Carol Roper knows that the best is yet to come.
With lots of sun, sprinkled with a good dose of spring rains, local gardens are thriving. Customers who frequent the Pea Ridge Farmers Market are simply going to love the veggies and more that will be available in coming weeks.
"I'm really excited about the number of vendors and customers we have had in this very early period of the Farmers Market season," said Roper, who serves as the Pea Ridge Farmers Market coordinator.
"And the best is yet to come, with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, watermelons and more, right around the corner," she said.
The Farmers Market consistently features six to seven vendors most weeks, with at least two more vendors promising to come on board.
If the weather cooperates, Roper would like to keep the market open to the end of October, and possibly Thanksgiving.
Commitment and consistency are the keys for success. Roper believes that offering quality items -- and being there each week -- can provide dividends to both vendors and the community.
"You never know when you are going to have a great day or one not so good. One person or several can make a big difference," she said.
"Of course, how attractive you and your booth are makes a big difference, but people knowing you will be there is a big key."
The Pea Ridge Farmers Market is open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Having the market on Sundays helps vendors market their goods on a day when others usually aren't competing.
"Sundays was always best for our market because some of our vendors do have other markets," Roper said.
For instance, Roper features her items at markets in Eureka Springs on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Rogers on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Mondays are devoted to making jams and jellies, and Fridays to cultivating her gardens. She also squeezes in some time in the afternoons.
As local gardens continue to grow, the market will gain more customers as more products are made available this summer.
Roper is looking forward to that. She believes that exceptional items and customer service at the Pea Ridge Farmers Market will bring people together.
"And, of course, a welcoming smile!"
The Farmers Market is located at 197 Slack Street.
Business on 06/07/2017