There isn’t anything more local than someone setting up a table and selling their crafts.
For the past six months, that’s exactly what local vendors have done every Saturday at the Methow Valley Farmer’s Market in front of the community center.
In stifling heat and, more recently, annoying cold, vendors arrive by 7:30 am to open in time for the market at 9 am.
A few seasoned vendors bring propane heaters.
Most just bundle up.
I’ve come to know some of them. As the market season wraps up (last day is Nov. 1), I’d like to share a few of my favorites.
Homestead Craft
Step under Peggy Stansbury’s canopy, and you’ll start to feel good vibes. All of her handiwork has an aura of goodness and kindness, even the witches and vampires. (Full disclosure, I bought two reindeer from her and returned a few weeks later to stand next to her wares just for the vibes.) Stansbury ignores the rules on body proportions. Small heads, crooked noses, it all just magically fits. It’s hard not to like Stansbury’s work or her prices, which are half of what they would be on the west side.
Visit her stand at the farmer’s market on Saturdays through Nov. 1. She will also be at the Christmas Bazaar in Twisp Nov. 22 and Dec. 6.
Chewuch Coffee
Sean Downes is a coffee connoisseur. He seeks to understand coffee flavor and how it’s interpreted by others. I met Sean the way most people do- while ordering a cup of coffee. It was also the first time I put honey in my coffee. (It was a great idea.) Ask him about an upcoming training on roasting coffee beans at home or other trainings you might be interested in.
Sean is also involved in ultra marathon running. He helped organize a 100 mile race on Orcas Island.
Can humans run that far? I asked him.
Apparently so.
Local Honey
There are two local honey producers at the farmer’s market- Bee Light Honey and Methow Gold Honey, both in Methow Valley. Both sell really good honey, so I would recommend them both. Honey varies by taste and quantity year to year, so prices will fluctuate based on the bees’ production. Stop by and stock up on honey for your tea (or coffee) this winter.
Smallwood Farms
Smallwood farms doesn’t need an introduction. It’s the most popular stand at the farmer’s market. Its produce is grown just over the pass near Okanogan. Stop by and check out the last fruit and vegetables of the season.
There are more vendors to check out in person. Be sure to dress warmly, though. It’ll be a cool 34 degrees at opening Oct. 25 with a high of 40 degrees by noon. Rain is expected at 1 pm.
The market is open 9 am to noon on Saturdays through Nov. 1.
