Kelso Farmers Market

This regular market takes place in the town square on the 4th Saturday of each month from 0930-1330.

In May I did my first market in years.  My aim was to talk to as many people as possible and get some feedback on our new products.  When you predominantly sell online its important to get direct feedback on your products.  It was a glorious sunny day and I was pleased to see the market square fill up with shoppers.  There was a good mix of visitors from the local area and tourists, all keen to see a variety of local artisan products.

How did it go?

The first sale of the day came quickly, from a local fisherman who loves our new twisted style headband.  He has a huge collection of hats so the headband was a welcome addition to his outdoor wardrobe.  This one was a mix of yellow, black, red and royal blue.  It’s nice and bright, so you’ll be able to spot him easily in the river.

Throughout the morning I spoke to lots of people, some who had bought from us before and some new to the brand.  It was lovely to meet Ruth from Galashiels.  In 2014 she fell in love with the Snow Fairy design from our Christmas competition.  Later when we released the design as a limited edition she snapped one up.  Ruth told me she wears it every time she goes hill walking with her dog Ollie.  A few years ago she sent us a lovely picture of her and Ollie at the top of a mountain in her beloved hat.  Having chatted online and shared her story on our Facebook page, it was really lovely to meet her in person.

At the end of the day

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a maker is when you meet people who are happy to find you.  It’s fantastic to know they love what you’ve created and that its made a positive impact.  The reason we use the hashtag hatsforallreasons is because it’s true, each hat has a reason.  Everyone can wear one but the reasons behind it will be varied, which is always interesting to find out.

I’m really looking forward to the market again this weekend, pop along to see what we have been up to.

Thanks, Alison