The Fresh Loaf

A Community of Amateur Bakers and Artisan Bread Enthusiasts.

Farmer's Market Set-Up

BlueBread's picture
BlueBread

Farmer's Market Set-Up

Hey Everyone,

Question for you:  I was recently asked to participate in a local farmer's market and wanted to ask the community for advice on essential set up materials for my booth.  Outside of a table, a pop-up tent, and a POS are there some must have items you've found that make selling easier?

Also my main question is how I should bring the loaves.  Should I bring them already packaged and have a few loaves in a display case or should I bring everything in a prep bin and bag them on-site?  I'm thinking pre-packaged would be easy-peasy but if I have a slow market I've wasted bags, ink, staples etc and maybe folks might want to select the ear that speaks to them? 

I don't want to reinvent the wheel here so any suggestions on to how best run an efficient set up would be much appreciated.   

Thanks so much!

bonnibakes's picture
bonnibakes

Even then I had everything individually wrapped in plastic so people could pick up and touch an item even if they didn't wind up buying it. Cookies & small items were packaged in cello bags with ribbons. Make sure you follow the state requirement for how/what to put on your labels. Under Covid conditions I'd check and see what that particular farmers market requires. If they allow samples (maybe sealed beforehand in a small plastic bag) those always garnered sales depending on the quality of your goods. For example in NYC now the seller is the only one who can handle merchandise; the customer verbally selects, you place it in a bag and hand it to them. Many sales are done via apps but if you're taking cash make sure to bring A LOT of small bills & coins. You can always save leftovers for the next market. Surprising how many people want to buy a cookie with a $20 bill. A comfortable chair that you can rise out of easily & quickly is a must. Music might be nice if allowed. Have lots of literature (cards, flyers, etc) for folks to take with your contact information or website on it. A list of your items for sale/prices can't hurt in case someone wants to place an order after the market closes. Something that makes your booth stand out visibly draws people to you. Put together a little kit with tape, scissor, paper, markers, etc or whatever; you might need to suddenly fix something or add something. Be prepared. And if things are slow, something to read. Have fun & good luck!!

BlueBread's picture
BlueBread

Hi bonnibakes,

Thanks, for all the great info.  I really appreciate it.  Definitely going to find myself a good chair!