Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Cerda.
Hi Kristen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Our journey began at Muddy Boots Farm, a dream my family and I cultivated right on our small farm. As we grew, we started sharing our canned goods, jams, and sauces at local farmers markets. Each market was a chance to connect with other small producers, and soon, we knew we wanted to create something bigger, a home for all of us. That’s how The Farm Market Co-Op was born. We moved from the markets to downtown Memphis, where at 300 S. Main, we opened a space that’s not just a store, but a gathering place. Our focus is on family, small businesses, and a thriving agricultural community. While we’ve refined our vendor list, it’s still all about those personal connections and the passion for bringing the farm closer to the city.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s truly been a rewarding journey, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the toughest lessons we learned was that retail and markets are very different worlds. Shifting into brick-and-mortar in downtown Memphis meant we had to pivot and adapt in ways we didn’t fully anticipate. Some of the vendors who started with us simply weren’t able or willing to make that shift. Letting them go, or seeing them choose to leave, was one of the hardest decisions we’ve had to make. But through all of that, we’ve stayed committed to this path. It’s been a fun, enriching ride, and every day we’re more grateful for the community we’re building.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As I look at what I do, it’s really a reflection of my love for community, agriculture, and connection. Now, six months into The Farm Market Co-Op, I’m still evolving in how we define ourselves, but what we’ve come to is a true community store. We’re a dynamic space, meeting the needs of the neighborhood. We started with a passion for small-batch goods, and today we’ve grown into a hub for sustainable fashion, fresh produce, and a kitchen where we create wholesome, made-from-scratch meals. In essence, my profession is about listening to the community, curating what matters most, and providing a vibrant, ever-evolving place for people to gather, shop, and thrive.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding a mentor and building a network is absolutely critical—especially for us, coming from a rural background and stepping into a downtown Memphis scene. These urban spaces are a whole different world, with different rhythms, flavors, and expectations. I can’t emphasize enough how much my mentors have guided me—they’ve helped me understand the nuances of retail in the city, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them. And on top of that, networking—oh, it’s non-negotiable. If you don’t put yourself out there, if you don’t build those relationships, it’s so hard to thrive. But once you do, once you connect, the possibilities really open up.
Pricing:
- Our popular Brown Bag Lunch $11.99
- Sustainable Clothing (2nd hand resale)
- Most shirts $9.99
- Most dresses $12.99
- Average produce $2.50lb or $1 each
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thefarmmarketco-op.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_farm_market_co_op/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Farm-Market-Co-Op-61578711930582/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-cerda-0628tc
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/T20KmhScTk
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/p/Muddy-Boots-Farm-and-Coops-61575816865965/
