Know-How Exchange : Taglines/Names

The FM still has a few participants and fewer customers. The location is inconvenient, the facilities are too small, and the private management is more of a dictatorship. Hence, the County Executive has asked me to create a new FM without using the actual name 'Farmers' Market"--(Yes, it would be easier to just create a new county supported FM, but our Exec wants to be re-elected).

Everyone involved liked the idea and is on board with the idea of a community-based event where produce and crafts are sold as well. The initial idea was to have it on our public square (involves Mainstreet Merchants) for 2-3 hours on a weeknight (Thursday). The problem there lies this is a small town centered around southern baptist religion and sports. Frankly, unless there is something for free given away these people will not show, especially if it coincides with there kids softball game for example. The others involved with this do not see my angle/concern on that.

The night would include involving others from the community include: free blood pressure screening by the hospital (aging community), handmade crafts, canning classes by the 4-H students, ect. as well as a focus event to draw in a crowd-such as a bike night, and a gospel night, outdoor movie night, ect.

My concerns lye with this being unsuccessful because its on a weeknight, the public square is small and will segregate activities, lack of vendor participation because of the short time frame, lack of awareness of what we are actually promoting.

The County is working on a long term goal of establishing a new facility with adequate space and during that process overturning the 'private dictorship' currently in place. We are trying to strike interest within the community until then (1 year to 18 months).

In talking to those in the community I am leaning toward more of a FM and flea market. This is a small, aging, budget conscious community. And the few small weekend flea market spots do VERY well to get the traffic in. We also have a major tourism advantage-the Amish community. (Their religion will not let them sell at the market..already tried). Being on the state line, we draw many from the neighboring state. Our long-term market will be on the main road to encourage this waypoint.

I believe I have the perfect temporary location for the FM with flea market, crafts, ect. Maybe only doing this June and July on Saturdays from 6am to 3pm would be more beneficial and draw more foot traffic.

Any thoughts and questions are much appreciated-thanks.