Olive Loom has proudly been a part of the vibrant Fayetteville Farmers Market for over a decade. Each year, vendors select their spots on the historic Fayetteville Square during the annual meeting. With approximately 55 spots available every Saturday, the selection process is based on a ranking system that considers attendance, sales, and longevity. This year, I’m excited to share that we ranked as the third-highest craft vendor, following Beth Woessner and Ugly Bunny Gardens. Overall, we placed 25th—our highest ranking to date.
Leah and I often reflect on our very first day at the market. Back then, we were set up at the Sunday Botanical Garden. It took over an hour to set up, and I was thrilled to make $100 that day. In 2012, I was teaching pharmacy tech students at night as an RN. Earning $100 on a few hours of work at the market felt like a huge win, especially when it took me several nights of teaching to make the same amount.
In those early years, as a “floater” vendor during the economic downturn, we realized that many of the market’s vendors had full-time jobs during the week. The market served as a secondary income source for most of them. Many were seamstresses, so we aimed to create products they could help sew to earn extra income. This idea won us one of the first Start-Up competitions with a decentralized business model. Even today, we collaborate with women who sew from home. We’re proud to employ two seamstresses who work in small-batch production and have graduated from the University in Apparel Design.
Collaborating with others, being part of this community, and encouraging people to excel in what they love—whether it's sewing, designing, or improving efficiency—has always been a driving force for me. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of supporting each other.
The Fayetteville Farmers Market is recognized as one of the top markets in the United States, drawing over 4,000 visitors every Saturday. In 2024, it contributed more than $2.4 million to the local economy. As a top tourist destination, becoming a vendor is highly competitive. The board, made up mostly of farmers and crafters, primarily represents those selling produce and flowers.
The market's ranking system is unique. Sales, attendance, and longevity are all factored in, and evaluations are conducted annually. A decline in sales or attendance can quickly result in becoming a "floater" vendor, meaning a vendor loses their permanent spot. This system ensures the market’s continued success and commitment to high-quality vendors.
Being part of the Fayetteville Farmers Market and its community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our journey. The energy of the market is contagious, and so many of our products have been inspired by customer suggestions.
Over the years, we’ve crafted a variety of products, including reversible aprons, linen clothing, face masks, and reusable paper towels. Our focus has always been on creating versatile, durable, and high-quality items. In 2025, we’re excited to take our creations to the next level by introducing our own fabric designs, crafted by our in-house designers and seamstresses.
The first two weekends of March, the Market is indoors at the Fayetteville Senior Center. Spring Fling opening day on the Fayetteville Square is the last two weekends of March.
Hope to see you there!
Comments