About Us

FEES & PAYMENT

Q: What are the vendor fees? A: Farmers/Producers: $10 | Prepared Foods: $25 | Artisans/Crafters: $25 | Food Trucks: $35 | Resellers: $35 | Non-profits: $10 | Professional Services: $50

Q: When do I pay booth fees? A: Fees are due by 7:30 AM each market day or can be prepaid through our subscription program and online booking.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept? A: Cash, check, or online payment through our vendor portal.

Q: What if I can't attend a market day I've paid for? A: No refunds for missed market days. With 48-hour notice, you may receive a credit toward future market dates (limited to twice per season).

 

MARKET OPERATIONS

Q: What time can I set up? A: Setup begins at 6:30 AM. Please do not arrive earlier as this disrupts our site preparation.

Q: When can I break down my booth? A: Breakdown may begin after 1:00 PM market closing. No early breakdowns allowed.

Q: What if it rains? A: We operate rain or shine. Only severe weather conditions will cancel the market, and you'll be notified by 5:00 AM.

Q: Can I leave during market hours? A: Vendors should remain at their booths during market hours (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) to serve customers.

 

BOOTH REQUIREMENTS

Q: What do I need to bring? A: 10'x10' tent/canopy, tables, chairs, displays, tent weights (minimum 25 lbs per leg), and all products/materials.

Q: Is electricity available? A: Limited electricity is only available at the pavilion. It is currently allocated. 

Q: Can I use a generator? A: Quiet/inverter generators only, with advance approval from market management.

Q: What about parking? A: Vendor parking is available immediately behind your booth on-site.

 

PRODUCT GUIDELINES

Q: Can I sell items I didn't make/grow? A: Farmers may resell up to 20% of their offerings (clearly labeled). < Read this as 80% of products must be locally grown. Artisans must create items themselves. Resellers have a separate category with different fees.

Q: Can I offer samples? A: Food samples are encouraged but must follow proper food safety protocols. Bring your own sample supplies.

Q: What products are not allowed? A: Live animals (except special events), alcohol, tobacco, CBD/cannabis products, weapons, and offensive materials are prohibited.

Q: Do I need special permits for food items? A: Yes. Food vendors need DHEC permits, food handler certification, and must follow all health department regulations.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

Q: How do I find out my booth assignment? A: Booth assignments are emailed every Thursday evening by 9 p.m. for the upcoming Saturday market.

Q: How will you contact me about weather or emergencies? A: We use email and text messaging. Please keep your contact information current. If a weather emergency happens during the market, public announcements will be made. 

Q: Can I promote my business at the market? A: Yes! Bring business cards, brochures, and promotional materials. Tag us on social media @highway78market for features.

 

SPECIAL EVENTS

Q: Can I participate in special events? A: Most special events are open to all vendors. Some may have additional requirements or fees, which will be communicated in advance.

Q: Do I need to decorate my booth for themed events? A: Participation in themed decorations is encouraged but not required. We often have contests with prizes for best decorated booths.

Q: Can I bring additional items for special events? A: Yes, but all items must still comply with market rules and your vendor category guidelines.

 

ATTENDANCE & CANCELLATIONS

Q: Do I have to attend every week? A: No, but consistent attendance helps build customer relationships and may qualify you for a permanent booth location.

Q: How do I cancel my attendance? A: Provide at least 48 hours notice by email or phone. This helps us communicate with customers and plan booth assignments.

Q: What happens if I don't show up without notice? A: Three unexcused absences may result in loss of market privileges.

 

INSURANCE & LIABILITY

Q: What insurance do I need? A: All vendors should carry general liability insurance with minimum $1M coverage and name Dorchester Heritage Center as additional insured.

Q: What if a customer gets hurt at my booth? A: Your liability insurance should cover incidents at your booth. Report any incidents to market management immediately.

Q: Am I covered by the market's insurance? A: No, each vendor needs their own liability coverage.

 

CUSTOMER INTERACTIONS

Q: Can I collect customer contact information? A: Yes, but follow appropriate privacy practices and use information responsibly.

Q: What if I have a dispute with a customer? A: Handle concerns professionally and contact market management if assistance is needed.

Q: Can customers return items? A: Each vendor sets their own return policy. The market does not handle returns.

 

VENDOR COMMUNITY

Q: Can I collaborate with other vendors? A: Absolutely! We encourage vendor partnerships and cross-promotion.

Q: How do I communicate with other vendors? A: We maintain a vendor communication group and encourage networking during market hours.

Q: What if I have issues with another vendor? A: Address concerns directly and professionally. Contact market management if resolution is needed.

 

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

Q: Can I sell at other farmers markets? A: Yes, we don't require exclusivity, though we appreciate your commitment to our market.

Q: What if I want to change my product offerings? A: Notify market management of significant changes. New products must still comply with your vendor category.

Q: Can I refer other vendors to the market? A: Yes! We welcome referrals and may offer incentives for successful vendor referrals.

 

Still have questions? Contact us at:

• Phone: (360) 340-7344

• Email: hhfarms189@gmail.com

• Website: www.highway78fm.com

We're here to help you succeed at Highway 78 Farmers Market!