By: Taylor Arens - Journal Staff
The first ever Crofton Market in the Park was on June 19 from 5-7 p.m. in the city South Park.
This event was originally suggested at, and is a result of an ECAP survey, now coming into fruition.
There were 18 vendors at the Market in the Park. It was a large affair, bringing local businesses lots of business. Even with the event only lasting two hours, it was busy from beginning to end, with some vendors even selling out before it was over.
Farmer’s market committee head Susie Hillman was pleased with the outcome with a message to the community, “I am so proud of this community! It shows a real community spirit. I cannot thank everyone enough for coming. I also want to thank the Crofton Journal for their support, Michael Guenther for his electricity, Kim Sawatzke for marketing help, Haley Hillman Schmidt and Ted Hillman for their help and Crofton Village Board for all they do!”
This project began as a result of the ECAP meetings and started with research by Hillman and her committee. Searching for vendors, figuring out how to run a farmer’s market, and more.
Hillman said when looking for vendors she started asking people and then it seemed like people just wanted to be a part of it. Advertisements for the event went through Facebook, the Crofton Journal, and handing out flyers. Hillman also saw this as a way to bring people to town and display local talent.
Vendors were also pleased with the outcome of the event. Heather Hegge, owner of Handmade by Heather, spoke on the turnout for the event, “I enjoyed being at the Farmer’s Market in the Park! It was wonderful seeing so many people in the park! Susie Hillman did a great job organizing this and it was a wonderful turnout!”
The event will continue through the last Friday in September, with many vendors coming back each week. Although numbers will vary each week, local talent will continue to be displayed. “I would like to let everyone know that this is going to continue. We will have different vendors frequently and that nothing is too crazy for Crofton Market at the Park. I like to think of this as a farmers market, arts in the park, flea market and social event. I hope if anyone knows any local that would like to become a vendor or would like to sing or play please contact us.” Hillman explained.
If you would like to be a vendor for Market in the Park at any point during the season, be sure to reach out to any of the committee members: Susie Hillman, Curt Arens, Taylor Arens, Esther or Todd Fischer, Norma Keuhler, or Erin Filips.