THE VOID: Vegan Mario’s 5 Pro Tips to CRUSH the Farmers Market
- Go either early or late. If you want the best selection, go early before the market is even officially open. While the farmers are setting up, you can eye their goods. To get the best deals, (and you may want to go this route if you are shopping for large quantities of fruits and veggies for a cleanse), go at the end. This only works if you aren’t picky about what produce you’re getting. Ask if there’s an “end of market discount”.
- Offer to pick up at the farm instead. If you have a favorite vendor at the farmers market, ask if it would be better for them to have you pick up or even harvest your own produce from their farm for a reduced rate.
- Become a regular. If you shop often with the same farmer, you will likely be rewarded for it. Most of the farmers we shop with give us tons of freebies and extra of everything. Tell the farmer about your diet and that you’re open to any fruits or veggies at a good price (and then give them your contact info).
- Appreciate your farmer’s hard work. Farming is an art. Tell your farmer how much you appreciate what he/she’s doing and that his/her produce looks beautiful. Gratitude goes a long way! You may get deals, freebies or access to the super premium goodies that the farmers keep tucked away for their best customers.
- Invest in wheels. If you’re buying in volume, you might want to acquire a wagon or wheeled cart. This will allow you to do your entire fruit & veg haul in one fell swoop. I’ve seen parents use strollers for gathering produce. That certainly works too! You can always wear your baby while you’re strolling your veggies.