Long-Term Relationships

Yes, last Sunday I was M.I.A. at the market. No, I wasn’t sick. No, I didn’t have mechanical difficulties. Instead, I was in the heart of the District roasting a pig for one of the oldest neighborhood block parties with a customer-turned-dear friend on Saturday. It was the same neighborhood in which I had gone to another farmers market for eight years. I knew with the long day, libations and dancing I’d be in no shape for Sunday, so I took the day off sleeping in and visiting my old market friends.When circumstance required me to choose a single Sunday market, it was a difficult decision having built close relationships with fellow vendors and customers spanning nearly a decade. But practicality took precedent—not as far to drive, lower market fees, better management, a growing area, and most importantly, year-round. Another plus, the front end of my car didn’t need realigned annually after traveling the streets of DC.Despite the switch, each year I still procure the pig and help with the festivities, maintaining relationships that once began over a carton of eggs at a farmers market.Over the years I’ve attended several markets in the MD/DC/VA/PA region. The dynamics of regional markets is ever evolving. While some vendors become mainstays, others migrate. The number of markets has swelled in the last ten years. Customers have more choices than ever for locally produced goods and vendor have more options for selling. I’ve witnessed many dedicated customers who will follow their favorite vendors from market to market throughout the region not only for the products, but for the friendships they’ve built.At the block party last week one couple recognized me in delight wondering where I had gone. I’m certain they’ll show up this Sunday for the fix they’ve been missing and continue to be regulars once again.As I reflect on many of my friendships, I realize that one way or another they began at a farmers market. Fellow vendors, customers, neighborhood business owners now make up the bulk of my “community”. Digging deeper I realized it wasn’t the transaction of goods or even weekly visits, but a sharing of lives that has precipitated great friendships.Many of the Central Farm Markets vendors have open farm days, special events, internships, farm stays and parties to offer customers a glimpse into how their food is produced. What has fueled many of my friendships is the opposite—when farmers are invited to share their customers’ lives. Customers often challenge long held (and erroneous) beliefs of rural vendors in regard to music, art, cultures, sexual orientation, religions and of course, food. Great things happen when these barriers are broken down.Everyone loves to visit farms, but when was the last time you invited your farmers to participate in your life? Yes, we are a busy lot, but we also hold many interests outside of our agrarian endeavors. Got something cool going on that you’d like to share with your farmer? Invite them. They just may show up and become a friend for life.