Doug explained to his wife Daniella, “I’ve done something exciting. For both of us!” After many years of marriage, Daniella’s antenna twitched, “What have you done?” Doug then admitted that he had bought thousands of Acacia wooden dishes. And now after five years of selling at market stalls across the West Coast, the pair, who live near Caldas da Rainha, are adding “market organisers” to their already diverse work portfolio.

Having lived internationally before settling in Portugal, they both love the atmosphere and sense of community at the markets. “We have met such an amazing and diverse group of people along our journey,” says Swiss-Brazilian national Daniella. The markets also provide Doug, an author, with an additional outlet for his books, while Daniella receives numerous enquiries about her “Barista For The Day” workshops.

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The creative couple have now decided to turn from poacher to game-keeper by leading one of the newest events on the local craft market calendar. Daniella says, “We had the chance to take over the summer markets being held at the Prohibition Bar in Óbidos, and with our many years of experience as vendors, we leapt at the opportunity.”

Prohibition Bar is a true community-backed business, with over 70 locals owning a slice of the live music and events venue that nestles against the town’s 15th century aqueduct. Daniella says, “We love being part of the bar ownership group, and having the markets here has been a lovely way to get more involved with other creators in the area. Our next market, on July 19, takes place on the opening weekend of the world-famous Medieval Festival, so we are excited to be putting on an event to be proud of. As well as a variety of hand-crafted homeware, jewellery and food stalls, there will be a kids’ corner and live music….and of course we’re encouraging everyone to wear their best Medieval dress.”

Over 20 stalls are expected to attend the next Prohibition Market, at the Prohibition Bar on the N8 in Óbidos, on Saturday July 19. Free to enter and next to a large free carpark, the event runs 11am to 6pm. For more information for shoppers or to rent a stall space, search Facebook or Instagram for Prohibition Bar Óbidos.