If you’ve ever walked past a beautifully set-up booth and thought, “Wow, this looks so fun!”, you’re not wrong.
But there’s a whole world behind the displays, shimmer mists, and aesthetic labels that most people never see.
This post is for those curious about what it really takes to bring Merle’s Garden to life at markets.
The Prep Starts Way Before Show Day
Every festival starts with hours, sometimes days of prep.
That means:
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Checking and restocking inventory
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Making fresh batches of best-sellers (hello, Cocoa Cashmere!)
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Printing and cutting labels
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Packing shelves, signs, props, bags, card reader, price signs, paper towels, and extra everything
It’s not just about the products, it’s about creating an experience. Every detail matters.
Early Mornings, Long Days & Lots of Coffee
Market days start around 5–6 AM. I load up my car (like I’m playing the ultimate game of Tetris), drive to the venue, and start setup. Usually solo or with my husband's help.
By 10 AM, I’m smiling and ready, even if I’m running on four hours of sleep and a prayer.
From the moment the gates open, I’m talking, educating, selling, sharing my story, and connecting. It’s beautiful. It’s exhausting. It’s worth it.
The Unexpected Moments
Festivals never go 100% to plan. Some wild moments I’ve faced:
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Sudden downpours soaking my tablecloths and products
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A forgotten Square reader (shoutout to Venmo and Zelle)
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Wind gusts knocking my testers down
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Selling out of top products by noon (best problem to have!)
These moments test you, but they also remind you, you’re doing something real.
Why I Keep Showing Up
Because customers come back with stories.
Because someone will smell a perfume and say, “This reminds me of my grandmother.”
Because a stranger tells me, “This is exactly what I needed today.”
Markets aren’t just about sales. They’re about connection. They’ve helped me build a community that believes in Merle’s Garden as much as I do.
What I’ve Learned
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Always overpack. Even if you think you won’t need it, bring it.
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Invest in good display pieces. Visuals matter. ( I can't tell you how many times I've heard "Can I just say, you have the prettiest display here!")
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Talk to your booth neighbors. They often become friends, helpers, and your biggest supporters.
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Stay flexible. Because no matter how much you plan, the unexpected will always show up.
A Shoutout to the Market Hustlers
To every small business owner loading their car at sunrise, setting up with wind in their hair and determination in their heart...I see you.
It’s not easy. But it’s beautiful. And I’ll keep showing up, tent and tables in tow, because the magic happens out there, face to face.