Farmers Market at the Capitol brings Michigan vendors to Lansing

• The Capitol Farmers Market was hosted by the Michigan Farmers Market Association on Tuesday.
• The event brought vendors from across Michigan to the Capitol lawn.
• Merchants talk about the importance of shopping small and how small businesses strengthen the local economy.

The Farmers Market at the Capitol brings vendors from across Michigan to the Capitol lawn on Tuesday. I’m your local reporter Ava Zanglin, speaking with vendors about the importance of supporting small businesses.

The first of three farmers markets took place at the Capitol on Tuesday.

“We’re really celebrating retailers and small businesses from across Michigan that source ingredients grown, raised or produced in Michigan. We’re highlighting the best that Michigan agriculture has to offer,” said Amanda Shrave.

Founded in 2006, the Michigan Farmers Market Association works to connect consumers with local farms and businesses.

“We love the farmers market because of the community. We love not only the vendors, but also the customers, the people who keep coming back,” said Kari Stoplestad.

The event, located in the heart of Central Michigan, featured over fifty vendors and food trucks representing businesses from both parts of the state.

“In Michigan, we are unique. Uniquely made in Michigan. When you come here, you see a lot of different things, and we don’t just stay in Detroit, we travel everywhere,” said Deirdre Johnson.

Deirdre, owner of Detroit Cocoa Bar, emphasized the importance of supporting the small business community.

“I’m also a buyer, you know, I sell, but I also visit each and every one of them and I support each and every vendor and buy from them,” Johnson said.

Amanda Shrave, executive director of the Michigan Farmers Market Association, said supporting local businesses strengthens the local economy.

“Local companies are more likely to reinvest their profits and buy more locally,” Shrave said.

According to Shrave, this creates a multiplier effect and supports local entrepreneurs.

“It’s just important to support the community. Whether you live in the community or outside of it,” Johnson said.

The next Capitol Farmers Market will be on August 27th.

In Lansing, I’m Ava Zanglin, Fox 47.