MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Wednesday’s farmers market had all the usual vendors, craft jewelry, frame photos, handmade artwork, and, of course, produce.
“Laura at Full Plate Farm over here had all my vegetables I need for the week,” Said regular market shopper, Jennifer McCarthy.
The Farmers Market has proven to be a wonderful incubator for small ventures of all types. Alec Houston, owner of Cutthroat Kids Apparel, says it’s a great way to start.
“As a somewhat newer business. We are actively growing. The farmers markets were a great start, as well, great to continue the cash flow that we need now, just getting brand awareness, business awareness, out, and as well as just overall foot traffic,” said Houston.
The advantages are clear, no structure to buy or rent, low overhead, high visibility, and a parade of customers
“Starting out every other weekend at the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market on Saturdays. And then we kind of progressed from there. And as my work progressed, it’s always nice to have a home base with the farmers market,” said Shantina Hatfield, owner of Cedar Lane Design.
Another advantage of working the market is the universal support of the community.
“I love supporting local farmers getting the freshest source of fruits and vegetables, organic and without pesticides, and I didn’t travel far to get here.
Well, that’s one of my favorite things to do, is meet new people. Is meet new people no better place than the farmers market. Truthfully,” said Houston.
Don’t wait to check it out. The Wednesday night farmers market closes at the end of August.