Owners Jonathan and Andrea Haskin have demonstrated through their business, Fall Creek Farmers Market, that their gamble has paid off big. The vibrant space has transformed the community’s food shopping habits and educated their customers on the importance of buying fresh and local items.

The Haskins got the idea for the market in 2015 when they realized they had to travel far and wide to source quality ingredients from local farmers. This led them to ponder what would happen if they brought their community closer to the source, and the overwhelmingly positive response from their neighbors validated their vision. Situated in the picturesque Fall Creek neighborhood, the market’s outdoor setup near a golf course and walking trails attracts a large crowd every Sunday morning.

Jonathan and Andrea prioritize being present in their space and providing a personalized experience for every visitor. They arrive early to set up and stay until the end of the market, taking the time to greet and share their story with customers. In the early days, their daughters even made bracelets for shoppers at the entrance. This community-centric approach has garnered praise from customers, with one reviewer, Forest B., expressing his appreciation for the personal touch and cultural diversity of the market.

With 20+ vendors offering global cuisines, the market provides ample opportunity for customers to sample and engage with vendors. Forest’s experience exemplifies the educational ecosystem at the market, as he had the chance to learn firsthand about the vendors’ products and journeys. The market’s emphasis on teaching its visitors about the importance of fresh, quality food is evident from the vendors they select, with 90% of them farming and ranching full-time. The Haskins have been passionate about immersing themselves into the market, carefully curating the vendors to embody the values they embrace.

The success of Fall Creek Farmers Market is not just a testament to their business acumen but a triumph for the local community. Not only does buying locally contribute to better health, but it also supports the local economy, as highlighted by Forest. The importance of small businesses in driving the economy cannot be overstated, and the market presents an opportunity for people to learn from the diverse backgrounds of the business owners.

To further enhance the customer experience, Jonathan and Andrea engage with customers online ahead of each sale, providing information about the vendors and the produce options available. This preparation ensures that customers can plan their visits effectively and make informed choices about their purchases. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and the community’s well-being has paid dividends, with loyal customers now doing up to 80% of their food shopping at the market.

In addition to providing a high-quality market experience, the Haskins place great importance on customer feedback and community engagement, striving to expand the offerings and inclusivity of their space. This reflects their belief in the importance of receptive feedback and genuine dialogue with their customers. Their commitment to these values has contributed to Fall Creek Farmers Market becoming a staple in the community.

Fall Creek Farmers Market embodies the belief that passion starts from within, preparation is vital, and supporting local businesses can be transformative for both individuals and the community as a whole. By placing love and care into their work, communicating with customers, and embracing small businesses, the market serves as an example of how a business can thrive while nurturing the local community and economy.

Ultimately, Jonathan and Andrea have succeeded in their mission to change their community’s food shopping habits and foster a greater understanding of the value of local, fresh produce. Their dedication to educating and engaging their customers has built a thriving marketplace that serves as a cornerstone of the Fall Creek neighborhood. Through their unwavering commitment to their vision, they have positioned the market at the heart of the community, creating a space where meaningful connections, cultural awareness, and healthy living can thrive.

This article was contributed by Callie Morgan and Kristi Lindahl.