One of the big problems I have come across farming is not the production, but the selling. If you don't want to sell your products on the commodity markets (where economies of scale make it virtually impossible for a small farmer to make much money) or you don't have enough of a product to sell that way (syrup is sold by the 55 gallon drum) you've got to sell it yourself. But when you are not a vivacious and outgoing person by nature, this is not always easy.
I felt down right embarrassed when the man selling us our new arch told us he sold 300 gallons of syrup every year from his dooryard when I felt it was a Heruclean accomplishment to sell our 30 gallons. However, I have vowed to redouble my efforts this season. My plan is to write to local csas and ask them if they would like to buy in our maple products, also to have a sign at the farm in addition to our website. I drew some nice pictures of me and Peter sugaring to go along with the letter and for tags and stuff. Who doesn't love that shit?
So here's to hoping that this year is an easier sell than last (and it better be because next year we're planning on making twice as much syrup).
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How about marketing to churches and fire houses for annual pancake breakfasts!
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