Sparwood Farmer’s Market is kicking off its first market this Friday with a special event including live music by Common Soul and live radio coverage by The Drive FM. The market will be in the Chamber of Commerce parking lot every Friday until September 6.
Market organizer Amy Cardozo explained, “There will be food vendors - perfect since it starts right at dinnertime so come hungry.”
The process to starting up the market has been a long one for Cardozo. In spite of hitting several roadblocks, Cardozo refused to give up on her vision. In July 2012, while trying to find markets to attend with her business, Crumbs Cakery Elk Valley, the idea to start a market in Sparwood was born.
After some research, Cardozo created a logo, set-up an email account and a Facebook page to gauge public and vendor interest. Within two weeks 50 vendors had contacted her and the public was very excited. This gave Cardozo the steam to forge ahead as she planned the "Sparwood Mini Market" as a test. On September 6, the Mini Market was held and it was a huge success. Eighteen vendors attended selling food products, baked goods, photography, artisan crafts; the public turnout was fantastic.
A Board of Directors was formed in order to establish a "Not-for-Profit Society". The Sparwood Farmer's Market Society Board of Directors are Amy Cardozo, Raegan Etue, Tracy Kaisner, Jennifer Forsyth and Jennifer Gardiner. Cardozo commented, “These ladies have been amazing to work with. They have all been working really hard at helping pull all the final details together; I cannot thank them enough.”
Cardozo added, “Many vendors have already signed up for the entire season so please think twice before leaving town to shop. As important as it is to have vendors, it's even more important to have members of the community coming out to the markets to help support the local vendors in their small business ventures. Supporting these small vendors opens opportunity for permanent businesses to be welcomed to our community, which in turn will enhance and strengthen our local economy and community well being within Sparwood.”
The Sparwood Farmer's Markets will be held on Friday evenings from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce parking lot from June 28 to September 6. New vendors, musicians and volunteers are welcome. For more information, please contact Amy Cardozo at 250-910-0770 or email sparwoodmarket@hotmail.ca.