The founders of the Three Hoes Farm, Robin, Nancy and Dave have always had an enthusiastic love of the outdoors.  Robin, Dave’s mom raised her son in wholesome surroundings, either at home or at the beautiful Canadian lake property where they spent many summers.  Dave, with his “creative imagination” was instrumental in the development of the Three Hoes Farm name during a brainstorming session for the Gatlinburg Farmers Market in which ideas were tossed about for possible bumper stickers.  Nancy worked for the National Park Service “where she learned about the environment and natural processes of plants and animals and the importance of creating a balanced ecosystem (and life).”

Nancy believes that “eating the right foods is so important in creating a healthy lifestyle” and homegrown produce figures prominently in that belief.  Robin, Nancy and Dave believe strongly that the fruits and vegetables we grow ourselves are far superior to the produce found in grocery stores as far as nutrition is concerned (and we couldn’t agree more).  Therefore it seems natural that the Three Hoes Farm would not only want to grow and nurture their own gardens but also to share the bounty with their community.

The Three Hoes Farm, located in Newport, TN is blessed with amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains and six and a half acres of rock free soil that was former pasture land.  The trio has continued to restore and improve the property by planting trees and vegetation while also increasing their garden sites.  They have shared their pesticide free produce at the Gatlinburg Farmers Market for many years not only because it is “a fun place to be every Saturday” but also because “it is a great social outlet” and “sharing recipes and tips on how to grow food the healthiest way are an added benefit” according to Robin, keeper of many “tried and true” recipes.
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Robin, Nancy and Dave invite you to come to the Gatlinburg Farmers Market to sample their marvelous preserves, plants, and produce every Saturday. We are all grateful for their participation and enthusiasm for local, healthy produce.

​Lisa Line has been with the Gatlinburg Farmers Market from its inception. She was prompted by a fellow vendor, Allyson Virden, to bring some of her beautiful strawberries to the market. Lisa has brought fresh produce to market every season since for the simple reason that, "It was fun". 

Lisa has continued expanding upon the items she grows learning by trial and error and by partaking in the farmers market where everyone is willing to share their knowledge.  Along the way Lisa has learned that shallots and garlic grow well in her area but the figs have proven to be a bit more of a challenge.  As evidence of her growing garden and fabulous green thumb Lisa will bring beets, red onions, sugar snap peas, turnips, kale and broccoli to market this week.  All fresh from the garden and beautifully presented.  

Lisa enjoys the camaraderie with fellow vendors and patrons alike. Lisa's philosophy regarding the Gatlinburg Farmers Market is one we can all support:  "Together we are building a community institution that makes this a more enjoyable place to live! 

And we are all thankful that Lisa is with us for our 7th season! 

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1.  Be There
     Every success story begins with the first step--showing up.  Quite likely the customers you see at the first market of the season  will be there at the end of the season.  Attending the local farmers market and supporting local food are important to your customers.  If you are set up on a consistent basis with a quality product, your customers will look for you every week.            

2.  Critique Your Display
      Does your display invite customers to stop and look at your product?  Is it clean with no clutter?  Be sure to get out from behind your display throughout the day to make sure it's looking its best.

3.  Price it Right
     Hopefully your customers are looking at your product first but secondly, they will look for price.  Be sure to label everything clearly and consistently.  Customers don't want to guess at prices and many won't ask!

4.  What's Your Story
      People can buy their produce anywhere but they come to their local market because they want to know where their food comes from--they want to know you--the farmer.  Let them know why you are doing this and how you got here.

5.  Only the Best
      Again, people can buy their produce anywhere including their local supermarket but the advantage of a farmers market is freshness and quality.  Protect your product from the blazing sun and consider using blemished produce in value-added products such as jams and pickles.

6. Share Stuff
     Who doesn't love a freebie?  Can you offer samples of your product?  Or maybe some interesting recipes printed out on card stock to send home with your customers--this is especially useful if you are offering an unfamiliar product.

7.  Converse
      Engage with your customers. Learn who they are and what they are looking for.  You are the difference between your customer's supermarket experience and their market experience.  Let them see how much you enjoy what you do!

Happy Market Days!