Bloomington Market

Today was our first trip to the Bloomington Market. We were unable to make it opening day last weekend due to the flash floods and heavy rains. Well, it was worth the wait.

• The spot for our booth is perfect - on Main, right off of Front Street - right across from a parking garage - so convenient for guests.
• The weather was incredible - sunny with a slight breeze.
• We met and spoke with many new guests and JAVA fans!

And, we can't wait to go back. Definitely worth getting up at 4:30 am and traveling for over an hour to the market. Downtown Bloomington is charming and the market is full of artisans, Illinois growers, one-of-a-kind products and so much more!

Brian and I will be unable to attend the markets next weekend, Saturday, May 30th. We have a prior commitment in Chicago to 'pitch our product'/business' to a magazine. Here's hoping we inspire and amaze and that we're selected to be showcased in a future issue! You don't know unless you try...and we're going to try. Wish us luck?!

Look for us on Saturday, June 6th to rejoin the markets!

Until then, have a safe and memorable holiday weekend!

-Jamie Knoll

Ottawa Old Town Farmer's Market

Saturday, May 9th was the opening day of market season for JAVA & Co. We attended the Ottawa Old Town Farmer's Market in Ottawa, Illinois. It was a charming setting - downtown, with tents set-up along their beautiful park - flowers were in bloom and...it was SUPER windy. Did I say it was windy? During set-up our tent nearly became a 'cold' air balloon wanting to launch right there in the street. And yet, there wasn't any rain, so we were very thankful. We met many wonderful guests and fellow vendors; purchased fresh cut asparagus - what a treat - and since Saturday - we have grilled and consumed the entire 2 pounds of asparagus we purchased - YUM! There is nothing like the true flavor of freshly cut, from-the-farm vegetables.

In our off market season, we have been busy creating new products (JAVA Spice - Meat & Seafood Rub, JAVA infused Granola, JAVA Snack Bars, Lemon Iced Biscotti) and we brought a sampling of these to the Ottawa Market. I'm glad to say, they were a hit! So watch for us at the following markets this year. We will be rotating among the following three, plus grabbing markets in other cities as opportunities arise. JAVA & Co. (so far) hasn't been kept away by rain, wind or thunderstorms.

Ottawa Old Town Farmer's Market May 9th through October 24th, 2009

Saturdays, 8:00 am to 12:30 pm

Bloomington Farmer's Market May 16th through October 31st, 2009

Saturdays, 7:30 am to 12:00 Noon

Peoria Riverfront Market June 6th through September 26th, 2009

Saturdays, 8:00 am to 12:00 Noon

We plan to attend Bloomington's opening day this Saturday on the 16th of May. Stop by our syrup cabana. Brian and I would love to meet you!

Cheers,

Jamie Knoll