Entrepreneur Felica DeRoza got a chance to sell her body-care products at a popular vendor market in Brooklyn, New York, with the help of Bermuda Economic Development Corporation.

Ms DeRoza, owner of Butterfli, a brand of Bermuda-produced soaps, body creams and lotions, sold her wares at The Reserve last month.

Described as a multi-sensory shopping and networking experience, the market aims to stimulate business growth and provide a fun, inspiring and interactive experience for guests.

Set up as a way for millennial consumers to engage with new brands, as well as the entrepreneurs behind those products and services, it attracts the attention of some of the Big Apple’s biggest influencers and trendsetters.

According to Erica Smith, the executive director of the BEDC, one of the organisation’s main goals is to create international opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

“We are always looking to provide opportunities for local business owners to grow and thrive,” said Ms Smith. “In this case, we were hoping to bring at least one entrepreneur or vendor with us to New York, to gain greater overseas exposure and show off their Bermuda-branded products to a wider audience.

“The trip was planned with short notice, but we reached out to Felica DeRoza, who has gained a steady following for her handmade soaps and other products utilising Bermuda-based ingredients.”

She was excited to take part in The Reserve, a vendor market set in an eclectic co-working space in Brooklyn Commons, hosted by Driven Society. It was a chance for BEDC, as well as Felica, to engage with a dynamic community of influencers, as well as network with entrepreneurs from around New York City.”

The Reserve allows patrons to browse through booths selling jewellery, clothing, candles, haircare products and other wares, while they also enjoy features such as an open bar, facial and mini-massage stations, as well as a “Selfie-Cam”.