The entrepreneurial spirit of about 20 kids in Big Brothers Big Sisters program was brought to life at the Children’s Business Fair. The annual event offers matches and kids on the waitlist an opportunity to create their own business idea and sell items to the public. This year’s products included baked goods, homemade art, soap bars, candy jars and face painting.

Here, three vendors share their experience of participating in the business fair:

Big Sister: Jamie
Little Sister: Leilani
Product: Homemade arts and crafts

While Jamie and Leilani have only been matched for eight months, they’ve already forged a close bond over their shared love of crafting. Naturally, when the pair heard about the business fair, they had no trouble figuring out what to sell. Their booth, “The Little Big Shoppe,” proved to be a hit with buyers and was named “Best Overall” vendor.

“Leilani was very passionate about making sure our customers also became our friends, and that’s exactly why she will make an incredible business woman one day,” Jamie said. “As long as you’re expressing your talent and showing the world what you can do, you can’t go wrong.”

Big Couple: Marcy and Keith
Little Brother: Nicolas
Product: Decorated jars of candy

Big Couple Marcy and Keith decided to participate because they felt it would be a good learning experience for their Little Brother, Nicolas. The trio spent an afternoon at the park decorating glass jars and filling them with sugary treats in preparation for the event. By the end of the fair, Nicolas had earned more than $50, thanks in large part to their extensive prep work.

“Nicolas is an incredibly smart kid for his age. He is always asking us questions and wanting to learn about new things,” Keith said. “It’s been a fun experience for all three of us.”

Big Brother: Sergio
Little Brother: Eduardo
Product: Handmade artisan pottery

Sergio wanted to help his Little Brother, Eduardo, raise money for a school trip next year. He also thought it was a great way for Eduardo to learn how businesses work. Eduardo’s mother worked alongside her son to craft several dozen colorful pottery pieces.

“Eduardo’s face lit up every time he explained how each item was made and the thought behind their creation,” Sergio said. “That was definitely the most memorable part of the day for me.”