Farmers' Markets - who doesn't love them?

 

Farmers' Markets are a great way to promote "community" and "connectivity" in both small towns and neighborhoods in large cities.  Anyone who has a hobby, makes arts and/or crafts, bakes, cans, grows plants or cut flowers can explore the possibilities in their own location.  Woodworkers, metalworkers, seamstresses, jewelry makers, the list is seemingly endless!  If you make it, someone wants to buy it!

In these days of Covid, inflation and rising costs, or loneliness brought on by people staying home more, these markets are a great way of getting out and meeting neighbors and making new friends.  Take your dog along (as long as you take something to clean up with in case of "accidents"!), take your toddlers in strollers, and once I even saw a man with a hooded falcon on a restraint, on his arm!!   He explained he was getting the bird accustomed to sounds and being in public places - he didn't remove the hood or let him fly!!!!   

A lot of people are setting up websites or advertising their products on social media for online ordering and specified pickup points/times; this is certainly one way to market their hobbies/businesses, but there can't be anything better than meeting "customers" face to face, exchanging ideas, recipes, etc.  

Depending on your location, it is fairly easy to secure a spot at a market.  States, counties, municipalities all have their own requirements regarding what may or may not be offered for sale, especially when it comes to food - it is always good to have a Food Safety Certification certificate showing you have taken a course whether it is required or not; some counties/locations require "commercial kitchens", which can be inspected by a State official at any time;  some locations require the use of canopies (to make the market look nice and uniform); some require the use of weights on the canopy legs to hold it down in case of gusts of high winds!  Flying canopies have been known to cause much damage to people, product and property!!

So, how do you start? 

1.  Locate a market(s).  Ascertain the rules/regulations/requirements for the space, including fee and permits if required.  Also ask where you can park/unload - some markets are located in tight spaces where you will need a wagon to transport your product/equipment from the parking space to the market space!!!  

2.  Start making your product.  

3.  Keep meticulous records of expenses & income - for local/state/IRS purposes (as required). Some markets require proof of an EIN for sellers.  

4.  Purchase Canopy, table, chairs, table cover, display mechanisms.   Determine how much cash you need for change at your first market.  Purchase credit card "thing" to accept cards if you want.  Purchase paper or plastic bags for your product as necessary.  

5.  Decide on pricing and how you want to advertise your presence/product, including making business cards to hand out to customers or making flyers for local merchants to display.  

6.  Show up on time - don't be late, and don't leave early unless you are completely sold out!!!!