 The inaugural Westerville Saturday Farmers Market #wsfm will welcome in visitors from all around Central Ohio this weekend as local vendors line Grove Street on the campus of Otterbein University! The long wait is over for Westerville residents, thanks to the partnership of Uptown Westerville, Inc., the City of Westerville and Otterbein University, but it’s several of the Market vendors’ deep rooted ties to Westerville that make it so special. Local ties, and an abundance of organic, natural products with a focus on sustainable farming, are a theme among the more than twenty merchants. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect this weekend and stay tuned for more Market stories throughout the summer. It’s more than just a Market...it’s Home
With nearly 50 years of family farming tradition between the Jorgensen and Bird families, owners of Jorgensen Farms and Bird’s Haven Farms respectively, Westerville has been home for the two families for just as long. From raising cattle off Freeman Road to serving as a Genoa Township Trustee (the Bird family), the family owned and operated business has been a member of the Wednesday Farmers Market in Westerville since its inception. Valerie Jorgensen and her four sons farm the 65-acres on the eastern edge of Westerville and look forward to growing with the Saturday Farmers Market for years to come. The two family owned farms aren’t the only merchants with a Westerville background. The owner/operators of That Mushroom Guy and The Cake Bar both grew up in Westerville. Owners Geoff Pyle (That Mushroom Guy) and Danyale Owen (The Cake Bar) turned hobbies into businesses and now look forward to showcasing their work in their hometown. These two graduates of Westerville schools bring a focus on quality and freshness to Market! Don’t worry, it’s all Natural, baby Family owned with Westerville roots aren’t the only commonalities amongst merchants at this year’s Market. Natural, Organic, and Sustainably sourced are three qualities found throughout the many product offerings you’ll be able to find on Saturday mornings Uptown. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional baked goods, check out Aunt B's Bakery. Focusing on treats that fit into a healthy lifestyle, founder Bethany Rooks offers a variety of tasty options to accommodate specific dietary restrictions or allergies (gluten free, paleo, and keto baked goods). With the heat of summer right around the corner, there’s no better way to cool off than with a refreshing cocktail with friends. Looking for a simple alternative to your typical beverage of choice? Stop by Simple Times Mixers for a fresh, natural mixer to pair with your favorite spirit. All natural and gluten-free, they’ve got you covered! If you’re like me and headed to the Westerville Saturday Farmers Market to pick up something fresh to grill that night, Covey Rise Farms offers fresh proteins raised on non-GMO diets. Pair one of their pasture raised meats with a couple certified organic vegetables from L Marie Ltd and you’ll feast on a fresh, sustainably raised meal that will have your neighbors begging to know where you did your grocery shopping. Whether it’s a Westerville-grown owner and business, or a variety of organic, all-natural product offerings, these are just a handful of the excited merchants you will find at the Westerville Saturday Farmers Market this weekend. Stop on by the Chef’s demonstration and enjoy live music as you shop. Please comment below and let us know what you think about the Market. I hope to see you out there!
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