I attended a great event at the PNE yesterday called “Meet Your Maker”. It was an opportunity to meet small, local food producers, learn about what they do, and do business with them! A great concept as most growers, while knowing the importance of marketing, are less inclined to engage in it. I really like the collaborative nature of the endeavor, rather than see each other as competition, growers and buyers are banding together with common goals.

The day consisted of three workshops interspersed with “speed dating” segments in which participants could briefly meet, exchange business and find out a little about each other. The three workshops were “Selling Beyond the Farmers Market”, “Retail Supported Agriculture” and “Marketing and Eco Packaging”

I met some wonderful producers and hope to business with two as soon as possible…

“The Kootenay Alpine Cheese Co.” who specialize in hard cheese like Fontina and Beaufort L’Alpage made from milk from their own herd. As well, I was introduced to “Hopcott Meats” in Pitt Meadows who produce hormone and additive free, grain fed beef.

This, the 2nd annual event, was organized by Bonita Magee Project Manager for Get Local with assistance from FarmFolk CityFolk, Vancouver Farmers Market and Local Food First.