Farmers markets put you in front of hungry customers who already value local food. They're also regulated, competitive, and physically demanding. Preparation separates profitable market days from stressful ones.
Permits and labels
Confirm your cottage food permit covers market sales in your county. Some markets require separate vendor insurance — budget $100–300/year.
Every product needs a label with ingredients, allergens, your business name, and required home-kitchen language for your state.
Pricing and inventory
Price for impulse buys — $3–6 cookies sell faster than $85 whole cakes at a booth. Bring bestsellers, not your full custom menu.
Track what you sell in Bakekick so you know what to bake next week. Markets teach you fast which flavors move.
- Square card reader or Bakekick payment link for customers without cash.
- Tent weights, tablecloth, and a clear price list.
- Samples in small cups — one bite converts browsers to buyers.
Collect emails for a market-day list. Follow up Monday with a discount on custom orders — that's how market customers become year-round clients.
