BEAUTIFUL SETTING … Why should the Farmers Market end when the weather gets cold? Owners of Parlor 1861 think it shouldn’t. Seen here in their gathering place, are Ashley, on the left, and her mom Kathy Davis. (PHOTO BY REBECCA MILLER, STAFF)
By: Rebecca Miller
Bryan, Ohio business owners along with others in Williams County, continue to step up to meet the challenges of the modern-day economy.
Coming up with creative ways to draw the public to frequent Downtown Bryan has been an active focus for the Chamber of Commerce and the Bryan Area Foundation, which was recently witnessed by the great draw that the first Annual Christkindle Market held in November and December of 2021.
Individual businesses are also desirous of encouraging area residents to shop locally and to come enjoy all that is available on The Square in Bryan.
One such business is “Parlor 1861”, a delightful event space that opened in August of 2021 on the east side of the Square.
Their description, “an event rental space that has been updated, with original elements restored, to give the space a vintage feel, with modern touches,” makes one want to immediately schedule an event there.
Stepping inside will cement that desire as the space is so much prettier than any picture could show. The chairs alone will grab the attention as they were chosen with care and are so inviting.
The owners also have placed acoustic panels up near the ceiling to absorb the sound which can be overwhelming in old places with high ceilings.
This lovely new space is owned and operated by the Davis family made up of Brian, Kathy, and their two daughters Ashley (Justin Pardee) and Kayleigh (Andrew Nofziger).
Recently they were blessed to be given the February Spotlight Award by the Bryan Development Foundation for “commitment to improving” the city of Bryan.
Besides all the scheduled private events they have on the calendar for this year, they will be hosting a Winter Farmers Market during the months of February, March and April.
The first is scheduled for Saturday, February 19th from 9-noon. Ashley, who is setting up this event, shared that they have eight or nine local non-storefront businesses/vendors scheduled for this date and are still hoping to add at least two more.
She has gathered quite a long list of area artisans and farmers who participate in the Farmers Market on the Square as well as others who are interested in bringing their wares to share with the community.
“It is so important that we all support each other in our community and this idea came from our desire to do that,” Ashley said.
“Ft. Wayne has a year-round Farmers Market and we thought what a great idea!” Parlor 1861 is a perfect setting as it will hold up to eighty people.
With eight to ten vendors and people wandering in and out over the three hours, it should be a comfortable setting for folks to get some great items that are usually only available to everyone during the spring through fall months.
Presently the list of vendors includes Carlin Honey, Bernard’s Bagels, Willow Lane Kitchen, Rooster Ridge Farms, Gary Crider Maple Syrup, House Daggett Roasters and Higgins Homemades. Kathy pointed out that the Bryan Co-op will also have a table to share information and grow their membership.
The family hopes to keep this going, running from October through April each year, the months when the farmers market on the square is not available for the vendors to sell their wares.
The one scheduled in April this year is right before Easter so they are hoping the vendors will have some Easter themed treats and goodies for sale.
Parlor 1861 was open on the first Friday night in December as part of the Christkindle/Bryan Square event. They also plan to participate in the Spring Fling on May 21 and Barn/Fall Fest on the fourth Saturday in September.
“We want to give back to the community,” Ashley shared. “We want everyone to know that we have these great artisans. This can boost their business and help them financially as many of them hold other jobs as well as making homemade items.”
“This Winter Farmer’s Market gives them another way to share their love for what they do. We all need to make the world a better place in whatever way we can.”
Shopping locally is not only good for the local economy, it is healthier for the shoppers.
So… besides all the weddings, receptions, workshops, business meetings, baby and bridal showers and birthday parties that will be held in this sweet spot, area folks can now come and enjoy this Winter Farmer’s Market!
Plan to stay for the day on The Square, enjoying some delicious coffee and lunch, getting your hair done, maybe having that tattoo put on that you keep thinking about, buying some new clothes, and checking out all of the individual businesses available to you.
Wrap up the day at Kora’s Brew House and Wine Bar, listening to the voice of Minda Walborn from 6:30-9:30.
Start this Saturday, February 19th, and put March 19 and April 16 on your calendar as well.
Rebecca can be reached at rebecca@thevillagereporter.com
