I’ve always had a deep love for DeQuincy. It’s the place I grew up, the place that shaped so many of my memories, and the place that still feels like home in every sense of the word. The people here are truly some of the best you’ll ever meet, kind, supportive, and always willing to show up for one another. That’s something I’ve never taken for granted.

As I’ve gotten older and started raising my own family here, that love has only grown. I’ve found myself thinking more intentionally about the kind of experiences my girls will have and the memories they’ll carry with them one day. I want them to grow up in a place where they feel connected, where there’s life and joy in the community, and where they can see firsthand what it looks like when people have the courage to show up, to create, and to contribute something meaningful.

That’s really where my heart behind the DeQuincy Farmers Market began.

To me, the market is an example of courageous expression in its simplest and most beautiful form. It’s people taking something they’ve created, whether it’s handmade, homegrown, or built from an idea they’ve carried for a long time, and choosing to share it. That takes courage. It takes courage to put your work out there, to believe it has value, and to invite others to be part of it.

It wasn’t just about creating an event. It was about creating a space where that kind of courage could be seen and supported. A space where families can spend time together, where kids can run around and enjoy being part of something fun and meaningful, and where our community can gather in a way that feels natural and welcoming. I wanted something my girls could grow up experiencing, something they would look forward to, and something that would become part of their childhood the same way small town moments were part of mine.

At the same time, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for small businesses, the courage it takes to start something, the creativity behind it, and the heart that goes into building it. We have so much local talent here, especially when it comes to handmade and homegrown goods, and I wanted to create a place where that could truly be seen and supported. A place where local vendors have an opportunity to grow, to be recognized, and to connect with the people they’re serving.

The DeQuincy Farmers Market has become a reflection of that courage. It’s watching families gather and make memories, while also watching individuals take brave steps forward in their journey. Every booth represents someone who decided to try, to create, and to share a piece of themselves with the community. And to me, that’s what makes it so meaningful.

My heart behind the market is simple. I love this town. I’m grateful for what it’s given me, and I want to give back in a way that helps it continue to grow and thrive. If I can play even a small part in creating a space where people feel encouraged to express their gifts and pursue what’s been placed on their hearts, then I feel that the market has done its job.