Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market

Q: What is Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market?
A: Visualize the last farmers’ market you attended. You saw a wonderful selection of local farm products from a variety of local vendors. Now imagine getting even more choice and diversity. That’s what Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market offers because the selection of products comes from around the country – even around the world. Internet shoppers at Buy Direct are able to buy honey from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia just as easily as maple syrup products from Vermont or lobsters from Maine.

Q: What is the www.OnlyatFarmersMarket.com website all about?
A: The website is a clearinghouse for people who love farmers’ markets – consumers, vendors, market managers, state and local agricultural and business organizations. With exclusive Feature Stories on exemplary markets  and a Forum to exchange valuable ideas, people who come to the web site are learning why farmers’ markets are so popular and successful. In addition to the exclusive content, www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com  also offers a monthly newsletter called FreshNews, a Daily News feed and now a unique new feature called Buy Direct – The Virtual Farmers’ Market.

Q: Why should I list my farmers’ market related products on Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market?
A: When you list your homemade products on the Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market, you’ll be seen by a global audience of potential customers. www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com targets people who enjoy buying from growers who understand the values of trust and friendship that are hallmarks of the farmers’ market experience. These patrons recognize the unique opportunity of buying direct from vendors who sell at farmers’ markets. As a seller in this environment, Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market becomes an additional store front for your products and a great way to broaden your customer base.

Q: What is a “Reciprocal Link”?
A: In the world of the Internet a reciprocal link creates a way for two web sites to link to one another. Your company’s URL (website address) will be included in the appropriate Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market category and similarly, you will post a reciprocal link to www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com  on your web site. Using this common technique attracts more visitors to our respective sites.

Q: Will a “Reciprocal Link” help me to find additional customers?
A: Definitely! Your listing on “Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market” will send potential customers to your web site to explore your offerings. The more visitors who click your listing the more sales opportunities will be created for you!

Q: What do I need to do to become linked to www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com?
A: It’s easy! First, fill out the Application Form and email to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . You may choose between a free listing and a “Premium” listing. Once your application is approved we’ll email the information you’ll need to place the www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com link on your web site.

Q: I’m not too good at fooling around with computers and websites. Can you coordinate with the person who is responsible for my web site?
A: Yes. We will send all the linking information to you or to your web site coordinator. Essentially it is a small amount of computer “code” that automatically places the www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com link on your existing web site.

Q: Where will you place my listing and how much does it cost to advertise my site on Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market?
A: You may choose to advertise your products in up to two of the 25 categories . If you have a web site and will place a reciprocal link to www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com, you can advertise for free for 6 months. Alternatively, you may choose to purchase a 6 month ($60.00) or 12 month ($99.95) “Premium” listing.

Unlike other web sites, we do not require that you individually register each of your products or that you send a percentage of any sales to us. Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market is not a “middle man” – we simply offer a way for you to advertise and attract new customers. Think of it like putting a classified ad in a worldwide targeted publication. Your 6-month listing is absolutely free! If you choose to purchase a “Premium Listing” the charge is $60 for 6 months or $99.95 for one full year. You may charge the fee by Pay Pal or credit card.

Q: What is the difference between a “Free Listing” and a “Premium Listing”?
A: A free 6-month listing will include the name of your company, your URL (website address) and your location. A Premium Listing  is available any time you would like to apply. In addition to the name of your company, URL and location, a premium listing includes additional space for your company’s logo, a full color photograph of your products as well as an opportunity to promote your offerings with your own advertising copy. A premium listing will stand out on the Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market web page with attractive photography, your logo and greater selling space. You may choose to purchase a 6-month Premium Listing for $60.00 or a full year Premium Listing for $99.95 at any time.

If you are unsure whether Buy Direct – the Virtual Farmers’ Market is for you, try advertising with a Free listing initially and move up to a Premium Listing at any time.

Q: What products can I sell?
A: You can sell any and all of your products that can reasonably be sold at a farmers’ market and can be shipped to your customers. Items like maple syrup, jams and jellies, venison meat, honey, farm crafts, and so forth are perfect for Buy Direct. Perishable commodities however, are not recommended. There are 25 different categories to choose from. You’ll continue to transact, sell and ship your products just as you do now from your farmers’ market booth, CSA or your existing web site.

Q: If I have further questions and would like to speak to someone at www.OnlyatFarmersMarkets.com, what should I do?
A: Feel free to contact Bob Rand at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or (603) 964-5001. We’d love to talk with you.