What’s up my Eaters!

I hope all is well.

Last time we were together, I told you all the reasons why shopping local should be a priority whenever possible. After that article, my business partner mentioned something that gave me pause—she appreciated the message, but she honestly didn’t know how to even start sourcing locally.

That stuck with me. I realized I’d taken for granted that this has always been a part of my life. So this week, I’m going to walk you through some practical, approachable ways to start shopping local—no matter your experience level.

What Do I Mean by “Local”?

When I say “shop local,” I mean supporting makers, producers, and farmers who are near you. That can mean within your city, your county, or even up to 200 miles away—a day’s drive from where you live or work.

Every region will have different options, but here in Fayette and Coweta counties, we’re fortunate. Everything I’m about to share is available to us, right here in our backyard.

Start Here: Familiar Stores That Are Making an Effort

Big Box Stores (Kroger, Aldi, Publix)

Even your large grocery chains are getting on board. Many now have sections labeled “local” to highlight products made nearby—think Georgia honey, jams, sauces, or pasture-raised eggs.

Specialty Markets (Fresh Market, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s)

These stores focus on sustainable and local sourcing. They often partner with local makers and small farms to stock their shelves. It’s a great place to ease into local buying while still shopping in a traditional grocery environment.

Boutique Markets (The General Store at Serenbe, 420 Glynn Street)

These small, independently owned shops are often themselves local small businesses. Their shelves tend to be thoughtfully curated with products that come from their own neighbors. For them, sourcing local is not just a business model—it’s a relationship.

My Personal Favorites

Farmers Markets

Locations like Peachtree City, Fayetteville, Senoia, Newnan, and Serenbe all have markets worth visiting.
These are more than just shopping trips—they’re opportunities to connect. You can talk directly with the person who grew your lettuce or baked your bread. It’s community-building at its best.

Buying Direct from Farmers (180 Degree Farm, Little Fox Farm, Riverview Farms)

This is where your food journey really changes. Buying direct often means lower prices (volume discounts), fresher products, and—most importantly—genuine relationships. You’ll start putting names and faces to your food, and that creates a powerful connection.

A Few Overlooked—but Awesome—Options

Farm Stands

These pop up along country roads and main routes alike. Many are self-serve and operate on the honor system. Grab a bag of tomatoes or a basket of peaches, leave your cash, and go. It’s a simple, beautiful way to support your community’s growers.

Co-Ops and Community Gardens

Some groups pool resources to buy in bulk directly from producers. Others grow food together and split the harvest. You can often find these communities on social media or neighborhood message boards.

Grow Your Own Food

Here in Georgia, we’re lucky to have long, productive growing seasons. Planting a garden—even just herbs or a few vegetables—can be life-changing. Not only do you feed yourself, but there’s something deeply fulfilling about giving food you grew to someone else. I still remember the joy on people’s faces when we’d send them home with bags from our family garden.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right mix of local sourcing for your household takes a little exploration, but the rewards are worth it. Do some discovery, try different options, ask lots of questions, and—most of all—have fun with it.

And if you ever want a great place to start, you know where to find me or my team:
Every Saturday at the Peachtree City Farmers Market—come say hi!

Eat well. Shop local. Make friends.