Market Report: Juicy Finds and Market Drives

BRIM JUICERY

For Ayonni Soumanou, founder of Brim Juicery, the journey into cold-pressed juices began with a simple realization: store-bought options are typically packed with sugar, preservatives and artificial ingredients. “I decided to start juicing at home, and it became a passion,” she says.

Still, finding a healthy drink option while out shopping or meeting friends remained a challenge. That gap in the market inspired Soumanou to follow her passion and launch Brim Juicery at the Crossroads Market. For the past three years, she’s stayed true to one promise: crafting drinks with pure, honest ingredients for those who appreciate the joy of juice.

What sets Brim Juicery apart is its commitment to freshness – both in its ingredients and production methods. Brim beverages are made on-site using two commercial cold-press juicers. All production takes place in the market from Friday to Sunday, ensuring the freshest product. The menu boasts a variety of options, from vibrant greens to citrus classics, but one particular standout is the summer-exclusive Rosa – a refreshing blend of watermelon, lime and mint. Yum!

Beyond a vibrant business, Soumanou cherishes the sense of community that comes with being part of a farmers’ market. “I’ve been shopping at Crossroads for years, and it’s all about the warm and welcoming atmosphere,” she says. “I could do my grocery shopping anywhere, but I have so many friends here.”

For Soumanou, Brim Juicery is about more than juice – local markets offer an opportunity to connect as community members, not just consumers.
“A farmers’ market isn’t just for buying groceries – it’s where people create lasting memories.”

So, grab a friend, get a Brim juice and make some memories this spring!

Brim Juicery | Crossroads Market | 1235 26th Ave. S.E. | 403.796.3668 | @BrimJuicery

MILLARVILLE SPRING MARKET

As the days grow longer and the snow finally melts in the foothills of the Rockies, the Millarville Spring Market marks the unofficial start of the season for Alberta’s farmers’ market enthusiasts.

Established in the early 2000s as a small community event, the market has grown into a major annual attraction, offering Calgarians a unique market experience just a short (and scenic!) drive from the city. Set against a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and open skies, the market’s rural charm has inspired many a “market road trip” tradition – an opportunity to escape to the countryside and explore the best of what our local producers have to offer.

This year’s Spring Market, set for May 10, promises an exciting lineup of vendors, live entertainment and local culinary delights. Chad Thomas, known on Instagram as @TheTipsyCook, is Millarville’s market manager and a passionate advocate for Alberta’s farmers’ markets. “The vendors are the heart of the Millarville Market,” he explains. “Each time you come, you’ll find something new.”

Beyond fresh foods and artisanal goods, visitors can look forward to live music, cooking classes and interactive workshops. To maintain authenticity, the market requires vendors to verify that their products are locally made, ensuring shoppers can trust that what they’re buying is truly homegrown.

This year, vendor applications have surged, reflecting a growing interest in strengthening the local economy and supporting Canadian-made products.
“It’s time to put our money where our mouth is,” as Thomas puts it. “We take pride in being a space where small businesses can grow. A lot of vendors get their start here, and it’s amazing to see their success.”

While we wait for the full summer market season to truly begin, the Millarville Spring Market offers the perfect warm-up for those eager to get a taste of local!

Millarville Spring Market | May 10, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | 306097 192nd St. W, Millarville | 403.931.3411