I scored a 50% off Seedy Grains (by Lost Bread Co.) at Riverwards today. They also had these jumbo blackberries. After unpacking the ingredients I did some work and forgot to eat breakfast. But somewhere around 11 AM a wave of inspiration hit me. Here it is. Simple stuff – bread, organic almond butter and homemade blackberry jam.
Homemade Blackberry Jam #Livelocal
I drizzled a little honey on top to take away from the sourness of the berries. Perfect and satisfying. It got me thinking how overlooked simplicity can be. Yet there’s an appeal that something is so accessible isn’t there? It’s good to be able to source things and put them together in a meaningful way. I think that is why I love to write.
It’s the season when I do what I call plant hopping. This is where I visit as many local shops and plant outlets as possible. I’ve never had an outdoor patch of green before, so I usually use my green thumb indoors. As a result of being a first time home owner, imagine my excitement at trying my hand as a landscape artist (#not). I’m not sure I would call myself a plant whisperer, but I do enjoy communicating with mine. I feel they are able to tell you something to cue you on how they like where they are.One of My Favorite Walks in Montreal
Plant Whispering
This can be in the lilt of an upturned leaf. Or the budding of new branches. A blossoming. I’m perfectly fine in this pot even though I’m overcrowded (my jade). The sun is way too strong, you’re killing me – I’m brown not green already. Things like that.
Vrksa means a tree. In this posture, the whole body extends upwards like a tree.YOGA A GEM FOR WOMEN – Geeta Iyengar
I’m curious to spot these things. I think the deeper meaning and sensitivity is refreshing. The world is getting hard and harsh. Or maybe that’s because I’ve overheard too many El conversations.They really like the east-facing window in Spring and Summer Anyway, I think plants help me create a feeling of sanctuary. Haven is so important, however you find it. Imagine if every single person on the planet tapped into the energy of nurturing. All at once.One of my favorite walks in Philly- Schuykill River Trail Dogwood Spotting At any rate, when I left my plants in Montreal to come to the states, it was a challenging good-bye. Since moving to the U.S, I’ve kept a few growing but noticed that my NJ plants didn’t transfer well to Philly. I guess they missed the certain kind of light.
But Philly is filled with plant stores so I’ve made plant hopping a ritual. It’s that haven thing again. I think they help to bring me home. So, if that sounds like you, I’ve tried out several stores here. This is my take on them, and I am not getting paid for this review.
A few options for plant-s- hopping
First, I want to give an honorable mention to Trader Joes (please open one up in Fishtown/NoLibs). I transplanted a $4.99 mini rose and it is growing like I never imagined. Plus, you’ll often get a good pot out of it even if the plant dies which does happen.
Definitely a plant boutique. There’s a leather couch, you just want to sit on. Friendly staff and if you buy a pot, they’ll earth you plant in it. But, not cheap. I like their idea of a rewards card but they should reward you for each item. In my opinion.meet Clusia from Stump, she’s got zazzz
First time visit here this year. It is hard to park but staff is friendly and helpful. For instance, I got good advice about which earth mix to use. Bit too pricy for pots but nice for a house plant on the smaller side. Not cheap. Said earth mote cost effective at Loews. I asked about their green wall installation – it is $$$$ but hey, there’s always the power ball.
Not a boutique, more like a plant supermarket. They definitely have garden supplies, parking, soil and selection. Plus, you can drive there, load a basket and there’s no extra fuss. Meaning they aren’t trying to be cool, trendy or local. Good selection of jade plants, hanging plants, etc. etc.Live from Loews Garden CenterRittenhouse Square
This is definitely an outing for Saturday morning. Lively and crowded. You get to soak up the vibe in Rittenhouse Square, including the Dogwoods. A bit sales oriented so I don’t ask for advice, no potting service, and not cheap. But, you come away having enjoyed yourself and you can definitely score some great finds to re-pot yourself.
This place is a maze and I keep wishing Cafe La Maude took reservations so I could get to both in one visit. But parking is a challenge. Some of my plants are doing well, others no. They seem more at the cuttings stage as opposed to brought in from the greenhouse (Stump). They did pot my plants for me since I bought the container. I like going and also wish I could afford their great knick knacks but no.My money tree and friendGreensgrow
If you live in Fishtown or Northern Liberties, this place is worth going to. There’s another location in West Philly but I found it too out of the way. We go here for some summer plants and a few garden things because I believe in supporting local businesses. I’m one too.
