How To Shop The Farmer’s Market Like A Boss
it’s the weekend which can only mean one thing for a sustainable city dweller, it’s time to hit the farmer’s market. the market is the perfect way to start the weekend. getting a cup of coffee and browsing fresh produce, maybe doing yoga outdoors or meeting a friend there to partake in every city’s crazy tradition of weekend brunch. if you are newer to shopping farmer’s markets or maybe you’re taking the plunge in supporting more local farmer’s and doing more of your shopping at the market outside of buying a crepe and some flowers, you’re going to need a game plan to navigate this bustling landscape. luckily, we’ve got you covered.
No°1 Get Your Ish Together
you don’t want to be that city dweller out here collecting plastic bags from vendors. create your tote kit ahead of time. you can learn how to curate your own shopping kit here. make sure you clean them out each week and have them ready by the door or in the passenger seat of your car so you don’t forget them.
N°2 Make A Shopping List
in order to not get sucked into the farmer’s market experience you need to have a shopping list. we cannot tell you how easy it is to end up purchasing produce because it was so darn pretty, only to get home and have no clue what to do with it. your compost bin will judge you. making a intentional shopping list is the best way to purchase exactly what you need so you know you will cook it before it goes bad. respect your farmer, our resources, the produce and your wallet, and make a friggin’ list!
No°3 Arrive Early
you know the phrase “the early bird gets the worm”? well in this case the one that arrives when the market opens gets all of the duck eggs. the later you arrive at the farmer’s market the less variety you will have and the more you will be distracted by dodging baby strollers and that pair of adorable dogs in matching sweaters. the first hour or two is the best time to go, trust us.
No°4 Take a Breath Before You Enter
the farmer’s market is an amazing city experience, but it will make your anxiety flare up. before you enter take a breath and just go with the flow. we swear by plant people mind + body drops before we begin shopping the market.
No°5 Walk The Market First
even if you’re out here ballin’ the market is for finding the best produce and the best deals. the vendor at the back of the market may have the same produce you’re looking for at a better price. walk the entirety of the market first and keep tabs on any items you plan to purchase. the only time you can break this rule is if the item is selling out fast.
No° 6 Use Your Manners
these farmer’s and volunteers woke up at the crack of dawn to harvest, sort, wash, package, drive, and set-up their tents, rain, shine, or wind (i see you Chicago) to offer you freshly grown produce. give them the respect they deserve. say hello, ask them how their day is going, yeah its busy, do it anyway and don’t forget the thank you and have a great day. hospitality goes both ways.
No°7 Ask Questions
we all are still learning when it comes to sustainable farming, identifying produce or finding new ideas on how to cook with them. your local farmer is more than willing to help you out. so speak up and be curious (don’t forget to consult your seasonal field guide as well for tips on your local produce and recipe ideas).
No°8 Deny The Plastic Bags and Give The Farmer The Extras
you will be offered plastic bags, tell them no. you may feel awkward doing it, do it anyway. saying no is a practice and what’s the point of taking that plastic bag when you are just going to throw it out when you get home (note: storing food in plastic only makes it rot quicker). plus you already brought your shopping kit, right? if the farmer has their produce in a carton or tied with a rubber band return it to them, most likely they will reuse them.
No°9 Get Some Breakfast, You Earned It
our favorite farmer’s markets place the food vendors at the end. once your shopping is complete grab a crepe, a taco, a pizza, it’s dealers choice and you earned it.
