Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie McBee.
Hi Julie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have worked retail for most of my adult life, from Pier 1 Imports to Sales Director at Lavender Hill Farm, helping to run our family business, BC Pizza of Charlevoix.
When my granddaughter was born, I had the luxury of being able to stay home and take care of her, once she started preschool, I knew I wanted to find something that fit her schedule and the market allows me to do that.
I have been Market Manager at Boyne City Farmers Market for a little less than a year.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
For the most part everything has gone pretty smooth. When you are learning and dealing with 80 different vendor personalities it can be a learning experience, that’s for sure. But, through getting to know the vendors on both a person and professional basis, I think we are all happy with where we are. I enjoy my job and look forward to making the market the best it can be, not only for the vendors but for the community.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the go-to person for all of the vendors, incoming applicants and local events like the Harvest Festival. I communicate with all of the vendors and patrons, handle our social media and website, advertising, payments, food programs, musicians, grants, and on the horizon.. classes.
What do I specialize in.. good question.. I would say being creative, organized and communication.
Thus far, I am most proud of getting the amount of advertising/marketing done for the vendors. We were able to place a 3’x5′ sign south of Boyne Falls and will have yard signage on the outskirts of town directing guests to the market. We made new rack cards that will be placed at local businesses and hotels and in rest stop literacy stands as well as new “Market Merch” that consists of a jute tote bag, coffee cups, t-shirts and hoodies so far.
I think what sets me apart from others is that I have my own farm, “Two Bees in a Pod”, so I am able to relate with most of the vendors. I know the hard work and dedication you need to put in; I know the feeling of a crop failure and the joy it brings to share with the community.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I am not sure that I believe in luck. I believe you get back what you put in. I treat others how I want to be treated.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://boynecityfarmersmarket.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BoyneCityFarmersMarket
- Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/biz_info/B3eajh1jhBAv3QABJ4uHeg
