Christy Laws took matters into her own hands.
The seasoned vendor at countless farmers markets from California to Florida repeatedly found herself unable to book a spot at packed St. Johns County events.
The St. Augustine resident was even willing to travel to a prominent Orlando farmers market to land a space — but faced yet another demoralizing waiting list.
Frustrated by the gourmet gridlock, Laws began searching for a new venue that would allow others in her position to showcase their homegrown goods.
She eventually hit the jackpot, locking in a deal with St. Augustine’s ever popular Classic Car Museum to run a farmers market in their expansive grounds every Sunday.
“We’re really excited to bring something fresh and fun to this part of town,” Laws excitedly told The Citizen of what will officially be known as the St. Augustine Farmers Market. “These events bring the whole community together, it’s locals supporting locals.”
The event will kick off on April 27, and will run every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More than 60 local farmers, foodies and craftspeople have already signed up for spaces, and Laws — who will operate the venture with her husband — said the calls are continuing to roll in.
Current participants include Lake City’s Fruitful Earth Farms, who will offer naturally raised beef and lamb, and local skincare experts Grass Fed Skin.
“Farmers markets have become incredibly popular for a lot of reasons,” Laws said. “People don’t just want to buy their products from mega-corporations. They are paying attention to what they’re consuming. They want to buy from people they know.”
Her venture, she said, will complement the perennially oversubscribed farmers market at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre that runs on Saturdays.
“This is really about small business and small business owners,” she said. “If everyone makes a commitment and it’s organized and run well, it’s magic. We can’t wait.”
