The Harvest New England Conference was FANTASTIC!

Yesterday Peggy and Susan drove out to Sturbridge to attend the Harvest New England agricultural conference.  We were overwhelmed by the information available to "Market Masters" and farmers.  The best part was meeting the wonderful people who grow our food and give of their time to bring farmers' markets to their communities.  Everyone was willing to share with us and we were amazed at the number of people who came up to us and said, "You can do it.  Don't be afraid.  You won't fail.  Your market will be great!"  The Editor and Publisher of edible Boston said, "I will visit your market."  

The second best part is that we found out that we have been doing all the right things to prepare for Chelmsford's market.  We came home truly brimming with ideas about how to make the market a great experience for everyone.

Onward and upward!

The Butcher, the Baker, the Candlestick Maker

February is upon us and we are still working on the final application and rules, but we are starting to get calls and messages from interested vendors.  A baker contacted Peggy yesterday and another farmer we didn't know found us and asked how to participate.  Although we don't have anyone yet who sells fresh meat or poultry, we do know of a bee keeper who makes candles and hope we will be able to attract them (see the title of this post!).

Peggy and Susan will be attending a conference in Sturbridge later this month to learn more about running Farmers' Markets.  More on that when we return.