Setting Up Your Farmers Market Party

The concept of an at-home market is easy to pull off. On your invitation, ask your guests to bring homemade crafts or food with them; everyone will need to bring enough for each guest. On the day of your party, you and your guests will display your creations and “shop” the farmers market. Each guest will end the party with a pile of mementos to take home.

You don’t need separate stalls to make your party feel like a true farmers market. Instead, set up one large table for everyone to group their items on. Use a tablecloth or table runner so the theme feels coherent when your guests’ items are lined up on display.

At the end of your table, set up a small section with items that will help your guests set up their “booths.” You can include a stack of blank placards so that guests can write a description of their items, and add platters, baskets, and bins for guests to choose from for displaying their wares.

The farmers market table will do most of the heavy lifting in terms of decor, but fresh flower arrangements and a homemade “Farmers Market” sign are sweet additions that will make your space feel like a proper market.

For the final touch, add a pile of baskets near your display table. To “shop” the farmers market, guests can grab a basket and fill it with goods. Thrift stores and craft stores are great places to find affordable baskets to use.

What to Bring to an At-Home Farmers Market

The best part about hosting a farmers market at home is that your guests can bring anything they want to share. If you want to add a few ideas to your invitation—or need inspiration for your own wares—there are a few market staples to consider.

Handicrafts

Beaded accessories—like bracelets and bag charms—are simple to make, which makes them great for a group. Small hand-painted or sketched postcards are another fun item to hand out. If you crochet, sew, or embroider, consider small accessories like a keychain or coin purse. Soaps are a farmers market must-have; take the easy route by purchasing a block of craft soap, melting it down, and adding your favorite soap-safe colors and scents.

Baked Goods

There’s no such thing as a farmers market without food. If you aren’t feeling particularly crafty, food is a good route to take. Whip up some scones, cookies, or pound cake, and portion them into pastry bags for guests to grab. You could also put together small jars of homemade jam; tying a gingham cloth to the lid will give your jar an artisan look.

Garden Crops

If you have an indoor herb garden or other produce you want to share, wash it and display it in a basket for guests to grab. You could also arrange miniature bouquets from grocery store flowers to share with partygoers.