Digital platforms have redefined reading. I’m not referring only to tablets like kindle. These portable libraries may actually encourage us to have a book in hand. As a result, we can now do so with greater freedom and a lighter purse.
What is your attention span?
I feel that the vast number of digital articles, blogs, email campaigns etc. has changed (re-framed?) our attention span. Have you noticed, glued to a screen, how much reading you do in a day? Would you say you dive in or skim read? Do you still enjoy reading for pleasure? Is your attention span the same as it was 10 or 15 years ago?
Neuroscientists have discovered that reading a novel can improve brain function on a variety of levels.Christopher Bergland, Psychology Today
Recent reports show that Americans are reading less each year. No doubt many of us lack the time, but what most irks me is we don’t aim high with our attention spans. After all, we can click our way out of reading anything digital. Before we know it we’ve therefore opened 5 pages that take us in 5 directions. Or we extricate – grab the bullet points and go.
If you’re an average reader, I’ve got your attention for 15 seconds, so here goes: We are getting a lot wrong about the web these days. We confuse what people have clicked on for what they’ve read. We mistake sharing for reading. Tony Haile. Time Magazine
Has Everything Written Been Dumbed-down?
As a writer, I’m reading for research purposes more than for the joy of the story. I run my written work through editing software and sometimes through editors. In fact, one client wants the tone and syntax to be at eighth grade level understanding. You should know that ‘dumbing it down’ is often a key component to online writing. I do completely understand this. Online equals access to a wider audience – yes you millennials. It also means that built into many pieces is a guess that you won’t actually read what you’re reading. You’ll skim or look for the bullet points. It’s like going to the Grand Canyon, taking a selfie to show your followers and saying “I just explored this natural wonder!”. I’m trying to achieve a different intellectual balance in spite of my enthusiasm for creative and SEO writing. Truth told my eyes get tired after 8 hours of typing and staring at a computer screen. In addition, some of the books that I’ve picked up through book club recommendations (not the ones below) have disappointed me. They seem to have the same flavor as dumbed down web-based pieces, which does nothing for me. At least, nothing stimulating to my intellect.
What is on Your Reading List? Here’s Mine
Recently I’ve picked up a few noteworthy novels to share with you. So far, I’m 3/4 into All the Light We Cannot See and find it engrossing. For my taste, it has great character development and the chapters flow from one to the next. Consequently, I never feel like I’ve lost my place and always want to pick it up for more. I’m not a huge fan of punchy digital copy that has 3 words in a sentence – though I understand it. If you use any editing software, you can achieve this result. Yet I have spoken with women my age and we feel this style targets a younger (perhaps less professional) audience. Here are some features that I look for a novel:
Characters I can understand – not necessarily relate to
Author focus – not too many tangents
A plot I can follow and identify – good story telling
Vocabulary that makes me go to the dictionary a few times – but isn’t pseudo intellectual
Has some meaning to it – I am less drawn to fluff and more to substance (remember Steinbeck’s East of Eden?)
Well researched if the goal is to address a specific time period
If auto-biographical, not egotistical
What’s on your bookshelf? Anything that makes you feel enriched? Let’s start 2019 with a drive to get smarter. To expand our minds and nourish our soul.
I was just asked for some samples of writing that showed my playful side. Scanning my portfolio whilst my eyes rolled up in my head, I began my task. Not sure why we look up to the ceiling for answers. But I did find 3 playful articles. Here they are…digital drum roll please.
The playful tone is usually positive, upbeat and pitchy but can also break down a more serious topic into bite sized easy to read pieces. Does playful content make for great SEO? Not sure. It can be redundant and a little choppy if you aren’t careful.
Generally, a paragraph that contains many consecutive sentences all starting with the same word, won’t be a nice read. The words will feel repetitive and the text will lack flow. That’s obviously not great for readability
I like the idea of playful writing. Shorter sentences. Using vernacular instead of proper syntax and grammar. I enjoy a snappy blog post too. Going to try and lighten my tone from here on in….
Getting in touch with my inner playful
Let me know if I can curate a few articles for YOU. Pick a genre from meditation to mortgages.
Do you wonder how to make it as a freelance writer? I’ve been a professional freelance writer for many years now. I’ve worked 50 hour weeks and 50 hour months. These ebbs and flows are the result of client budgets, not ability. It’s the kind of flux that is often super rewarding or downright challenging. Resilience, in other words, is a freelancer’s middle name.
5 Tips for Freelance Writers
To navigate the world of a freelancer writer, there are five things I find crucial. Here goes. Bullets first for the skimmers.
