A tasty display of treats from Miss Angel’s Heavenly Pies at the first Elkin Farmers Market of the 2021 season.
ELKIN — Fresh eggs, leafy greens, plants, pottery and pastries were among the offerings at the first Elkin Farmers Market of the season. Vendors said they were excited for the market’s return and shoppers were taking advantage of the market despite cool and dreary weather conditions on Saturday morning.
“This is incredible,” said James Garrett of the first market Saturday. Garrett and his wife Severin, of Greenhouse Towers, sell a variety of leafy greens which are raised in indoor tower-like growing units. The produce comes with roots still attached making it last longer in the refrigerator than typical lettuce or greens.
“It thinks it’s still living,” James Garrett explained.
“We’re unique in the marketplace,” Severin Garrett added.
James Garrett said the Elkin Farmers Market was nice as many customers remembered them and would come back to their booth.
“They remember about the quality and what we’re doing and how different it is,” he said.
He added that he hopes this year’s market season will be better overall.
”We hope it’s busier than it was last year, you know COVID was a bit tough on everybody. It’s already been off to good start,” he said.
Melissa Manning of Melissa’s Natural Pet Treats, said she was also glad to be back at the Elkin Farmers Market and looking forward to the fresh produce to come.
“I am so excited about the farmers market and our farmers being able to bring some nutritious fresh vegetables and meats to the community,” Manning said.
Britta Ring of Ring Farm had handsewn pillows and face masks for sale at her booth as well as fresh eggs, including duck, goose and quail eggs which are raised on her farm.
Plants, honey and pastries were available at the first market of the season as well as hand-crafted items.
Artist Megan Lassen of Sweet Danes Farm had a display of handmade pottery mugs, wine mugs and more. Originally from Wyoming and having lived all over the country, Lassen now calls East Bend home and she loves the vibe at the Elkin Farmers Market.
“Usually there’s music and it’s more of a local crowd,” said Lassen.
She said the market had something of a Pacific Northwest feeling, “a little more artsy, hippy vibe.”
“This little community is pretty wonderful,” Lassen said.
Kitsey Burns Harrison may be reached at 336-258-4035 or follow her on Twitter @RippleReporterK.