Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Rodriguez.
Hi Sarah, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Our county didn’t have a farmers market and there was an interest among a group of us to have one. I did the leg work to find out all the rules and here we are.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There’s been a lot of steps to take but it’s been educational. Who knew there were so many rules and laws to setting up a farmers market
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Personally, I am a mother and a Homesteader. That is the part where the market became of interest to have. There are a lot of small businesses in our county and it’s hard to see that. We created a geoup of market board members and started spreading the word that a market was in the works. We wanted to showcase all of the talent that our county has. Our market allows for any Farm products, small livestock, handmade arts and crafts, baked goods, local raised meats, jellies, syrup, eggs, honey, and plants. There are certain laws in place that we must adhere to but we have a nice variety. We offer a community table for information to be shared and free fundraising for any groups in our county. This year we are doing two kid entrepreneur days to showcase how awesome our youth is, this is free for all of the kids to do on these days. We are also planning to have some classes taught by the vendors to the public during the market. At least once a month we are planning kids day activities where the kids can come learn, play, and meet others while their parents shop. These are usually sponsored by someone in the community and they actually do the stuff. Examples are our extension and 4-H office does STEM projects for them, the health department does an educational activity, individual groups and churches can do face painting or whatever. It is a fun event to attend and we run every Saturday from 9 to 1 from May 3 to October 4 this year.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Getting our talents out there. It’s a difficult process to have your small business seen and heard. This is a way to showcase that. It’s a good feeling when you see the interaction between the community members and the vendors.
Contact Info:
- Website: Farmersmarketvc@gmail.com
- Facebook: Vinton County Farmers Market
