Today is the last Thursday before we begin the Murrysville Farmer's Market. Next week will be the first week of two markets a week. Two markets a week is a lot of markets a week for us. Unlike Ligonier, Murrysville is a first-come, first-serve setup. To get a "good spot," we have to leave a little before noon. We spend the entire day in Murrysville because the market does not open until three and closes at seven. Thursdays will be long days. The Bibbed Wonder did the Murrysville Market alone last year. He was worried about The Bean and me being exposed to the virus, and it makes for a very long day. However, my bib overall wearing wonder buns is exhausted on the drive home, and I worry about him. This year, The Bean and I will be in attendance to help out and make sure one bibbed wonder doesn't fall asleep on the drive home. We face next week with a bit of trepidation.
The Murrysville Market is much smaller than Ligonier. In my opinion, we haven't experienced the Murrysville Market to its full potential. Last year was Covid, and there were regulations in place that made it somewhat challenging to get the full experience. Caution tape was placed in front of our stand, and we were not to cross it or allow customers to cross it. When selling a product that relies heavily on scent and feel, it makes it hard to express and share the benefits and worth of our products. I am hopeful that with the decrease in cases, regulations will be a bit more relaxed.
Although we felt like we struggled to gain ground with a customer base in Murrysville, we still met some wonderful people. Of course, Addie and her family are part of the Murrysville Market family. Jordan is excited to attend Murrysville just to see Addie. That is a bright spot in the week for sure. Eric also befriended Jerry, the honey guy, and is hoping to see him again. We will also see our friends Mike and Jill from Chaganra Farm. We have met some wonderful people at markets, and they make all the hard work worth it.
Murrysville Market is a great little venue if you are in the Murrysville area or enjoy attending smaller farmer's markets. There are quality vendors who take pride in their work and are passionate about what they do. There are also some great food vendors in attendance. The Murrysville Market is a wonderful way to support local farms and small businesses. It's also an excellent way to spend a Thursday evening. We hope to see you there and may even bring our little Merribelle to act as an ambassador for The Smiling Goat Soap Co.
As always, dear reader, stay safe, be smart; we hope to see you at the Murrysville Farmer's Market and keep washing those hands.