The Farm Wife Sagas

Three years ago, I had a simple idea: to take the little cow pasture beside my family’s small sporting goods store and transform it into something more. A space where people could gather, where small businesses could shine, and where our community could celebrate all it has to offer. I wanted to create a market that wasn’t just about buying and selling, but about connecting. About giving vendors an opportunity to share their craft, and giving our neighbors a chance to experience just how talented and creative not only our small town is, but also the incredible vendors from surrounding areas.

In September 2022, that dream became reality. We kicked things off with 12 vendors, and only 6 were able to stick it out through the entire day. Why? Because it rained. Not just a sprinkle, but steady, constant drizzle that never let up. And yet, even in that weather, more than 600 attendees showed up. Six hundred! People stood under umbrellas, pulled on their boots, and came to support their neighbors. And while the rain tried to dampen the day, it couldn’t dampen the spirit of what we were creating.

Just when I thought 600 people was a lot, the very next market welcomed an average of 1,800 attendees and 85 vendors. From that point on, I realized this little idea had turned into something far bigger than I ever imagined.

Since then, Smalltown Market has continued to grow with two markets each year. More vendors, more attendees, and more energy than I ever dreamed possible. But if I’m being honest, the true measure of success has never been in the numbers. It’s not about how many booths line the pasture or how many cars fill the lot. The heart of this market lies in the people.

It’s in the relationships that have been built between vendors who cheer each other on, lend a hand when needed, or simply swap stories over coffee before the crowds arrive. It’s in the customers who return season after season, bringing their families along and making this market part of their traditions. And it’s in the friendships I’ve been blessed to form through this journey, friendships that have become some of my absolute favorites.

The weather has certainly played its part in shaping our story. We’ve battled rain, mud, and forecasts that left us holding our breath until the very last minute. And yet, every single time, people still come. Vendors still set up, attendees still show up, and community still shows out. That kind of dedication and support proves that Smalltown Market is more than an event. It’s a feeling, a movement, a piece of what makes our little town so special.

In a world where competition often overshadows collaboration, this market has been a constant reminder that community is stronger than rivalry. When vendors share tools, recommend each other’s products, or celebrate each other’s wins, it shows that business doesn’t have to be cutthroat. It can be kind. It can be supportive. It can be something that brings us all closer together.

Looking back over the past three years, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. What started as an idea in a cow pasture has become a tradition I hope continues for many years to come. And while we can’t control the weather (though trust me, I’ve wished for that more than once!), we can control the way we show up for one another. And if the past three years are any indication, I know this community will continue to show up, rain or shine.

Here’s to the next chapter of Smalltown Market Days. We hope to see you there! 💙