As they enter from the various market stalls across the street, we see our customers being transported to the little Basque village in the French Pyrenees, the birthplace of many of our handmade products. What’s the draw? Where’s the link? It seems tradition is the key ingredient. This lifestyle can be found in almost all French towns and large villages as the history of the Farmers Market is enjoyed so widely from tourists to locals alike throughout France. I realize even walking into Bon Marche’s front door, the essence of the French lifestyle permeates.
Market tote in hand, I cross the street to our local Farmers Market to pick up some of my favorite handmade bread. I see similarity of the original French style farmers market in our own Santa Fe Railyard. They share two ideals: tradition and local producers. The idea of French street markets and covered marketplaces have been carried over to our local market pavilion where our market stalls span to the outside sidewalk as well as indoor venue. It seems the concept of personal connection with local vendors and producers is eternal. Never do these Certified Organic farmers cease to produce fresh bursts of seasonally grown food for their customers, and thus we see tradition revitalized every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday right here across from our shop.
If the link to the French essence wasn’t enough, our roomy market tote offers the perfect touch to your local Farmers’ Market style. This bag can carry your whole day. With an interior that is coated it makes for easy cleaning. Adjustable straps allow you to carry it over your shoulder comfortably, with plenty of space to stash your market goodies. But the market tote doesn’t have to stop at your bunch of dangling radishes and pound of potatoes, it’s perfect for the beach, market, office or a day of errands. This colorful bag will make a daily chore more cheerful, adding to the passion we share for tradition.
Catch the full photo album of my Saturday visit to the Santa Fe Farmers' Market on our Facebook Fan Page.
http://www.facebook.com/BONMARCHEONLINE
By Alex Cebry