We are looking forward to the farmers' market on Saturday. I've been leaflet-ing for the market in Tadworth today and tonight I'm shattered. It's amazing how long it takes and how much walking there is involved in even just a few roads. Postmen must be fit!
I met quite a few people on their drives and it was really nice that they all said positive things about the market - 'that's a good idea' etc. One lady introduced me to her little german shepherd puppy and then offered to hand some leaflets around her friends.
We are having to find new ways of advertising the market, after Reigate & Banstead council fined us for putting signs up on the roadside! Thanks to all our supporters who put up banners, posters etc. The help and enthusiasm is really appreciated. Any other suggestions on advertising, getting the word around etc. would be gratefully received.
We think that Shabden farmers' market is quite unusual in Surrey, being on the farm itself. We have farm animals to look at every month and all of the produce is made or caught or reared by the people on the stall. This is very important to us, to keep the market 'producer-only', and it ensures the authenticity of the market. The phrase 'farmers markets' is rather overused these days, and can mean anything from a school fair to a craft market. We've taken our farm-reared meat to farmers markets and felt completely out of place amongst the crystals and flowerpots.
Of course, we actually really enjoy hosting the farmers market too. Mark and I genuinely love meeting people and talking about what we do, and we love being able to hold the market at our farm shop. I always spend a fortune because the food is so good!
Right at this moment, I'm thinking about when everyone has packed up and I can enjoy a S&S strawberry tart and a cup of tea (ok maybe that will be a glass of wine!)