Create a Productive Workspace
Manage Your Time
Be Receptive to Feedback
Research and Develop
Have a Bottom Line
Create a Productive Workspace
If you work from home as a freelance writer, you’ll need a productive workspace. Clean and de-cluttered works for me. You show up at work and get right down to it. After all, if you don’t meet or come in ahead of deadlines, good luck getting a recommendation on LinkedIn.
Make sure you are professional
https://twitter.com/yoginiqueen?lang=en
Wise Freelance Writers Manage Time
The wise freelancer uses gaps in contracts. I’ve used mine to prepare invoices, re-write my resume, develop new business, blog and write forward.
Writing forward is about getting ahead. Yes you need a day off. But, writing for next month when you have time puts you in the position where you can accept new projects.
Blogging is obvious. You need to craft a writer identity. It can be different from what you write for others. In fact, many writers get their feet wet with a blog-on-the-side. I did. As a yoga therapist, I wrote about what I knew, then others asked me to write for them. Some initial gigs were free. Others paid.
Also, a blog is useful to drive traffic back to you (SEO 101). It also provides content for your social media feeds.
Be Receptive to Feedback
As freelancer writers, we work both for ourselves and for clients. Working for clients you may or may not get feedback on your submissions. Feedback is your metric, so if you don’t receive it, ask for it. The purpose isn’t to make you feel like the best writer in the whole world. It is to help you achieve optimal performance.
Research and Develop
Many freelancers stress the need to create a niche. Others speak of diversification. My feeling is that freelancer writers have to be in research and development mode. Maybe you are flipping a finance career into writing about finance. You’ll need to follow up on compliance, credible sources etc.
In my own case, my liberal arts background has fueled a strong interest in research. I’m also curious, inquisitive and love to learn. And I’m versatile. I can write for many industries. From education to yoga, mortgages, home decor – pretty much anything. Why?
I like to learn. Learning is vital to digital writers because search is changing. Searchers type and talk. Whatever you write about, just make sure you put in some legwork.
As the programming behind voice search gets more refined — in 2012 the word error rate was over 20%, but now it’s as low as 8% — it’s getting much better at picking up our speech quirks. This means that marketers interested in voice search SEO will need to reflect this in their strategies.
I also follow up on any platforms and tools that I read about. I may not use them now, but it helps me to develop insights. To have conversations with others that might lead to new business. This means I can pitch to a wide variety of potential clients.
Have a Bottom Line
As a freelancer, I work to help clients achieve their bottom line. This could be higher conversion, social engagement etc. At the same time, I have a bottom line.
For instance, I will not write other peoples’ term papers. I mistakenly signed up with VIP Writers thinking it was all about high quality writing. In fact, it is a platform where professional writers (or students) write (Master’s) theses and so on. Not for me. You need to decide where you draw the line. This also goes for your wages.
Yet, there is no clear cut answer to how much freelancer writers make per year. Some writers invoice at a flat rate, or per hour. A platform such as Upwork allows you to submit proposals with either terms. It does take a certain experience to calibrate how many hours each project needs.
Other freelancers bill per monthly retainer for frequent work and may thus extend a volume-based discount. If you are doing any social media, or routine blogging, subscriptions (rolling retainers) are the way to go. Great article by Stanford Business on why subscription services are taking over.
Some jobs pay per word but I am not sure this is favorable to writers. Fluff is out and usable is in, so using fewer words to sell a message is a skill that should pay higher (my view).
How Do I Get Started as a Freelance Writer?
Many freelance writers (I am one) started writing on the side for the pleasure. Do what you love, love what you do – right?
Outside WeWork in Northern Liberties
But enthusiasm aside, you need to treat yourself as a business. So get out there and be fiercely professional, creative and curious.
I am reminded of this because I taught my first restorative yoga class in Philadelphia. It’s a subbing role as I take care of Jodi’s students at Practice Yoga – like I was their aunt.
Yoga and the Art of Business
Neither yoga nor writing is new for me. Memorabilia suggests I wrote (illustrated early) as a youngster. This morphed into other creative writing projects. Back when hand written essays were a thing. Also, because I always wrote in a journal, getting thoughts on a page was – if not easy – then comfortable.
I became a professional writer during this journey. It’s a lot like teaching – you have to convey a message to your student in a way s/he will understand it. Sounds like “marketing to a target audience” to me.
Using Yogic Principles in Business
Many equate yoga with its physical aspect. Twist no shout. But it is actually a philosophical system with broader connotations. Let’s take a look.
