El Paso community.
“I wanted to create a different environment than we’ve seen before,” Perez said.
Perez’s front yard markets started in August and were inspired by her business mission, which is for everyone to be included and accepted. Inspired by Cati, her six-year-old cousin with down syndrome, Perez started the “Ohana Club” at Eastwood High School in 2020, which focused on inclusivity and making others build strong friendships that felt like family.
After graduating high school, Perez wanted to continue spreading the kindness beyond the walls of the school and into the community by creating Jax Snax which offers inclusive environments for all at her markets and summer camp.
Hosting markets in her front yard offers a different level of comfort from other markets by providing a convenient distance from those that visit.
“The neighborhood is what makes the event much more welcoming. My neighborhood is very cozy,” Perez said. “We have a lot of older folks living here, and they really like to take care of their front yards. My neighborhood has always felt [like] home to me, and I’d like to share that same experience with others.”
Perez hopes customers feel the excitement of going to the markets, creating the best experience for everyone, including other local vendors. Perez has not only grown her own business but has helped other local businesses grow theirs as well.
“A feeling that makes hosting worth it is [other] vendors selling out of their items,” Perez said. “I felt very happy that others were able to have an opportunity to sell the stuff they feel passionate about and stuff they created with their own hands.”
Support from the El Paso community is what helps fuel the front yard markets.
“What makes me want to keep doing the front yard markets is for sure the support from the El Paso community. I received a lot of love and support from the city, and it makes me want to keep going,” Perez said.
What Perez hopes others take away from her front yard markets is the mission statement of “Jax Snax.” Feeling like you belong somewhere and having a comfortable place for everyone to go.
Perez will continue to have her front yard markets in the upcoming months. Locals can stay up to date with more upcoming events through her Instagram @j.axsnaxx.
Ashley Alvarado is a contributor writer and may be reached at [email protected]