Running a farm isn’t just about planting and harvesting, it’s about building relationships with your community, too. Whether you’re at a busy farmers market, running a CSA program, selling from a roadside stand, or working with wholesale buyers, connecting with your customers can make all the difference. Here are some practical, creative ideas to boost your outreach and bring more people to your produce, pasture-raised meat, flowers, or value-added goods.

1. Tell Your Story Everywhere

People love knowing where their food comes from and who grows it. Use social media, newsletters, or a small flyer at your stand to tell folks your story. Share photos of planting, harvesting, or life on the farm. Don’t worry about it being “perfect”, authenticity builds trust and loyalty.

Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, just share why you started farming or your favorite part of the season.

2. Offer a “Pick of the Week” or Recipe Card

Make shopping easier and more fun by showcasing a weekly special, maybe heirloom tomatoes, or pasture-raised eggs. Add a simple recipe or cooking tip using what you’re selling. Customers love leaving with ideas, not just ingredients.

Bonus: If you’re emailing CSA members or customers, include this in your weekly update.

3. Use Local Facebook Groups and Community Boards

Local Facebook groups are goldmines for reaching new customers. Search for town-specific buy/sell groups, foodies groups, or parenting communities. Post updates about where you’ll be, what you’re bringing, or any special offers.

Don’t forget local libraries, coffee shops, and post offices- physical bulletin boards still work!

4. Create a Simple Loyalty Program

Repeat customers are your bread and butter. Whether it’s a punch card (“Buy 9 dozen eggs, get the 10th free”) or a monthly raffle for CSA members, small rewards keep people coming back.

5. Collaborate with Local Businesses

Pair up with nearby bakeries, breweries, restaurants, or even yoga studios. Offer cross-promotions or bundle products together. For example, “Farm Fresh Friday” veggie boxes picked up at a local café, or a limited CSA add-on of fresh bread or honey from a neighbor.

6. Go Live (Even for 60 Seconds)

Live video on Instagram or Facebook isn’t just for influencers. A quick clip of your morning harvest or setting up at market helps people feel part of your process and reminds them to come visit!

7. Wholesale? Build Relationships, Not Just Orders

If you’re selling wholesale to grocers, co-ops, or restaurants, go beyond the invoice. Drop off a few extra samples, provide signage they can use to show your farm name, and check in regularly. You’re not just selling lettuce, you’re helping them build their brand, too.

8. Make Your Stand Inviting

For farmers markets or roadside stands, a little curb appeal goes a long way. Bright signage, clean displays, and clear prices make people stop. Offer small samples (when possible) and be ready to chat without pressure.

Remember: People are often looking for a connection as much as a cucumber.

9. Email Is Still King

If you can, start collecting emails with a signup sheet or QR code. A simple weekly email about what’s fresh, where to find you, and a personal note builds a loyal base, especially for CSA members or repeat market shoppers.

10. Ask for the Share

Word-of-mouth is powerful. Ask happy customers to share your page, bring a friend, or leave a review. A small nudge can turn one happy shopper into three.

Whether you’re new to direct sales or a farmers market veteran, there’s always room to grow your reach. At the heart of it all, just remember: People want to support farmers like you- they just need help finding you and a reason to stay.

Keep planting. Keep connecting. You’re doing important work.