Community (sangha)
Talking to a millennial the other day about community. She says today, community is inconvenient. Relationships take time and consistency and people are too busy for it. Hmm.
How do you build community?
“the sangha of, or community, of yoga teachers and students that forms around studios and and other places people practice, provides the kind of social support which scientific evidence suggests benefits health.”[1]
I argue that social media needs to generate shares, not likes. To build that kind of support, you’ve got to actually have someone to track the account and engage. To create and support community. Yes, it takes effort, skill and money. Your community is valuable though. Try and expand it. Understand and help it.
Helpful sells
Friendliness (ahimsa)
Building a community takes a certain friendliness. Friendliness of course, keeps our hearts open. Kindness, friendliness, non-violence and thoughtful consideration of all things is a yogic concept. It is part of a behavior pattern (one of the 5 Yamas) called Ahimsa. In business, friendliness is the basis of customer care. Even Google is going all “helpful” on us if you don’t believe me. See above “was this page helpful?”
At least I do not spend money in stores where the staff is snobby or blows me off. As a business owner, I would never hire anyone to represent me that way either. What are your thoughts?
Drip Marketing – all about nurturing clients and community
See – “Emma noted that nurtured leads make 47% larger purchases”.
Teacher – pupil (learn)
Yoga has taught me to keep learning. To listen for positive guidance and teach what I know. When I started to teach yoga in 1997, I was a voracious reader of yoga books. Remember highlighters and all that paper!? In them, most teachers told their story and how it filtered into their practice.
The knowers who have seen the Truth will instruct you in wisdom.[2]
How do you listen to your students, audience, team?
In business we do the same – keep on trend, read and study. Yet to do this well, it helps to know (and listen to) your audience. What are they asking? How can you answer the questions while staying authentic?
As a professional writer (yoga therapist), I like to know who that audience (student) is so that I can structure the content to reach them. Much like how I would teach a private yoga therapy session. Are you in tune with your audience? Are you limiting that audience for a reason? Does your content convert? Mine does (I am told).
Sattya – Truthfulness
As a writer, I have two distinct boundaries. One to stay clear of writing untruths. I will research and inquire before throwing something ‘out there’.
The other is I will not write someone’s term paper, thesis or dissertation. It feels deceptive. Yes, there are sites which offer this service.
As a teacher, I only teach what I have experienced. For this reason, I have tried to learn from excellent mentors. And, to extract the lesson from teachers I do not agree with. We can only ever have our own voice, even when we are not re-inventing the wheel. Don’t copy what you don’t understand.
I like what the character Jackson Maine said in A Star is Born (2018). “Just tell them what you want to say.” Be truthful in your message. Having integrity is preferable too but let’s leave that one aside. Use an authentic voice. Strive for this in business to build your community.
Jackson Maine: Look, talent comes everywhere, but having something to say and a way to say it so that people listen to it, that’s a whole other bag. And unless you get out and you try to do it, you’ll never know. That’s just the truth. And there’s one reason we’re supposed to be here is to say something so people want to hear. So you got to grab it, and you don’t apologize, and you don’t worry about why they’re listening, or how long they’re going to be listening for, you just tell them what you want to say. Don’t you understand what I’m trying to tell you? Ally: Yeah, I do. I don’t like it, but I understand it. Jackson Maine: Oh, I think you like it a little bit.[3]
Philadelphia is filled with brick and cobblestones. In this way it reminds me of Montreal. Built to endure. I wonder whether the next generation of building materials will leave such a legacy. In 100 years will we re-purpose the structures that are erecting today?
Today’s installment of #livelocal is about 5 lessons I’ve learned through salon hopping. When I lived in Montreal, I was never a salon hopper. No, I built long term relationships with my hairdresser and we were able to develop trust. This hasn’t been the case since I have moved to Philly.
The Opposite of Salon Hopping – Loyalty
On her side, Tania imprinted in her repertoire the way I liked to do my hair. That said, she always asked what I wanted to do and loved it if I let her decide. I showed up on time, as a good client should do. If there was something I didn’t like, the fact that I was loyal made her feel safe enough to weather feedback.
Now Tania – at the time – worked in a small boutique salon. The owner didn’t do any promotions, and along the way, Tania wanted to grow her own business. She asked me what to do. I suggested Pinterest and Instagram which have since worked for her. Even and especially as she made her move to a large salon.
I have picked up some business insight through salon hopping that I want to share with you. As an entrepreneur, yogini and writer all in one, I know how to teach and learn. If we are attentive, we can see this gift and recycle it into useful information.
