Middleville market approves one-day free trial for new vendors and new digital tools

At its Aug. 5 meeting the Middleville DDA approved a one-day free market trial for first-time vendors and authorized purchase of digital-content subscriptions to support market and downtown marketing.

Cassie proposed allowing first-time vendors who have never participated in the Middleville market to have one free market day to try the event without the usual fee. "I am formally requesting that the board approves the allowance of a one-day only free market day," Cassie said, explaining some small or roadside producers are reluctant to pay the fee without first testing turnout. Board members supported the idea and discussed complementary steps including better marketing, a vendor list in advance, and post-event surveys to track vendor experience.

The board also approved an annual purchase of three digital tools: Canva Pro, CapCut Pro and Epidemic Sound, which Cassie said will help the DDA produce higher-quality graphics and videos for event promotion and vendor outreach.

Board members raised operational questions about whether a single free day might discourage vendors if turnout is poor and recommended surveying vendors about timing and preferred hours. The motion to provide the one-day free vendor trial and the motion to purchase the marketing subscriptions were both approved by roll call.

Why this matters: the market is an economic-support strategy for downtown that aims to increase foot traffic and support local businesses. The free trial and improved marketing tools are intended to lower barriers for new vendors and increase market variety.