The farmers market was fully sold out by 10:30. Farmer Ben Nelson joined around 10am, which helped handle customer demand. Duck into Hypno for a coffee and stop by the market stalls for some greens or berries; that was Saturday's MO. For yesterday's market we had signs (designed by Kristin Douglas) along main street and flyers posted throughout Davis, Thomas and the Valley. The Parsons Advocate was also able to get the produce list published in "What's Happening" so that people could plan menus. Locating in different spots on the lot and having conversations about what layouts would work best is helping me sort out details for the parking lot and market stall construction.
By next week we'll have some easel-type sidewalk signs to help out with day-of promotion. The Advocate has suggested a sponsored ad where the area restaurants and other businesses that support having a market can pitch in to run an ad promoting the market (sponsors listed on the ad). Please contact me with any interest in this idea.
This year should prove that there is demand for a market, and that there are farmers and crafters to meet that demand. The demand side has been an object of intuitive belief for me, but it is nice to see real people turning out! In addition, it has been fascinating to learn of the number and quality of small farmers, artists and crafters in the immediate area. For next year we'll try to have a few more participants and make arrangements to consistently feature a musician.
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4 comments:
Sounds great! Photos?
I wonder how far sellers are coming from? I bet there are some around Elkins and even Oakland, MD who would be interested.
Yes, it is a delicate process of building demand while adding farms or crafts. Stemple Farms is coming from Tera Alta. I believe Nelson farm comes from the Harman area. Generally, the closer/more local the better. Oakland has its own very nice market, as does Elkins. The honey bee vendor came from Buchanan but is loathe to repeat the trip very often. While some overlap may occur (eg Wolpertinger BreadShare), the Davis Farmers Market is an opportunity for farmers and crafters within 45 minutes or so.
http://www.localharvest.org/farmers-markets/M2445
http://www.randolphcountygotr.org/farm/
Is there a vendor fee for the market? I have more organic kale than I can eat, for sure! Also got some heirloom tomatoes that should be worth some seed-saving.
There are currently no fees. I just ask that farmers/crafters clear it with me the property owner before participating. Cory that would be great.
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