#1 People are loyal when there is a reason to be
Some background. I left Montreal though still maintain contact with Tania. I appreciate her consistency even more now. I was a loyal client – did not chair hop at all. Until I moved to the states.
For a few brief years in New Jersey, I was also loyal to one salon. However, after I moved more than 10 minutes away (it soon took 45), I made my escape. I say escape because there was one occasion where the salon blamed me for their bad color job. “You asked for that” they said.
No I have dark hair and never asked for a blond streak. You weren’t paying attention because you were over booked and didn’t care all that much about my business. Also, I said I wanted to grow my bangs and you did what you wanted to do. Not what I asked. It was time to break up.
#2 Ride loyalty until its time for a new route.
Break up, take a new direction. If it isn’t working, try something else. Whether you need find a new hairdresser or broaden your online presence with a new strategy.
#3 Communicate clearly.
Communication is key. The type of communication is even more important. A client should give clear directions. Providers need to inform. This way, there is less chance of misunderstanding. Also, both parties, when in doubt, should ask for clarity.
A skillful provider listens and aims to facilitate their client’s goals. Otherwise, the client should re-evaluate (see #1). However, sometimes one receives good advice but doesn’t want to listen. That is on you. Nonetheless, express yourself as the song says.
#4 Trust is built not a given.
Sometimes consistency and resilience builds loyalty. Other times it isn’t in the cards. I have learned to aim for brand loyalty and steady business (trust). To build a regular client portfolio. In tandem, looking for growth and opportunity factors in that life involves some flux.
#5 Not my kind of client/provider
Sometimes the customer or provider is not our ‘kind of client.’ I set this stage so you will understand the type of client I am. You can please me. I give chances when the situation warrants them. I am a professional and expect this in return.
However, since my move to Philadelphia, salon hopping is all I’ve done. Why is that? Here are the top 5 reasons why I won’t go back for more.
Case Study – How Does Salon Hopping Look to a Salon Owner?
Curiosity got the better of me so I turned sleuth and contacted my friend, Cristy Galster. You may know her if you live in Delaware. She owns Robert Cris Salon. I asked her several questions to get first hand insight into the phenomena known as salon hopping.
Christy – Salon Owner
What do you as an award-winning salon do to discourage (and or encourage) salon-hopping?
I absolutely discourage salon hopping. I think the only one who suffers is the client, even though it is their doing. If you’re going to salon-hop, do it for styling only while you interview for a stylist or colorist. Salon hopping and chemical services are never a good idea. The client doesn’t always remember what they told their previous colorist, and the new colorist has no idea what the previous colorist(s) has done to the hair. Too many “cooks in the kitchen” can lead to disastrous results.
To what do you attribute repeat business?
Communication is key!! I prefer to have a consultation with any potential clients so that we can both determine if we are a good fit for each other. In my experience, the consultation is the most important part of the service, but it is always where both parties fall short. Clients try to speak in “our language” which ultimately confuses the professional, and the professional doesn’t ask the right questions which confuses the client. It ends up being a losing situation all the way around. I personally prefer that clients bring pictures so that we can dissect it and fully understand each other.
Do you see any differences between senior and junior stylists?
Junior and senior stylists are totally different. Junior stylists tend to be more passionate, but lack experience. Senior stylists have experience, can still be passionate but are usually not as open to criticism or new techniques because what they’ve done in the past has always worked, which can be the beginning of the end because the beauty industry is about the next new style. You have to stay current in this industry or you will be left behind.
How do you market your salon? advertising, word of mouth etc.
Word of mouth has worked in the past, but with social media our industry has really changed in the last five years. I am currently working on our social media presence as well as revamping our current space. I believe in investing in our clients. What has worked for our employees is to reward our clients with a complementary haircut when they refer a few of their friends to see their stylist. Premiere Philadelphia is a huge industry show that is happening this weekend for the first time. I hope to be inspired as I attend all of the classes. Btw my website needs A LOT of work!!
How Content Strategy Can Help This Business Meet Goals
What’s next? Hopefully we will soon have some kick ass content on Cristy’s site soon. Her aim to invest in her clients can be targeted in our content strategy. For now, this blog has provided her with a back link, some great press, and shareable content. What lessons will you learn today as you #livelocal?
I have loved shopping at local farmers markets for many years. There is not a city I have been in where I haven’t bee-lined my way towards the closest one. Yes, when it comes to markets I am somewhat of a connoisseur. At least at the level of being a consistent user.
