The Alternative Press

MADISON, NJ – Determined vendors faced a scorching afternoon with temperatures in the mid 90s at the Madison farmers market on Thursday, July 12. Despite the blazing heat, customers still made their way to the market to check out what it had to offer.

Every Thursday since June 14, the entire stretch of Waverly Place fills with tents of local businesses selling various food, clothing, and miscellaneous products. Each business sells unique items; consequently the marketplace is competition-free and emits a friendly and bustling atmosphere.

Businesses began setting up tents and merchandise more than an hour before the market began. The tents were lined along the sidewalk so as not to create unnecessary foot traffic. Curious customers walked up and down the street, stopping at every tent even before the market was set to open at 1 p.m.

At one end of the street stood the Secret Garden Soap of Madison tent, a tent that makes an appearance every Thursday at the farmers market. The tent sold soaps, lotions, and gift baskets. Business owner Tracee Palmer explained that she sells three different formulas of soap and each formula has various smells. Some examples are Wisteria, French Lavender, Madison rose, Butt Naked, Love Birds, Innocence, and White Chocolate Truffle. Palmer then said that she makes the soap herself and even milks the goat for the goat milk soaps.

Right next to the soap tent was a combination tent of Gary’s Wine and Marketplace and Down to the Bone BBQ. The venders explained that the two companies were sharing a tent because Gary’s sells Down to the Bone’s barbecue sauce in their store. Ariel, the vendor for Gary’s clarified that although the store does sell alcoholic beverages, the “market” side of the business includes the breads, meats, and cheeses that were being sold at the market. At the tent were samples of some of the items sold at Gary’s, for instance cheese from California and Italy and salami.

Ariel said, “Gary’s is good for anyone interested in throwing a good dinner party.”

Farther down the street was Van Ryzin Designs, a business that sells unique handmade accessories and designs. Various bright-colored clothing, cellphone cases, eyeglass cases, handbags, etc. crowded the tent. George Van Ryzin, the owner of Van Ryzin Designs, said she and her merchandise will be at the market the following Thursday as well.

In addition to these unique tents, the market also offered items that are commonly found at farmers markets: fresh fruits and vegetables, pickled items, bread, grilled meats, flowers, and various types of pasta.

The Madison Farmers Market is open every Thursday until Aug 13 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.