I planted A LOT of butternut and spaghetti squash seeds, thinking that my 3yr would probably help thin out my plants :). Well she hasn't touch them so I should have a ton of squash. My question is, have any of you moms done a local farmers market? Was it worth your time?
Thank you all for your input. Great suggestions. I was hoping I could earn little extra $... I called our local chamber of commerce and got info about the local farmers market. ( Riley - I never thought about licesences or fees!) There's no fees or booths! They are selling out of their vechiles! Its the 2nd year for it in the area. And they are selling out all of produce in less than 2 hours! *grow squash, grow!!!* :)
Oh, and btw, I ALWAYS share. Most of the neighbors in our rural area have gardens but there are a few elderly that don't, so we plant extra for them. A few years ago, my 75 year old neighbor lady canned 18 quarts of tomatoes off of what I gave her. I figure if God wants me to share He will provide fruit and veggies to share. :) lol!
I haven't done a farmers market. But I had a different thought. Why don't you give it away to your neighbors with one or two of your favorite recipes attatched? You could have your daughter go with you to pass out the goods, I'm sure she would enjoy giving away your bounty!
I have for other things. In our area the local stand is about $30 a day... but the big markets start at around $175 a day. So regardless of where... one DOES have to pay. So you need to make sure that you'd at least break even. Some markets provide stalls, others you have to bring you own. Signing up is super easy... you just contact the market and rent a booth or booth space. Prior to renting you can ask them for all of their info / rules. Some you also need a business licence (which in our area ranges from $25-$100 dollars depending on what you're selling)... and you also have to pay taxes on what you sell. So it can get a LITTLE complicated and a little pricey for a one time thing.
Some people in our area just set up a small little stand at the end of the driveway and put out a money box, it's an honor system. You also may want to donate to a local food bank, soup kitchen, or shelter.
I don't have an idea...I just wish that I lived closer. We LOVE butternut and spaghetti squash. The FMs in Houston do very well and I love getting local produce.