Fresh Produce and Business Insights
In Montreal, we had two main markets: the Atwater Market and the Jean Talon Market. Most people choose the one that is closer to them. That wasn’t true for me. I lived closer to the Jean Talon market for several years but still went to Atwater. On days when I wanted the adventure, I would switch it up.
As an entrepreneur, I always felt that much could be harvested (pun intended) from shopping in markets – not supermarkets.
The thing about local farmers markets -for me- was making connections. While not all staff take an interest in making informal (nice to see you again) relationships, some did. For years I went to the same produce stands. I took pleasure in going to my fruit stand. They all recognized me and were very cordial and helpful.
Another stall was devoted to mini vegetables and the best arugula. When I started going to them, the daughter was a girl. Before I moved to the states, she was already married. That’s what I mean about connections.
produce from local farmers market
At my regular stops, we would always greet each other with a “comment ca va?” or “bonjour”. And even though I wasn’t married, there was a “bonjour madame”. Lots of smiles at any rate. To be sure, if I was met with anything less, I would not return to that business. But because of the cultivated pleasantries which many of the businesses extended to their clientele, the markets (JT and AT) expanded. Communities did too. Industrial areas turned residential.
5 Lessons Learned From Local Farmers Markets
Living in Philadelphia, one of my weekly pleasures is to go to one of the local farmers markets. I’ve been to Rittenhouse Square, HeadHouse and Redding Terminal Market. Lately, I go on Sundays to the new market on Front Street near Hope. It is in its initial stages and getting the kinks out.
I’m due for a visit to Redding actually. I know my fish guy Eduard is wondering what happened to me. Al, my butcher already knows I’ve been busy because I ran into him on the El. Point being I still favor the same stalls whether in one city or another. I still favor connecting.
1. Consistency is Key
The local farmers markets I frequent tend to be the friendly ones. The places where you can say “hey my husbands steak was chewy last week. Is it my cooking or should we try a different cut?”. And they say, “try this, I won’t charge full price. You let me know if you like it next week”. There is a certain familiarity involved. I’m not trying to get anything free, but I do typically shop where they earn my business and respond to my needs. In return, they get consistent business. Great ROI.
2. Brand Loyalty is Good For Business
Now if you are someone I don’t buy from, let me explain. Either I just don’t need what you are selling. Or, you are flat out too expensive. I understand you represent fresh and organic. That your product is good quality. No argument.
Peaches at Rittenhouse Square Market
But local farmers markets should want return business (see point #1). All businesses should want return business – what I am even saying! They should spend some time understanding the neighborhood – their client and audience. And many do. It’s what makes them enjoyable to support.
3. Don’t Take Your Audience For Granted
The newest market in Philly that I’m watching is the one in Olde Kensington/Fishtown. There are some things I think are well done, some that are evolving, and some that a few of us are perplexed by. Remember, I build relationships and that involves talking to flesh out interesting data.
The Artists Joined the Outdoor Market on Front Street
I’ll give an example. Around here, the rare house has a flower garden. Apart from the small selection at Acme, I have seen some local florists sell their bouquets both at this new market and at Riverwards.
Now Riverwards is a bit overpriced. But it sells produce that is fresh and local so I do go. I’m definitely drawn to the flower sections at these places, but there is no way I am going to pay $18 + for wild flowers. I feel this price is exorbitant. I can’t justify it my grocery budget. Instead, I’ll just go across to Greensgrow and buy a $5 fern. The few people I mentioned this to agree. Don’t take advantage of your community people. It isn’t going to work for you long term.
4. It’s Not All Luck so Strategize
The wild flower controversy makes me wonder- does this stall have a long term strategy? Do they appreciate the value of consistent buyer loyalty? By comparison, there are some folks who are really making an effort. They seem to want the market to grow and expand. Hellos are interchanged along with very light conversation. Cudos to Lost Bread and Good Spoon.
5. Relationship Building is Key
Relationship building is a cornerstone of successful local businesses. In this case, I am sure the local farmers markets in Philadelphia would agree. I’m certain its a key component of success period. Today’s customer wants to shop where it’s responsive. If not, you wouldn’t care if your site was mobile friendly. FYI if I ever post on your social media feed and you don’t answer, I hit delete. Let’s keep the ‘social’ in social media please.
Check out a local farmers market and see what it teaches you about brand identity, engagement, and strategy. Stop and enjoy the bread, soup, food trucks, PA cider, produce and more along the way. It’s a really nice way to learn and #livelocal.
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