BLUFFTON, Ohio (WLIO) -Â Bluffton is hosting its weekly farmers market through October to help promote local commerce.Â
The Bluffton Farmers Market featured stands offering fresh produce, baked goods, lotions, soaps, garden plants and other items from local vendors and businesses. People passing through could also listen to live music as they browsed the market. Members of the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce said many successful businesses in the area started in the market, and that it helps get the word out about local vendors.Â
"There's probably at least half a dozen vendors that started here at the Farmer's Market that now have a brick-and-mortar store," said Greg Probst, manager of the market.
"Some are in Lima, some are in Findlay. We just wanted to get entrepreneurs out and try to see what they can do with a product that they have and get it sold, and we're looking for a way to promote Bluffton in the morning."
Businesses had to fill out a vendor agreement before being able to set up a table. Business owners said the market has helped them advertise their services while interacting with the community.Â
"We have repeat customers every week that come out to the farmers market that come straight for a certain business vendor and then go for new vendors as they shop around the different markets," said Brandy Cox, owner of Freeze-Dried Bliss.
"I just come to the market because I'm retired, and this is my retirement that I love to do because I love baking. I love the kitchen, and this keeps me busy just coming here," said Judy Kleman, owner of Bent Nail Bakery.
The market operates every Saturday morning until October from 8 a.m. to noon, and businesses can contact the market at explorebluffton.com.Â
